Abhyanga, oil massage, is an essential component of an ayurvedic daily routine in the cold seasons of autumn, winter and early spring. The warmed sesame oil relaxes the muscles, calms the nervous system and nourishes the largest organ of the body—the skin! The sanskrit word sneha translates as both “oil” and “love.” So, oiling the skin regularly can impart the warmth and stability of feeling loved. This simple 15 minute addition to your bathing routine has immediate and cumulative benefits. Even if you can do abhyanga once or twice a week you will immediately notice the benefits of feeling more relaxed in your body and resilient to stress. This nurturing practice is simple and transformative. Enjoy!
Traditional Benefits:
- Supports better sleep
- Decreases anxiety
- Nourishes and strengthens the whole body
- Strengthens resilience to stress
- Enhances immunity
- Decreases the drying effects of aging
- Increases longevity
- Stimulates the internal organs and circulation
- Detoxifying tissue layers
- Anti-inflammatory effect on joints
How to do Abhyanga:
- Start with Organic raw sesame oil (not toasted!). Pour about a ½ cup of sesame oil in small (4oz-8 oz) plastic container with squirt top. Sesame oil is medicinal for dry skin, tight muscles and increased vata. It is rich in vitamins A, B, E as well as the minerals iron, calcium, magnesium. A person with increased pitta may benefit from a lighter and cooling oil like coconut or sunflower. Those with increased kapha may use sesame oil (sparingly), corn oil or massage without oil. A practitioner can customize an herbal infused and aromatic oil specfic for your constitution.
- Submerge plastic container in mug of hot water to gently warm the oil.
- Create a warm and comfortable space in your bathroom.
- Massage warm oil from soles of feet to head. Massage as much of your back and spine as is possible.; With loving attention, massage in circular motions for joints, abdomen and chest. For arms and legs use long patient strokes. You don’t have to do your face if you have sensitive skin and you can skip your head if you don’t want to get your hair oily. It is soothing and beneficial to massage the top of the head with warm oil, if this appeals to you.
- Allow this to be an unhurried, restorative time. You can stretch and breath and enjoy the quiet or listen to soothing music.
- After your body is coated lightly with oil, return to sore or stiff joints or body parts that could benefit from more attention. Then, bathe or shower.
- There is no need to soap up skin (just soap up private areas.) Allow the hot water and steam to penetrate the oil into your body. Towel dry.
- Ayurvedic texts caution pregnant women to avoid Abhyanga.
