Abhyanga, the ayurvedic oil massage is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system for overall health and well-being. It is nourishing, pacifies the doshas, relieves fatigue, provides stamina, enhances the complexion and the lustre of the skin, promotes longevity and nourishes all parts of the body.
Steps to Follow for Self-Massage:
- Warm ¼ cup of your preferred massage oil (black sesame oil is balancing for all doshas). Test the temperature by putting a drop on your inner wrist, oil should be comfortably warm and not hot
- Lay a towel down and sit or stand comfortably in a warm room
- Apply oil first to the crown of your head and work slowly out from there in circular strokes—spend a couple of minutes massaging your entire scalp
- Face: Massage in circular motion on your forehead, temples, cheeks, and jaws (always moving in an upward movement). Be sure to massage your ears, especially your ear-lobes—home to essential marma points and nerve endings
- Use long strokes on the limbs and circular strokes on the joints. Always massage toward the direction of your heart
- Massage the abdomen and chest in broad, clockwise, circular motions. On the abdomen, follow the path of the large intestine, moving up on the right side of the abdomen, then across, then down on the left side
- Finish the massage by spending at least a couple of minutes massaging your feet. Feet are a very important part of the body with the nerve endings of essential organs and vital marma points
- Sit with the oil for 5-15 minutes if possible so that the oil can absorb and penetrate into the deeper layers of the body
- Enjoy a warm bath or shower, towel dry gently. Blot the towel on your body instead of rubbing vigorously
- Enjoy the feeling of having nourished your body, mind, and spirit and carry that with you throughout your day
