Abhyanga massage therapy

The Ayurvedic abhyanga, or oil massage, is one of the most important aspects of the daily routine. Like Swedna, Abhyanga is also a very important part of panchakarma practice. In this blog, we shall discuss the benefits of Abhyanga and how you can perform it at home. Abhyanga promotes healing through touch as a sense of touch promotes emotional and psychological healing. Abhyanga has healing benefits to the endocrine system and nervous system. Abhyanga has several benefits like improving circulation, nourishes tissues, improves skin health, moisture, and luster, aids detoxification, improves immunity, lubricates joints and tissues, and improves sleep. It also promotes lymphatic drainage and reduces muscle stiffness.

Instructions for a performing Abhyanga

Select Dosha appropriate oil. People who have out of balance Vata Dosha or who have Vata Dosha as their dominant dosha should use heavy warm oils like sesame or almond and they require a light touch. People with access to Pitta Dosha or with Pitta dosha predominance will benefit from deep tissue massage with colling oils such as coconut, sunflower, or olive. People with Kapha Dosha predominance or with access Kapha will benefit from a stimulating, vigorous massage with lighter oils such as safflower or sunflower, or warmer oils like mustard or almond.

Gently heat a small quantity of oil. The best place to perform your massage is your bathroom. You might want to cover the floor with a large towel. While massaging your body show love and respect for your body. Your state of mind is equally important as the technique. A loving touch will promote healing and relaxation.

Start with the scalp by pouring a tablespoon of warm oil onto your scalp and massage it gently in circular motions with fingertips as if you are shampooing your hair.

Next, with light gentle strokes, apply the oil to your forehead, cheeks, and chin in a circular and upward motion. Massage the back of your ears and temples and then apply a little more oil to your hands and massage the front and back of your neck.

Then massage your arms, using a circular motion at the shoulders and elbows, and long, back-and-forth motions on the upper arms and forearms. Massage using large, gentle circular motions on your chest, stomach, and lower abdomen while using a straight up-and-down motion over the breastbone. Apply oil in your palms and gently massage your back and spine the best you can.

Next, vigorously massage your legs just like you did your arms, using circular motions at the ankles and knees, back-and-forth motions on the long parts. With the remaining bit of oil, vigorously massage your feet. Pay extra attention to your toes. Sit quietly for a few moments to let the oil soak into your body.

It is important that you wait for 20-25 minutes after you finish your massage before you take a shower or bath. After that rinse your body with warm water and a mild soap which will help you maintain a light film of oil.

Mini Massage 

Sometimes you might not have time to do a full-body massage, you can perform a mini massage. Keep in mind, something is better than nothing. In the same manner, a short one is still much better than none at all. When you lack time to perform full body massage, focus on the head and feet as they are the most important parts of the body. The mini-massage requires only about two tablespoons of oil.

Rub one tablespoon of warm oil into your scalp, your forehead your temples, and then lightly rub your ears. Spend a few moments massaging the back and front of your neck.

With the second tablespoon of oil, massage both feet using the flats of your hands and then massage your toes with your fingertips. Lastly, vigorously massage the soles of your feet with brisk back-and-forth motions of the palms.