Dry skin is our customers' #1 issue all year long. We want to provide an effective ritual that is relaxing and will rejuvenate your skin. Abhyanga, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, offers a holistic approach to self-care through the power of self-massage. Keep reading to learn what abhyanga is, how to perform it, and the incredible benefits it can bring to your life.
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is a Sanskrit term that translates to "oil massage." It is an integral part of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. Abhyanga involves the application of warm herbal oils on the body in a specific manner to promote balance and harmony within the mind, body, and spirit.
How to Perform Abhyanga:
To perform abhyanga, follow these simple steps:
1. Choose the Right Oil:
- Select a high-quality oil suitable for your dosha (Ayurvedic body type).
- Popular choices include sesame oil, coconut oil, and almond oil.
2. Set the Mood:
- Find a warm, quiet, and comfortable space.
- Dim the lights and play soothing music if desired.
3. Warm the Oil:
- Place the oil in a container and warm it by immersing the container in hot water.
- Ensure the oil is comfortably warm, but not too hot.
4. Begin the Massage:
- Start at the scalp and gently massage the oil into the hair and scalp.
- Gradually move to the face, ears, neck, and shoulders, using gentle circular motions.
5. Move to the Limbs:
- Massage the oil onto the arms and hands, using long strokes along the bones.
- Move down to the legs and feet, using similar long strokes.
6. Focus on the Abdomen and Chest:
- Apply the oil on the abdomen in clockwise circular motions, following the path of the large intestine.
- Massage the oil on the chest using gentle, upward strokes.
7. Rest and Relax:
- Allow the oil to penetrate the skin for 10-20 minutes.
- Consider wrapping yourself in a warm towel or robe during this time.
8. Rinse or Shower:
- After the specified resting period, rinse off the excess oil in a warm shower.
- Pat yourself dry with a towel, leaving a thin layer of oil on your skin.
Benefits of Abhyanga:
Regular practice of abhyanga can offer numerous benefits:
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is a Sanskrit term that translates to "oil massage." It is an integral part of Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. Abhyanga involves the application of warm herbal oils on the body in a specific manner to promote balance and harmony within the mind, body, and spirit.
How to Perform Abhyanga:
To perform abhyanga, follow these simple steps:
1. Choose the Right Oil:
- Select a high-quality oil suitable for your dosha (Ayurvedic body type).
- Popular choices include sesame oil, coconut oil, and almond oil.
2. Set the Mood:
- Find a warm, quiet, and comfortable space.
- Dim the lights and play soothing music if desired.
3. Warm the Oil:
- Place the oil in a container and warm it by immersing the container in hot water.
- Ensure the oil is comfortably warm, but not too hot.
4. Begin the Massage:
- Start at the scalp and gently massage the oil into the hair and scalp.
- Gradually move to the face, ears, neck, and shoulders, using gentle circular motions.
5. Move to the Limbs:
- Massage the oil onto the arms and hands, using long strokes along the bones.
- Move down to the legs and feet, using similar long strokes.
6. Focus on the Abdomen and Chest:
- Apply the oil on the abdomen in clockwise circular motions, following the path of the large intestine.
- Massage the oil on the chest using gentle, upward strokes.
7. Rest and Relax:
- Allow the oil to penetrate the skin for 10-20 minutes.
- Consider wrapping yourself in a warm towel or robe during this time.
8. Rinse or Shower:
- After the specified resting period, rinse off the excess oil in a warm shower.
- Pat yourself dry with a towel, leaving a thin layer of oil on your skin.
Benefits of Abhyanga:
Regular practice of abhyanga can offer numerous benefits:
- Nourishes the Skin: Abhyanga moisturizes and rejuvenates the skin, promoting a healthy glow and combating dryness.
- Relieves Stress and Anxiety: The rhythmic strokes and warm oil help calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
- Enhances Circulation: Massaging improves blood circulation, supporting the delivery of nutrients and removal of toxins.
- Promotes Sound Sleep: Abhyanga before bed relaxes the mind, preparing it for a restful and rejuvenating sleep.
- Supports Joint Health: The lubricating effect of the oil massage helps maintain joint mobility and alleviate stiffness.
- Boosts Immunity: Abhyanga stimulates lymphatic flow, aiding in the removal of toxins and boosting the immune system.