Abhyanga is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system for overall health and well-being. Traditional Ayurvedic texts teach:
"Give yourself a full-body oil massage on a daily basis. It is nourishing; pacifies the doshas; relieves fatigue; provides stamina, pleasure and perfect sleep; enhances the complexion and the luster of the skin; promotes longevity; and nourishes all parts of the body."
Other benefits include:
Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings
Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology
Calming for the nerves
Lubrication of the joints
Increased mental alertness
Improved elimination of impurities from the body
Softer, smoother skin
Increased levels of stamina through the day
Better, deeper sleep at night
To perform abhyanga;
Use comfortably warm massage oil. (You can set the bottle in hot water for a few minutes to warm the oil)
Apply the warm oil over the entire body
Massage the entire body, applying even pressure with the whole hand — palm and fingers.
Begin at the scalp firmly massaging the whole head. Work lightly over the face, around the sinuses and down the sides of the nose.
Use more oil and spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and along the base of the fingernails.
Use circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints, and long strokes on straight areas such as your arms and legs, working from the outer extremities towards the heart.
Use a circular motion on the belly, following the intestines up on the right side, across and down the left side.
Wipe off excess oil (especially the soles of the feet to avoid slipping) with a designated oil towel and take a warm shower.
Use soap only where necessary and allow the warm water to drive the oil deeper on the rest of the body.
Enjoy the feeling of having nourished your body, mind, and spirit and carry that with you throughout your day.
Lisa Scarborough
Ayurvedic Health Counselor at The Beauty of Ayurveda
Blending more than 35 years of experience in the health and beauty industry with a deep passion for the profound healing science of Ayurveda, Lisa finds joy in helping others to develop a personal wellness plan using individual consultation, Ayurvedic body therapies and private yoga sessions. Lisa believes that beauty is revealed when one aligns her true self with the wisdom of Mother Nature.
Interested in a free Ayurveda overview? Contact Lisa at lmscarborough1@gmail.com to schedule a free 30 minute consultation.