Introduction

Ayurvedic self-massage or self-anointing is a great way to express self-love as we cocoon ourselves in a feeling of comfort from head to toe with warm herbal oils. This practice is known as Abhyanga massage and when done daily helps to restore dosha balance while promoting longevity.

Ayurveda: Nourishing your mind, body and spirit

Ayurveda is an ancient natural system of medicine or life science, deriving its name from the Sanskrit words Ayu meaning life and veda which means science or knowledge, basically translating to mean knowledge of life. Originating from India with a 5000 year history, Ayurveda while maintaining it core roots has proved itself versatile and adaptable to today’s lifestyles.

It has as a whole, immense benefits on the human body and mind because it encourages you to truly listen to yourself and eat, drink and act to nourish your mind, body and spirit. It promotes eating according to your body type as well as easy to adopt lifestyle habits for a positive change.

Importance of massages in Ayurvedic routines

In ayurveda massages and self-massages bring back balance by increasing circulation. This in turn stimulates optimum organ function which helps your body detox. It is also believed to slow aging and as a result of the ayurvedic oil used nourishes and stimulates your skin for a healthy glow.

What is an Ayurvedic self-massage?

Called Abhyanga this massage is done with warm coconut oil, sesame oil, sunflower oil or abhyanga oil. Using a circular motion and long strokes you apply the oil on the entire body, from your scalp to the soles of your feet.

Benefits of Ayurvedic self-massage

The benefits of abhyanga are many starting from the fact that is a wonderful form of self-care as you take the time to thank your body for all it does for you. The warm herbal oil which you gently massage into your skin with circular strokes not only feels good, but it promotes blood circulation as well.

It helps remove impurities from the body.

The ritual of abhyanga is a great stress reliever as the action and feelings both help you feel better.

The good circulation, the stress relief all aid to improve your mood. A good mood is vital for your overall wellbeing.

It nourishes the entire body which decreases the effects of aging.

It tones the muscles and tissues and lubricates the joints.

It stimulates the internal organs

What do you need to carry out an Ayurvedic self-massage?

As this is a time of self-care find a quiet private space in which you can enjoy your self-massage without fear of interruption. As it can get messy you will need a spot such as a bathtub or a soft towel on a tiled floor where the mess can be easily cleaned up once done.

Choose oils and herbs that appeal to you and have them in an easy to access container.

How do you carry out an ayurvedic self-massage?

You can consult an ayurvedic practitioner to find out about the best types of oils and herbs to use. Once you have selected ones you want to use you should warm your oil till it is at a comfortable temperature to apply on your skin. Do not make it too hot.

Apply oil to your scalp and gently work your way down using circular movements to massage the oil into your skin. Focus on the marma points as well. It is best if you first learn the correct techniques from an ayurvedic massage therapist, so you know the best ways to proceed once you start practicing abhyanga.

Work your way all the way downwards to your feet and soles, till your whole body is covered in oil. The longer you wait with the warm oil on your body the better it can be absorbed by your skin. Remember to very cautious during this time as the oil is slippery. Do not do abhyanga right after eating.

Conclusion

The benefits of regular abhyanga are many, from providing a calming time of self-care to actual mental and physical benefits. Aim to include an abhyanga massage two to three times a week for maximum benefits. Try an ayurvedic self-massage and feel your body and mind respond in gratitude to the welcome self-care.