Abhyanga oil Massage: The Ultimate Self Care Tool
What is an Abhyanga self oil massage?
Abhyanga self oil massage is a simple yet potent practice that originates from the ancient system of Ayurveda (the sister science of yoga) - and it only takes five minutes! Abhyanga has been used for thousands of years to support overall balance and well-being of the mind, body and spirit.
How it works
Abhyanga is a technique of massaging oil or herbal infused oil into the skin before you shower or go to bed. The oil is absorbed into the skin and tissue, which helps to lubricate the nerves, joins, ligaments, and help move stagnation through the lymphatic system and the entire body. The fat from the oil nourishes and repairs our nerves, which can be very helpful for those who suffer from stress, anxiety and burnout (this can overwork our nerves).
Benefits of self oil massage
There are so many incredible benefits it’s hard to list them all, but here are some of the main ones:
supports the nervous system
nourishes the lymphatic system by moving lymph fluid
stimulate blood flow
supports anxiety, nervousness and exhaustion (is great for people recovering from burnout)
helps with aging
promotes healthy skin
helps prevent illness and dis-ease within the body
Note: avoid self oil massages during your menstrual cycle as the body is already overworking hard to detox. Instead, you can add oil to a bath or drink and herbal infusion as a tea.
The three types of doshas (mind-body types)
Vata
Air and Ether energy
Vata people typically have a more delicate constitution and a sensitive digestive system due to excess wind energy. They can have a more slender build and typically have dry skin and hair. When out of balance, Vata dominant people can feel anxious, nervous, in their head and ungrounded. Oiling the body can help to ground the energy as oil is a heavier substance, while also nourishing the tissue and nerves. This practice has personally worked wonders for my anxiety as I am very vata! Sesame oil or an herbal oil infused with lavender is supportive for this Dosha and can be done year round.
Pitta
Fire energy
Pitta energy has a go-go-go mentality and loves to always be busy. This energy can become imbalanced when there is not enough down time for self care and reflection. This can lead to aggressive behaviour and feelings of agitation or unease. Coconut oil is a great choice for this mind-body type as it is cooling in its energetic properties. I love rose oil for this dosha as well. This massage can be done in the fall and winter for pitta energy types.
Kapha
Earth energy
This energy is very grounded and can have a motherly, caring quality. When imbalanced, these people can feel lethargic and tend to have low energy and stagnation. Dry body massage is best for this energy type or using rosemary herbal oil. Rosemary is warming and supports circulation and blood flow.
How to perform a self oil massage
Ideally, an abhyanga massage would be done in the morning after you’ve drank water and moved the body to clear stagnation from the night before.
Choose your choice of oil. I personally love sesame oil (be sure to use organic and unrefined) as it the most nourishing for vata dosha. You can also use coconut oil, jojoba oil or olive oil. I like to make my own infused herbal rose oil that just feels so amazing on the skin. I will do another blog post on how to make your own herbal oil soon!
Start from the feet and work your way up the body with strokes towards the heart. Make sure you have an old towel and wash cloth available, it can sometimes get messy!
Rub the oil together in your hands and start to massage the feet, calves, thighs, hips, torso, chest, arms and hands all the way up to your neck and even your face. I like to rub some into my hair as well. Take your time, be present with your body.
You can also add in some positive body affirmations as you rub the oil into your body: I love you. You are strong. Thank you for all that you do for me.
Once complete, wait a few minutes then hop into the shower with your washcloth and wash off (the oil stains so be sure to use one you don’t care about). This sounds counter intuitive to wash the oil off, but the steam and heat from the water helps to open up the pores and allows the oil to be absorbed deeper into the tissue and body. Alternatively you can put the oil on before bed.
Pat your skin dry and enjoy! Your skin will feel so soft and you will feel a deep sense of peace from taking a few moments to care for your body, mind and spirit.
It is recommended to do this practice daily for the best results. For more info on how to do an abhyanga massage check out this blog.
Give it a try! I’d love to hear how it goes and how you feel after.
Are you looking to dive deeper into connecting with your body and intuition?
I currently offer 60-min intuitive health coaching sessions and 1-on-1 coaching programs to help you understand the language of your body on a deeper level so you can feel healthy, balanced and aligned. Check out my health coaching to learn more!
Sending you so much love,
Gill
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