What is the Abhyanga Massage (Ayurvedic Massage)?

Ayurveda focuses on maintaining health through diet and natural practices like massages. Oil baths and massages are immensely beneficial for the human body and, thus, an integral part of Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic art of massaging the body with medicated and healing oils is called Abhyanga.

This Ayurvedic oil massage is supposed to be a part of one’s daily self-care, helping to improve many aspects of your health. Read on to know all the details related to this Ayurvedic therapy.

Abhyanga massage is a full-body oil massage. It follows the principles of Ayurvedic treatment and utilises herbal and medicated oils. In fact, the main component of this massage is oil. The combination of massage strokes and herbal oils improves the overall well-being of an individual.

Abhyanga massage is generally performed by qualified Ayurvedic massage therapists. However, in the busy schedules of the twenty-first century, it is not always possible to get an Abhyanga massage done by a specialist. In such cases, one can even perform this therapy by himself/herself.

Abhyanga massage is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic therapy, offering numerous health benefits through its deeply restorative techniques. Listed below are the benefits of getting an Abhyanga massage:

• This Ayurvedic massage nourishes and heals the entire body. It lessens the effects of ageing.
• It helps in removing toxins from the body.
• Abhyanga massage improves blood circulation and prevents wrinkles.
• It improves one’s stamina.
• This oil massage may improve vision.
• It makes the muscles vigorous and imparts firmness to the limbs.
• Having this massage helps an individual sleep well.
• The full-body Abhyanga massage facilitates the growth of thick and glossy hair.
• It nourishes, softens and smoothes skin.
• This massage provides lubrication to the joints.
• Abhyanga massage reduces stress.
• The massage increases energy and improves alertness.
• It is said to help with lymphatic drainage.
• It can bolster the immune system, aiding in the prevention of illness.
• Promotes a healthy, radiant appearance.
• Helps alleviate muscle stiffness and soreness
• Helps in balancing the body's doshas, especially Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
• Aids in improving digestive function and relieving constipation.

Given below are details you should know about the Abhyanga routine, and requisite oils are given below.

1. Oils

2. Routine

Following a consistent routine for Abhyanga massage is important to ensure maximum benefit and effectiveness. Given below is the Abhyanga massage routine:

One can use the oil by itself or blend it with a different oil. Additionally, one can infuse herbs into the carrier oil. Herb-infused oils carry extra benefits, as the properties of the herbs are transferred to the oil, offering a range of advantages for skin and overall health.

Some of the common herbs used in oils for Abhyanga massages are listed below:

• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, turmeric can help reduce joint pain and improve skin health.
• Lotus Root: Lotus root is used for its cooling and soothing effects, helping to calm irritated skin and improve circulation.
• Basil: With its antiseptic and rejuvenating qualities, it helps reduce stress and support the immune system.
• Cloves: Cloves have analgesic and antiseptic properties, which can aid in relieving muscle pain and promoting overall wellness.
• Water Hyssop: Water Hyssop is renowned for its calming effects, which can assist in reducing anxiety and promoting mental clarity.

For optimal potency and effectiveness, it’s a must to properly infuse herbs into a carrier oil. Following are the steps to infuse herbs into a carrier oil solution:

Step 1: Heat a Cup of Carrier Oil

Begin by heating a cup of carrier oil in a pan over low heat. This can be any carrier oil such as coconut, olive, or almond oil. Avoid overheating, as excessive heat can degrade the oil and the herbs.

Step 2: Add Herbs of Your Choice and Mix

Add your selected herbs to the pan once the oil is warm. Stir the herbs gently to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the oil. Remove the pan from the oven to prevent further cooking of the herbs.

Step 3: Keep it Aside for 24 Hours

Allow the herb-oil mixture to sit and infuse for 24 to 48 hours. This period allows the herbs to release their beneficial compounds into the oil. You can let it steep up to a week for a more intense infusion.

Step 4: Strain Herbs and Store the Oil

After the infusion period, strain the herbs from the oil using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Make sure to press the herbs to extract as much oil as possible. Transfer the infused oil into an airtight container.

The steps to follow for Abhyanga massage are given below. Please note that one can follow these steps for a self-massage at home as well:

• Step 1: Choose the oil based on your dosha and heat it. Test the temperature. It shouldn’t be very hot.
• Step 2: If you have opted for a self-massage at home, sit or stand at your convenience in a comfortably warm room. Alternatively, do as the practitioner asks.
• Step 3: Apply the chosen oil first to the crown of the head. Gradually work outward from there with circular strokes. Massage the scalp for a couple of minutes.
• Step 4: Proceed to massage your forehead, cheeks, temples and jaws in a circular motion. Don’t forget to massage the ears, especially the earlobes. Ensure that the massage strokes move in an upward direction.
• Step 5: Massage the arms and legs with long strokes and joints and knees with circular strokes. Ensure that the massage strokes are in the direction of the heart.
• Step 6: Use broad, clockwise and circular motions to massage the abdomen and chest. While massaging the abdomen, move up first to the right side and then to the left.
• Step 7: Massage the feet for a few minutes.
• Step 8: Leave the oil on your body for 5 – 15 minutes. The body will soak in and absorb the beneficial properties of the oil.
• Step 9: Shower or go for a warm bath with a bar of mild soap, and afterwards, gently towel dry.

Here are various approaches to Abhyanga massage to help you choose the most suitable option. Listed below are the different types of Abhyanga massage:

1. Sarvanga Abhyanga - Full-body Ayurvedic Oil Massage

This full-body massage uses warm herbal oil applied systematically across the entire body to promote overall wellness. It enhances relaxation, nourishes the skin, and balances bodily functions. Ideal for comprehensive rejuvenation and detoxification.

Benefits:

• Nourishes and rejuvenates the entire body.
• Improves circulation and detoxifies the body.
• Enhances skin texture and tone.
• Promotes deep relaxation and stress relief.

How to Do:

Conducted by a trained therapist, the massage involves systematic strokes from head to toe. It is recommended for regular maintenance of health and well-being.

2. Marma Massage - Pressure Point Massage

Marma massage deals with certain points or marmas where the energies are located and encourages them to circulate. Focusing on these active areas relaxes the tension points and restores health. It is useful in getting rid of distress and boosting energy levels.

Benefits:

• Relieves tension and pain from specific areas.
• Enhances energy flow and balances doshas.
• Improves circulation and detoxification.
• Promotes mental clarity and emotional stability.

How to Do:

This massage method is done through a generalised motion with gentle to moderate pressure, concentrating on certain marmas. It is one of the therapeutic applications.

3. Shiro Abhyanga - Ayurvedic Head Massage

Shiro Abhyanga involves massage of the head, neck, and shoulders along with warm oil application to the scalp for relief to the brain. This massage aims to relieve the frayed nerve endings and get clarity of thought. It reduces stress and improves mental health.

Benefits:

• Reduces stress and anxiety.
• Improves mental clarity and concentration.
• Nourishes hair and promotes a healthy scalp.
• Relieves tension headaches and improves sleep quality.

How to Do:

When the recipient is seated or lying down, warm oil is poured over and massaged into the head and hair. It is useful in reducing stress and helps maintain a balanced lifestyle.

4. Pada Massage - Ayurvedic Foot Massage

Pada massage focuses on the feet. To this end, warm oil and various techniques are used for relaxation and well-being. This also aims at improving blood circulation and reducing soreness of the feet. This type of massage is especially aimed at relieving stress.

Benefits:

• Improves circulation and reduces foot pain.
• Relieves stress and promotes deep relaxation.
• Stimulates reflex points corresponding to various organs and systems.
• Enhances overall balance and grounding.

How to Do:

While the recipient is seated or reclined, the feet will be kneaded using warm oil and methods appropriate for this region. It is best for stress reduction and promotion of relaxation after busy times.

Timing in Abhyanga massage can significantly enhance its benefits. The following are the best times to consider it for your day-to-day plan.

1. Early Morning

It is better done before breakfast because this lets our bodies begin the day refreshed and revitalised, ensuring maximum absorption of the benefits.

2. Before Eating

Performing Abhyanga on an empty stomach allows oil to be absorbed through the skin and does not interfere with digestion.

3. Before Exercise

Covering yourself with oil just before you hit the gym helps increase muscle and joint flexibility and improve blood flow.

4. On a Relaxed Schedule

You should choose when to relax and not hurry. This will allow you to enjoy all the benefits of the massage without any disturbances.

Abhyanga massage is generally beneficial, but certain individuals should avoid or approach it cautiously. Here are the groups who should avoid Abhyanga massage:

1. Pregnant Women

Intense stimulation and the use of oils may not be suitable during pregnancy; check with your healthcare provider.

2. People with Severe Skin Conditions

This treatment is advised against by such individuals because it may worsen their condition.

3. Individuals with Acute Infections or Fever

It is advisable to avoid this therapy as it can worsen infections and fever.

4. People with Recent Surgeries or Injuries

Complications arising from recent wounds, surgeries, or injuries may hinder one from undergoing a massage.

5. Individuals with Certain Heart Conditions

Individuals with specific heart conditions must consult their doctor before getting the massage.

6. People Suffering From Severe Edema

Excessive fluid retention can be aggravated by a massage; therefore, it should not be used in such situations.

7. Those Undergoing Detoxification

If someone is going through an intense detox therapy process, it is better to avoid Abhyanga as it can affect the detoxification process.

Enumerated below are some essential points that one should keep in mind for Abhyanga self-massage:

• The oil needs to be warm, but it should not be very hot.
• One can use an electric oil warmer to heat the oil.
• Devote at least a few minutes for massaging each body part.
• After the massage, walk carefully because the oil might make one slip.
• After showering, one should use a clean towel.
• One should opt for regular Abhyanga massages for a good result.

In conclusion, this blog has explained all the important details related to Abhyanga massage. If done regularly, this Ayurvedic massage provides an individual with long-lasting health benefits. The steps are not difficult. One can easily do a self-massage at home at their convenience. You can enjoy improved circulation, reduced stress, and enhanced overall well-being with consistent practice.