Abhyanga is a types of massage that uses oil, which is often warmed between the hands before application and can be practiced on yourself or received as therapy. Abhayanga is derived from the Sanskrit words abhi, meaning “into” or “glow,” and anga meaning “limb”. It greatly benefits the body, mind, skin, and immune system. From massaging your joints and muscles for improved movement, it also benefits in reducing stress, increasing sleep, and improving general health.
The oil used for Abhyanga Ayurvedic oil massage is medicinal. They can be either castor oil, mustard oil, or any other oil. The nutrients that these oils provide are extremely beneficial to the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha constitutions of your body. There are several abhyanga massage techniques and procedures involved in satisfying massage therapy.
Types of Abhyanga in Ayurveda
Abhyanga massage can involve a variety of massage techniques. This classification is depending on which body part is being massaged. Let us now take a brief look at the many Abhyanga massages that exist. Abhyanga is classified into the following types:
Sarvanga Abhyanga:
This is a full-body massage that provides advantages to the complete body.
Shiro Abhyanga:
This massage focuses on the head. It promotes relaxation and relieves headaches and sinus problems.
Ekanga Abhyanga:
This massage targets certain areas of the body to reduce pain or stiffness.
Pada Abhyanga:
This is a foot massage for the soles and toes. It can help relieve painful feet and other foot ailments. Newborn massage is an oil massage performed on newborn babies. This can assist them to improve their overall health while also nourishing their skin.
Postnatal massage:
Abhyanga massage is performed on ladies who have recently given birth. The massage helps to recover health, which is compromised after childbirth. It helps to reduce excess Vata Dosha. This massage strengthens muscles and restores skin firmness.
Abhyanga massage is often performed by a skilled Ayurvedic masseuse. This helps to achieve the finest results. Abhyanga can also be practiced at home as a self-massage. This can be done regularly to improve one's overall health. To reap the full advantages of Abhyanga, schedule regular massages at an Ayurvedic spa.
Abhyanga Benefits
The following are some of the benefits that Abhyanga massage offers.
- Reduces tension.
- Anti-aging for the skin, as it stimulates blood flow and reduces wrinkles.
- Lubrication of Joints
- Better and deeper sleep at night.
- Balances metabolism and digestive fire.
- reduces stiffness in the muscles
- Promotes blood circulation.
- It nourishes and treats dry, itchy skin, eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders.
How to do Abhyanga at home
Getting an abhyanga massage from a qualified massage therapist can be a very soothing experience. However, abhyanga can also be done at home to massage oneself. This allows you to have the massage whenever it is convenient for you.
The following is the general procedure for an abhyanga self-massage at home:
- Pour 1/2 cup oil into a clean, empty bottle. Place the bottle in a pot of hot water until the oil is warmed.
- Apply the oil all over your body, including the top of your head. Beginning at the top of the head, massage the oil into your scalp in circular motions.
- Continue to the forehead, ears, cheeks, and jaws.
- Massage your chest and abdomen with clockwise and circular movements. Massage your trunk inward along your ribcage.
- Continue with your back and buttocks. Massage your arms and legs in long, straight strokes.
- Use circular motions on your joints.
- Massage your feet, particularly the toes, and your soles.
- Relax for 10 minutes to allow the oil to seep into your skin.
- Have a warm bath or shower.
- To eliminate oil, use a mild cleaner.
Tips for home Abhyanga Massage or self-massage
The tips below can help you prepare for Abhyanga:
- The oil used should be warm but not hot.
- Dip your fingers into the oil and gently massage particular body regions. The chest, neck, abdomen, eyes, and face should all be gently rubbed. Massage the arms and legs with long strokes.
- The joints should be rubbed in circular motions.
- Abdominal massage should be directed toward the big intestine.
- A warm bath should be taken after a 15-minute interval.
Who should avoid Abhyanga?
Oil self-massage or Abhyanga is safe for most people, and it is used by both adults and children in India. Of course, if self-massage causes any pain, you should avoid such regions. You may control the pressure and regions of concentration by giving yourself a mild stroking massage first.
How to make herb-infused oil for Abhyanga
Abhyanga is typically performed with coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, lavender oil, peppermint oil, or eucalyptus oil, with additional added ingredients.
One approach is to infuse your oil with herbs. Herb-infused oils are supposed to offer additional advantages. Turmeric, lotus root, basil, cloves, and sesame are some of the popular herbs utilized in abhyanga oils.
To make your own infused oil, you should do the following:
- Warm 1 cup of any oil in a small pot.
- Add the herbs. Combine and remove from the heat.
- Cover the pan. Let it sit for 24 hours.
- Strain the herbs using a muslin cloth.
- Store in an airtight container.
The takeaway
Abhyanga, an Ayurvedic oil massage, offers extensive benefits such as improved skin health, stress reduction, and enhanced sleep. This traditional practice is also adaptable for self-application or professional therapy and uses specific techniques and warm medicinal oils to support physical and mental well-being. This makes it a valuable addition to a holistic health routine.