Happy Ayurveda Day! Ayurveda day is observed on Dhanwantri Jayanti with the aim of creating awareness on the significance of Ayurvedic principles on physical and spiritual health. For the last year on our blog, we have shared several tips on how to incorporate various Ayurvedic practices to live happier and healthier lives!
What is Ayurveda?
In Ayurveda, perfect health is defined as "a balance between body, mind, spirit, and social well-being." Fundamental principles include the belief that a deep connection exists between the self and the environment. Balanced connectivity between the self, others, the environment and the universe is what ensures good health. We retain this balance through our choices surrounding diet, exercise, personal relationships, profession and overall mindset. It’s a good reminder to know that we have power over our health when we make choices that promote connectivity and harmony. For me, I learned Ayurveda from my father who would share ‘secrets’ on the right foods to eat to promote digestion, what herbs and powder mixtures would help with my skin or hair and what yoga/meditation practices would aid in spiritual healing.
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga in Ayurveda can be enjoyed as a self-massage that incorporates the use of warm oil to promote overall health and well-being.
What are some benefits of Abhyanga?
Improves circulation and muscle tone
Promotes detoxification
Promotes healthy and lustrous hair
Promotes relaxation and deep sleep
Prepares the body for yoga
Improve overall health
How to perform Abhyanga massage:
Using an oil of your choice (see below for suggestions), place into a small bowl, cup, or bottle and heat by placing over a pot of hot water.
Once the oil is warm, apply the oil in a circular motion over your entire body including the scalp, face, ears and feet. Emphasize areas of your choice.
The technique here is to use slow, circular strokes in a clockwise fashion. Don’t be afraid to apply some pressure especially on areas that feel tight or notched.
Allow the oil to soak in your skin for about 10-20 minutes after the massage session.
Take a warm bath or shower with a gentle cleanser to remove the oil. If applying to the scalp, you might want to wash with a shampoo twice to make sure the oil does not remain stuck to the roots of your hair.
While Abhyanga can be done anytime of the day, an ideal routine would incorporate the massage in the morning as you prepare for the day
Best Oils to Use (Based on your body type)
Great oils to use for Abhyanga are based on your body type:
Vata: If you tend to have dry skin (like me) I would suggest using oils such as almond, sesame or avocado oil.
Pitta: If you have sensitive skin, apply neutral oils such as sunflower or ghee
Kapha: If you skin tends to be oily, use a lighter oil such as flax-seed, sweet almond or safflower.
You can also infuse your oil with herbs in order to provide added benefits, examples of popular herbs to infuse with include turmeric, basil, lotus root, and cloves.