Abhyanga - Full Body Oil Massage

Deeply relaxing and rejuvenating, Ayurvedic oil massage involves the application and massage of warm, herb-infused, dosha-specific oil all over the body. Long, rhythmic, sweeping massage strokes on the limbs and circular strokes on the joints create heat to enable deeper absorption of the oil. The warm oil deeply penetrates the skin to loosen physical, mental and spiritual ama (toxins) at a cellular level. Abhyanga offers multiple health benefits. It nourishes tissues, improves circulation, cleanses the skin and improves overall health. It balances all doshas but particularly vata. The whole experience calms the nervous system and elicits a deep sense of grounding and relaxation.

MORE INFORMATION

The Sanskrit word Abhyanga comes from the roots ‘Abhi’ (into/glow) and ‘Anga’ (limb) and means to massage the body's limbs / glowing body.

Dis-ease is caused by a build-up of toxins in the body. Abhyanga helps to balance the Doshas and expel toxins from the body. The warm oil penetrates through the skin and softens and loosens toxins stored in our joints, muscles, and organs. Diluted toxins and excess doshas that are loosened through massage travel via the circulatory system to the GI tract, where they are released from the body.

Abhyanga also has a profound effect on the nervous system. Rhythmical massage soothes and calms the nervous system creating a calming, healing and rejuvenating effect.

Abhyanga is one of the Ayurvedic Dinacharya methods (daily practices) recommended for maintaining optimal health. It is also used as a Purvakarma (preparatory treatment) for ayurvedic Panchakarma.

BENEFITS

• Detoxification at all physical, mental and emotional levels

• Remove excess toxins (ama)

• Improve blood circulation

• Enhance immunity

• Ground and relax the nervous system, calms anxiety, relieves stress

• Aids digestion, stimulates the internal organs of the body

• Increase longevity while decreasing the effects of aging

• Nourish the body, tone the skin, and bring a natural glow

• Muscle and joint pain relief

Abhyanga pairs well with Mukha abhyanga (face massage), Shiro Abhyanga (head massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring head treatment), Hrid Basti (Heart treatment) or any pain management therapy.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Abhyanga Oil Massage is not recommended under the following conditions:

• Indigestion, low Agni (digestive power)

• Excessive accumulation of Ama (toxins) in the body.

• Acute fever, cold, cough, mucous problems

• Inflammations, high blood pressure

• Bleeding wounds, burns, open or unhealed surgical wounds and scars

• Acute skin conditions

• Menstruation days, if very heavy

• First three months of pregnancy

TREATMENT GUIDELINES

• The day before the treatment it is recommended to stick to a light diet. Examples include soups, boiled or steamed vegetables with rice or some grains and dishes that are vegetarian or contain white meat or fish. Red meat should be avoided.

• The treatment should not take place immediately after a meal because the treatment oil must also be internally digested, and this can cause a heavy feeling. It is therefore recommended not to eat 2 hours before the start of treatment.

• It is recommended not to eat cold or heavy food before and after the treatment.

• A significant amount of oil may remain on the skin after the treatment. It is therefore advisable to wear comfortable, loose and/or old clothing as the oil may leave stains. It also might be comfortable to bring clean underwear for after the treatment.

• It is advisable to only shower with water after the treatment, so that the oil can act on the body.

• It is best not to ride a motorbike or bicycle immediately after the treatment.

• It is recommended to bring a hat and a scarf to cover your head, ears and shoulders to protect yourself from any cold air after the treatment.

HOME TIPS

A home version of Abhyanga practiced daily for ongoing self-care is highly beneficial. Ksheerabala Oil can be used safely by people of all body types.

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