Abhyanga Massage

ABHYANGA
Abhyanga, or oil massage, is an ayurvedic external treatment where one, two, or more therapists use massage and aromatic herbal oils to bring balance to the body.

Abhyanga is the Sanskrit word for an oil massage given to the entire body. It is most commonly performed with sesame oil. Although this daily ayurvedic routine takes only a minute or two, when it is performed habitually the results are multi-dimensional.

As you’d expect, the skin becomes more lustrous.

On a slightly deeper level, physical and psychological tensions are eased through the warmth of touch, even when it is our own.

Over time, we can begin to process our deepest patterns, because Abhyanga’s effect helps to gently ease them in to our conscious minds. With awareness, we can choose to resolve our negative karmas and resolve deep emotional issues. Gradually, the spirit is restored to its original state of freedom and lightness. Unencumbered, it flourishes and we evolve.

Overall, the Abhyanga is satisfying alone and fun as a couple. All you need to do is give in to its soothing effects and generally the rest will follow. Like many things yogic, the level of satisfaction and results derived from Abhyanga transcends language. Its value cannot be expressed fully in discussion; its benefit is purely experiential.

"Abhyanga", in other words, the ayurvedic oil massage is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system for overall health and well-being.

Here are some of the benefits traditionally associated with regular performance of this pleasant daily ritual:

* Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings

* Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology

* Calming for the nerves

* Lubrication of the joints

* Increased mental alertness

* Improved elimination of impurities from the body

* Softer, smoother skin

* Increased levels of stamina through the day

* Better, deeper sleep at night

Abhyanga provides the means for trans-dermal absorption of the healing qualities of the material used in the massage, and it helps the skin, which is the largest organ in the body, perform its diverse functions efficiently, whether it is allowing toxins to be released from the body or nourishment to be absorbed by the tissues.

The ayurvedic massage is traditionally performed in the morning, before your bath or shower, to facilitate the release of toxins that may have accumulated during the previous night.

Sources for Oil:

Sesame oil is the most common recommendation by ayurvedic texts.

Ordinary grocery store sesame oil is fine.

Organic oil packaged in glass is best. (Oil breaks down oil, so why chance absorbing even trace amounts of petroleum-based plastic?)

If you are of pitta constitution, you may opt for safflower oil instead, for its cooling properties.

Other vegetable oils such as grapeseed, jojoba, olive, almond, and sunflower are fine.

Never, ever use mineral oil! That is petroleum based.

Do not use the dark culinary “toasted’ sesame oil. It is much too pungent, and processing at high heat has diminished its beneficial properties.

If you have knowledge of the individual properties of essential oils, you can create your own blend.

If you choose sesame oil, look for cold-pressed, chemical-free organic sesame oil for the best results from your massage therapy. Sesame oil contains antioxidant properties, and is helpful in protecting the skin from free radical damage. It is considered highly nourishing for the physiology. To "cure" or purify the sesame oil, heat the oil to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat once this temperature is reached, cool and store for use as needed. Up to a quart of oil can be cured at a time. Of course, you should observe safety precautions when curing oil. All oils are highly flammable. Use low heat, and don't leave the oil on heat unattended.

Herbalized massage oils contain a blend of carefully chosen herbs known for their ability to strengthen the physiology and balance the mind. So the daily massage with an herbalized massage oil has twice the beneficial power -- the benefits from the performance of the actual massage and the added healing wisdom of the herbs

So how is the ayurvedic abhyanga done? Use comfortably warm massage oil. (Store your massage oil in a plastic flip-top and warm it by holding the container under running hot water for a few minutes) Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and apply it lightly to the entire body. Wait for 4-5 minutes to let some of the oil be absorbed by your skin. Then massage the entire body, applying even pressure with the whole hand -- palm and fingers.

Apply light pressure on sensitive areas such as the abdomen or the heart. Use more oil and spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and along the base of the fingernails. Circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints, and straight strokes on straight areas such as your arms and legs, work best.

After you're done, relax for 10-15 minutes, letting the oil and the massage do their magic. The longer the oil is on, the deeper it penetrates. During this time you can read something relaxing or uplifting, rest, or shave, cut nails, and get ready for the day. Dab excess oil off with paper towels if you like, then follow with a relaxing warm bath or shower. If your schedule doesn't allow for a daily massage, try and squeeze it in at least three or four times a week. You'll find it's worth it!