Abhyanga (Self Oil Massage)
Abhyanga refers to a type of Ayurvedic oil massage. In this ancient method, oil is applied to the entire body in a particular way that helps to loosen toxins and excess doshas in order to bring them into the digestive tract for elimination. This massage also makes the superficial and deep tissues soft and supple, thus helping to remove stress and nourish the nervous system.
Supplies
Recommended abhyanga oil - options: vata oil, pitta oil, kapha oil, daily massage oil, brahmi oil, sesame oil (for vata), coconut oil (for pitta), sunflower oil (for kapha).
Space heater (optional)
Old towels
Water bath to heat the oil
Procedure:
Get yourself set up in a warm, relaxing space. Have lots of old towels on hand to sit on and dry yourself off with.
To warm the oil, place the plastic squeeze bottle in a glass or bowl of hot water (not boiling) for several minutes. Test the temperature of the oil on the inside of your wrist before applying to your body.
Once you’re all set up, apply a generous amount of oil from head to toe, covering your entire body.
Massage yourself, beginning with the extremities (head, hands or feet) and working towards your core (e.g. foot > ankle > lower leg > knee > upper leg > hip, other leg, then move onto your arms and head). Make circular motions on the joints and straight strokes on the muscles, continuously moving towards the abdomen in order to loosen and transport the toxins into the digestive tract for elimination. Be sure not to become chilled at any point during your massage.
Continue massaging for 5-30 minutes. Apply more oil whenever necessary.
Once complete, take a hot shower, hot bath or enjoy a sauna.