Abhyanga (ah-bee-yanga) is a brief full-body self-massage that is a valuable part of maintaining good health. It works in an obvious way to move lymph and circulation, and is soothing for the skin ( our largest organ in the human body!) It also works in more subtle ways in the nervous system, moving a clear message to a deep level within: RELAX . . . . .
This practice counteracts the coldness and the dryness of winter: Both of which are factors that we cannot control! But it is also recommended and part of daily self care all year round.
Using this technique, we can restore ease, moisture and resilience, deep into our muscles and tissues.
Use sesame oil, (not toasted!) it is best, or a good quality pure almond oil. Stay away from mineral oil for this practice, it is actually drying. In the summer a good alternative to use is coconut oil. It will really cool you off.
Before (yes, before!) your bath or shower, spread an old towel on the floor that you don’t mind getting a little oil on. One half to one full ounce of oil will usually cover the body with a light coating. Less is better than more. The health benefits of gently rubbing, stroking and stimulating the skin are equally as important as the therapeutic qualities of sesame oil. If it is cold out or during winter months, fill a small bowl or cup with quite hot water, and place your oil in a smaller glass or squeeze bottle, into the hot water for a few minutes to warm up the oil.
Use slow, circular motions on your face and over joints, long strokes over open areas and along limbs. Massaging the ears, palms of the hands and soles of the feet will stimulate nerve endings to help balance and calm the nervous system pathways which lead to internal organs. A few drops of oil on the crown of the head is a special area that creates an especially calming effect.
Before moving off the towel or mat, wipe excess oil from the soles of your feet. Stand on a non-skid mat in the shower.
We know now that the skin, in response to being rubbed, creates interferon and interluken II, peptides which enhance the body’s immune system. While being massaged by another person, professional or intimate friend, is nice, the skin also responds enthusiastically even when we give ourselves an Abhyanga.
The health benefits of the self-abhyanga can be yours for less than ten minutes each time you shower. I hope you give it a try, it will leave you feeling noticeably calmer and more relaxed.
You may like oil especially prepared for Abhyanga, Offered by Banyan Botanicals:
Links for more information:
Extensive information, list of benefits
Chopra’s site on Abhyanga
Banyan Botanicals article and video
Long list of benefits