Abhyanga is the Ayurvedic practice of massaging the body with warm oil. At EKAM it is given by trained therapists, and many guests ask whether a simpler version can be kept at home. A short self-massage cannot replace a therapist's treatment, but it can be a calm, grounding habit of its own.
What You Need
A small bowl of plain oil (sesame is traditional, and coconut or almond are common in warmer months), a towel you do not mind staining, and about ten unhurried minutes. Warm the oil gently by standing the bowl in hot water. It should feel pleasantly warm, never hot. Test a drop on your inner wrist first.
How to Do It
Begin at the scalp and face, using small, light circles. Move to the neck and shoulders. Use long strokes along the arms and legs, and circular strokes over the joints such as the shoulders, elbows, knees and ankles. Over the abdomen, move slowly in a clockwise circle. Finish with the feet, which many people find the most soothing part.
Use as much pressure as feels comfortable. This is not deep-tissue work. If anything is sore, ease off.
Afterwards
Rest for a few minutes with the oil on, then take a warm shower. Use mild soap only where needed. Many people choose to do it before a morning bath or in the evening before sleep, depending on what their day needs.
When to Skip It
Avoid it when you have a fever, an acute illness, a skin infection or open wounds, when you feel unwell after a heavy meal, and on skin that is irritated or inflamed. In pregnancy, after surgery, or with any long-term condition, please ask your doctor first. Patch-test any new oil on a small area, as natural does not mean non-allergenic.
Which oil suits you best depends on your constitution and the season, which is something a consultation can work out. To see how classical therapies are chosen for the individual, read A Modern Approach to Ayurveda, or explore Abhyanga at EKAM.
