Massage Oils Do Make the Difference

A daily self- massage can be a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and your overall well-being. An Abhyanga is generally performed in the morning but can be done in the evening to help you sleep. If performed at night, remember to keep your strokes smooth and soothing rather than vigorous.
Last week we talked about the benefits and the technique of the Abhyanga. This week, I wanted to share some of the strategies to maximize the benefits by using different oils and aromatherapy. Remember that Ayurveda teaches us that like increases like and that opposites balance, so in choosing your oils and herbs take into account the qualities influencing your Dosha, your  vikruti (current state), and the season.  

Though there are many to choose from, the most common of the base oils in Ayurveda are

·         Sesame Oil
·         Almond or sweet almond oil
·         Coconut oil
·         Sunflower
·         Olive

1.    Those whose Vata principle is out of balance require a light touch, using heavy, warm oils such as sesame or almond.  Infusing oils with herbs like Patchouli, Vetiver, and Basil are relaxing and can calm, quiet, and harmonize the body.

2.    Those with an excess of Pitta will benefit from deeper massages and cooling oils such as coconut, sunflower or olive. Infusing oils with herbs like Brahmi, Ylang-Ylang, Lavender, and Lemon is soothing. These can cool, settle, and focus the body.

3.    When seeking to pacify the Kapha element, perform a stimulating, vigorous massage that employs lighter oils like safflower, sunflower, or warmer oils like mustard or almond. Because it increases circulation and has an invigorating effect, a dry massage using herbal powders or silk gloves is also beneficial for balancing Kapha. Infusing oils with herbs like Neem, Rosemary, Frankincense, and Peppermint is invigorating. These can refresh, inspire, and enliven the body.

Though I am not a fan of shortcuts, I know that sometimes we cut our time for ourselves short, so if your morning schedule is tight, do a short mini massage.

The most important parts to cover in a min-massage are the head and the feet. Sit on a stool or the edge of the tub (remember to have your towel there to avoid slipping) and you only need about 2 tablespoons of oil.  Take one tablespoon of warm oil and rub into your scalp, using small circular motions. Use the flat of the hand and not the fingertips. Massage the forehead from side to side with your palm. Gently massage the temples, using circular motions, and then gently rub the outside of the ears. Massage the back and front of your neck. With the second tablespoon of oil, massage both feet using the flat of your hand. Work the oil around the toes with your fingertips. Vigorously massage the soles of your feet with brisk back and forth motions.

Sit quietly for a few seconds to relax and soak in the oil. Then bathe or shower normally.

In Deepak Chopra’s book Perfect Health, he states, “To continue evolving and progressing in life, you must make the right choices for yourself, day after day, minute after minute”. Taking time for yourself is a decision just as is not taking time for yourself. What you do in that time is a choice. Recognize that we naturally lean towards healthy decisions. Decide today to give your body the balance it is craving. Use the Abhyanga for the next 21 days without question. Then evaluate how it makes you feel. Use different oils to see the effects that work the best. Then come back here to this blog and let me know how things are going.

As always, in joyful health.

Jeanine