Fundamental to self care in Ayurveda is the regular practice
of self massage called abhyanga (abb-yun-gah). Specific
oils are selected according to your skin type and which
dosha you want to balance.
Since Vata governs the nerves and circulation and both are
prominent in the skin, massage is very balancing for vata
dosha. Also, oil is described as the most vata pacifying
substance- being unctuous, heavy, soothing, soft and warming-
massaging with oil is especially soothing for vata . On
a physical level oil helps to lubricate the skin and make
the muscles supple. On a psychological level tensions are
eased through the sense of touch.
BENEFITS OF ABHYANGA
- Improves circulation
- Calms the mind and the nervous system
- Promotes restful sleep
- Helps prevents osteoporosis and increases bone strength
- Softens, lubricates and tones the skin
- Reduces signs of aging
- Relieve aches and pains and prevent injuries to
muscles, tendons & joints
SESAME OIL: VATA
Has anti inflammatory properties as well as antibacterial
and anticancer effects on the skin. Massaging the body with
sesame oil quickly improves circulation and promotes healing
of tissues. Daily massage keeps muscles and tendons lubricated
and pliable so they are less likely to injure in the first
place.
COCONUT OIL: PITTA
If you feel hot all the time or or experience red inflamed
rashes on the skin, coconut oil has tremendous cooling properties
and is soothing. Great for menopausal women experiencing
hot flashes)..
SAFFLOWER OIL: KAPHA
Safflower oil is the lightest of oils and especially good
for Kapha. Vigorous dry brushing is of benefit as it stimulates
cirulation.
So how is 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) Sit on an old towel. Sqeeze some oil onto
your fingertips and apply it lightly to the entire body.
(including the scalp-skip this step on days you do not want
to wash your hair.) 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 long daily
massage, then do a shorter one rather than skip it entirely.
You'll find it's worth it!
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