The Benefits of Ayurvedic Oils & Massage
Ayurveda is uuuuubsessed with oil. And massage. And oily massages.
Massage is a central feature in Ayurvedic medicine and daily habits. The benefits of Ayurvedic oils and massage are infinite. But above all the physiological benefits (which we’ll get into), perhaps the most healing benefit of oil massage is that it transmits love deep into the cells of our body.
When we massage our body with oil, we are coating it with a layer of our affection, as well as healing touch. In fact, oil in sanskrit, snehana, means “love” or “affection.” And how to apply soft, gooey love to your body in the form of oil? Thru self-massage aka as abhyanga in Ayurveda.
The skin is the largest organ of the body (it weighs anywhere from 6 to 10 pounds), so it makes sense to care for this large, biologically active organ, no?
When we self-massage, we release a cascade of feel-good growth factor hormones into our bloodstream. Research shows that massage can decrease cortisol (a stress hormone that can be degenerative when too much of it’s flowing in your body). Massage can also increase dopamine, oxytocin, ACTH (adrenocorticotropic) and norepinephrine, all known mood boosters that reduce anxiety and increase relaxation.
Look Good n’ Feel Good
As we age, we begin to lose some of the natural suppleness of youth. Our body shrinks, the joints dry and the mind loses sharpness. To counteract aging, we “juice up” our body with herb-infused oils. Oil is what keeps the skin young, taut, and supple. The benefits of Ayurvedic oils and massage support beauty and body, win win.
The simple practice of oiling our physical body is possibly the best thing we can do for the body and the nervous system on a daily basis. In fact, there is a phrase in traditional Indian healthcare that says, “Either pay the oil man today, or you will be paying the doctor tomorrow.”
Benefits of Ayurvedic Oils & Massage
Soothes and cleanses nervous and endocrine systems
Calms nervous system, increases vitality, and nourishes the skin
Lubricates and promotes flexibility of joints muscles and tissues
Helps support milk supply for breastfeeding mothers
Remedies insomnia and restores balance in the body and mind
Dislodges accumulated toxins and impurities from the body and move them into the digestive system
Stimulates our immune system
Acts as an effective medium for delivering plant medicine
Promotes free flow of prana
Rejuvenates the skin
Promotes a radiant glow and healthy aging
Feed Your Skin Optimal Nutrition
In Ayurveda there are specific recommendations for every single type of body-type aka a Dosha. Don’t know what Dosha you are? Check out these intro posts about each one of them.
In general, use chemical-free, organic, cold-pressed oils. Do not use mineral oils such as baby oils.
P.S.: Sometimes Kapha skin is so moist that it doesn’t require oil. In this case, dry brush the skin before showering.
The Step x Step Guide to Ayurvedic Self-Massage
Heat the appropriate oil for your constitution in a double boiler. Or place the glass bottle in your bathroom sink, close the drain and fill with the hottest water possible. Allow to sit for at least 5 minutes before applying to the body.
Gently massage oil onto the face and body. On the arms and legs, use back-and-forth strokes. On the joints, use circular strokes. On the belly, use circular strokes in a clockwise motion (if you are looking down at your belly). This is the direction in which our long intestine moves, and will stimulate proper digestion.
Spend 15-20 minutes massaging your body. Notice if their are any areas of your body you avoid. The thighs? Feet? Spend the most time there, as these are the places your body needs love the most.
Rub off any excess oil with your dedicated “oil towel” and then take a shower. Showering causes the pores to open, allowing the herbal oil to penetrate even deeper into the skin.
Love this content? Sign-up below for our weekly dish on all things Ayurveda and self-love.
Credits:
Silcox, Katie. Healthy, Happy, Sexy: Ayurveda Wisdom for Modern Women. Atria Paperback, 2015.
V. Morhenn, L.E. Beavin, and P.J. Zak, “Massage Increases Oxytocin and Reduces Adrenocorticotropin Hormone in Humans,” Journal of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine 18, no.6 (November-December 2012): 11-18, http:ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23251939