What Is Abhyanga? A Beginner’s Guide to Ayurvedic Massage

Abhyanga ayurvedic massage is a key part of Panchakarma Treatment, which is all about detoxifying and cleansing the body. Before starting the detox process, an Abhyanga massage prepares the body. This massage helps move toxins toward the gut, making it easier for the body to eliminate them.

There are different types of Abhyanga Ayurvedic massages:

• Synchronized Abhyanga: This massage involves two therapists working on your body at the same time, creating a synchronized and balanced experience.
• Shiro Abhyanga: This focuses on massaging the head, scalp, and neck areas, which helps to relax the mind, improve sleep, and relieve headaches.
• Padaghata Abhyanga: This type concentrates on the feet and legs, providing relief from fatigue, improving circulation, and promoting relaxation.
• Udwarthanam: This involves using herbal powders instead of oils for massage, which helps in exfoliating the skin, reducing cellulite, and promoting weight loss.
• Pizzichil: In this luxurious treatment, warm herbal oils are poured over the body while simultaneously massaging, which helps to deeply moisturize the skin and soothe the muscles.

Abhyanga massages are typically done by skilled Ayurvedic experts for optimal results. Visit the Ayurvedic Clinic in Bangalore periodically for a complete Abhyanga experience.

Here are the steps to follow for Abhyanga, a self-massage technique:

1. Prepare the Space: Find a comfortable, warm, and quiet area for your massage. Lay down a towel or blanket to protect surfaces from oil.
2. Select the Oil: Choose an oil suitable for your dosha or body type. Warm the oil slightly by placing the container in warm water for a few minutes.
3. Start with the Head: Begin by applying oil to your scalp and massaging it gently with your fingertips in circular motions. Move to the forehead, temples, and behind the ears.
4. Massage the Body: Pour some oil into your palms and apply it to the rest of your body, starting from the neck and working your way down to the feet. Use long strokes on the limbs and circular motions on the joints. Massage the abdomen and chest in clockwise circular motions.
5. Focus on Problem Areas: Spend extra time on areas of tension or stiffness, applying slightly more pressure if needed.
6. Relax: After massaging your entire body, relax for 10-15 minutes to allow the oil to penetrate your skin and nourish your tissues.
7. Shower or Bath: Take a warm shower or bath to rinse off the excess oil. Use a mild soap if necessary, but try to keep the natural oils on your skin as much as possible.
8. Rest: After your shower, rest for a while to let the benefits of the massage sink in before resuming your daily activities.

Abhyanga massage is popular because it offers many health benefits:

1. It helps you relax physically and mentally, easing strained muscles and calming your mind. This can relieve stress, tension, and even symptoms of depression.
2. Studies have found that Abhyanga can lower blood pressure by improving circulation.
3. The massage also benefits your skin, moisturizing it, improving texture, and helping with issues like wrinkles and scars.
4. Head massage improves scalp health, which can solve hair problems and promote growth.
5. If you suffer from back pain or muscle strain, Abhyanga can provide relief and reduce stiffness.
6. It's believed to slow down aging and rejuvenate the body.
7. Abhyanga supports digestion and can improve its functioning.

The choice of oil for Abhyanga depends on which Dosha needs balancing:

If Vata Dosha is imbalanced, sesame oil or Dhanwantharam Thailam is typically used. For Pitta Dosha imbalance, coconut oil or Chandanadi Thailam may be used.

When Kapha Dosha is affected, mustard oil or Karpasasthyadi Thailam might be used. To make Abhyanga more effective, the oil is mixed with herbs that help calm the specific Dosha.

Before:

• Prepare a comfortable and warm space.
• Choose the right oil for your body type and warm it slightly.
• Set aside enough time for your massage, typically around 20-30 minutes.

During:

• Apply the warm oil to your scalp and body, massaging gently in circular motions.
• Focus on relaxing and enjoying the experience.
• Spend extra time on areas of tension or stiffness.
• After massaging, rest quietly for about 10-15 minutes to let the oil soak into your skin.

After:

• Take a warm shower or bath to rinse off the excess oil.
• Use a mild soap if needed, but try to keep some of the oil on your skin to continue benefiting from it.
• Feel relaxed and rejuvenated, with improved circulation and a sense of well-being.
• Take some time to rest and enjoy the afterglow of the massage.

Abhyanga massage is a strong Ayurvedic therapy that can relax both your mind and body. Whether it's part of a Panchakarma treatment or a standalone session, Abhyanga brings many health benefits. It nourishes tissues, removes toxins, cleanses skin, and enhances overall wellness. It's important to have Abhyanga done by a trained massage therapist under the guidance of an Ayurvedic expert.

Adivaidyam is a well-known Ayurvedic Clinic in Bangalore offering Abhyanga massage. You can reach out to us anytime to schedule an appointment. Depending on your health needs, we'll recommend the appropriate massage to improve your well-being and rejuvenate your body and mind. So book your Abhyanga massage today to experience the healthy benefits and take the first step towards optimal health and wellness.