Abhyanga - The Sense of Touch

"Abyhanga uses the sense of touch for nourishment of the mind, body and spirit."

In Ayurveda, there are many practices that are performed on a daily basis. One of these practices is called Abyhanga (self-massage). These practices or routines are integral to achieving a healthy, balanced life. Abyhanga is the usage of oil to massage the body. It is stated in the ancient texts of Ayurveda that by giving yourself a daily massage, it will pacify all doshas, provide nourishment, enhance lustrous skin, and promote longevity.

Abyhanga uses the sense of touch for nourishment of the mind, body and spirit. The body’s largest organ is our skin, and it needs to perform its diverse functions in an efficient manner. The skin protects us from the external environment. When self-massage is performed on a daily basis, our body will perform at its best. Imagine a car that is not given proper maintenance. It could easily break down over time, and same is true of the human body. The benefits of Abyhanga include the following:

• Increase circulation

• Tone the muscles

• Calm the nerves

• Lubricate the joints and body

• Increase mental alertness

• Relieve fatigue

• Detoxify the body

• Promote softer skin

• Increase stamina and vitality

• Promote restful sleep

• Lustrous hair

• Lymph drainage

Abyhanga is typically done in the morning before taking a bath or shower. It can also be done at night before bed. Warm oil is used, and typically the oil is based on the dosha of the person. Herbs or essential oils can be added to the oil. The Abyhanga steps are as follow:

1. Warm up the oil.

2. Start by applying the oil on your head. Massage the scalp, then the face and ears in a circular motion. Use your thumb and index finger to massage each ear.

3. Next, work your way down until you reach your feet. Focus on the areas of the heart, stomach and feet.

4. Once you are done, leave the oil on for 10-15 minutes.

5. Next, hop in the shower or bath, and then you are done.

Abyhanga is very simple yet very effective when done on a daily basis. You will nourish the body and provide self-love.

Following are oils and herbs that can be used based on each dosha:

• Vata dosha.

  • Oils: Organic cold pressed sesame oil, olive oil, ghee.

  • Herbs: Ashwagandha, shatavari, bala.

• Pitta dosha.

  • Oils: Organic cold pressed sunflower oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, neem oil.

  • Herbs: Gotu kola, guduchi, manjistha, shatavari.

• Kapha dosha:

  • Oils: Organic cold pressed sesame oil, almond oil.

  • Herbs: Tulsi, rosemary, punarnava, chitrak.