Abhyanga | Why abhyanga with sesame oil? | When and how should Abhyanga be done?
The term ”massage” is typically connected with high-end spa treatments and is considered a luxury and privilege. Ayurveda, on the other hand, recommends daily self-massage, or ”Abhyanga”. Despite the fact that this technique appears to be time-consuming and laborious, the rewards are immeasurable. It is more convenient and less expensive than professional massage therapies, and it can be done at home.
Abhyanga
Self-massage is extremely grounding, relieves anxiety and stress, and relaxes both the mind and the body. Use a massage oil that is appropriate for the massage.
- It slows the aging process – The oil improves the health of your skin and gives you a youthful glow. It also protects against dryness and nourishes all skin types.
- Promotes nervous system health – Improves blood circulation and stimulates nerve activities.
- Induces deep and restful sleep – The warm and relaxing oil helps with insomnia.
- Improves hair health – Your hair will get thicker, stronger, and shinier as a result of the oil and massaging.
- Relief from stress and anxiety – The sesame oil helps you relax and feel less anxious.
- Other advantages – Include improved musculoskeletal health, promoting correct circulation and lymph drainage, improving vision and tissue tone and nourishing the entire body.
Why abhyanga with sesame oil?
Sesame oil is known as the ’king of oils’ in Ayurveda. It’s known as the traditional Abhyanga oil. Warming the oil and then combining it with herbs before rubbing it on your body is what Sesame Abhyanga is all about.
Sesame oil has potent antioxidants that help combat free radical damage to the skin. It also heals skin damage caused by the sun’s damaging rays.
Tanning, fine wrinkles, sunspots, and markings induced by UV rays are all treated with sesame oil.
It also soothes inflammatory discomfort in the joints and nourishes our body’s muscles and bones.
When and how should Abhyanga be done?
On an empty stomach, abhyanga should be a part of your morning ritual. It takes only 20 minutes to complete and can easily be included into our regular routine. If you can’t do it every day, do it thoroughly on weekends.
- Warm 100ml sesame oil and apply liberally on your entire body. Leftover oil can be used next time.
- Begin rubbing your face in upward circular motions around your forehead, temples, cheeks, jawline, and ears.
- Stroke your limbs and joints in a circular motion, always in the direction of your heart.
- Use broad circular motions to massage the abdomen and chest.
- Finally, give your feet a relaxing massage. The nerve terminals of vital organs are found in the feet, and massaging them for at least a few minutes is necessary.
- Allow the sesame oil to penetrate deeper layers of the body by sitting for 10 minutes.
- Take a hot shower and feel energized!