The Ultimate Self Care Oil Massage That Will Transform Your Body

Do you feel like your body is aching all the time? Are you constantly feeling exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get? You might want to try abhyanga.

This ancient massage technique uses warm sesame (or mixed herbal) oil to soothe and relax your body. The oil is applied all over the body, from the scalp to the toes. Not only does it improve circulation and digestion, but it also helps relieve stress and tension. This practice also facilitates the movement of lymph and has the ability to reduce cellulite. If you’re looking for a way to transform your body, look no further than abhyanga. Keep reading to learn how to do Abhyanga at home!

Abhyanga is an important part of ayurvedic medicine. This traditional Indian system of medicine emphasizes preventative care and the use of natural remedies. If you’re interested in trying abhyanga, you can find a certified practitioner near you. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try it at home! Just make sure to use warm, not hot, oil. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water afterward to help flush out toxins.

Recommended oils for abhyanga

There are many different oils that can be used for abhyanga. Sesame oil is a good option for people who are new to this type of massage. It’s light and has a pleasant, nutty flavor. Coconut oil is another popular choice. It’s slightly heavier than sesame oil, but it’s also very nourishing. If you have dry skin, you might want to try using olive oil. And if you’re looking for an invigorating massage, try using eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil. Please be cautious when using these oils around mucous membranes like the eyes, nose, mouth, and genital areas.

No matter what type of oil you use, make sure it’s warmed before applying it to your body. If you’re using sesame or coconut oil, melt it in a pan over low heat. Be careful not to overheat the oil, and to test it on the inner wrist to make sure it isn’t too hot.

Basics of Abhyanga

If you’re new to abhyanga, start with a light oil like sesame or coconut. Apply the oil to your entire body, using long, smooth strokes and circular strokes. You’ll start at the crown of your head massaging down to the soles of your feet. Spend extra time on areas that feel tight or sore. When you’re finished, take a warm shower or bath to wash off the oil. You should feel relaxed and rejuvenated afterward! Continue reading for details on how to perform your abhyanga massage.

Massage Your Scalp

One of the best parts of abhyanga is the scalp massage. The warm oil feels amazing on your skin, and it can help to improve circulation and promote hair growth. To give yourself a scalp massage, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your scalp. Begin at the crown of your head. Use your finger tips to massage the oil into your scalp in a circular motion. Continue massaging the scalp for up to five minutes. Don’t worry, once you’re done with the rest of your massage you’ll shampoo and condition your hair as usual. You should notice a difference in the texture and appearance of your hair after just one treatment!

Massage your ears

Ear massage is another important part of abhyanga. This type of massage can help to improve hearing, relieve pain, and reduce stress. To massage your ears, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your ears. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your ears in a circular motion. Start at the top of the ear and work your way down to the lobe. You can massage the outer ear canal with oil but please be cautions of getting oil into the inner ear.

Massage Your face

Abhyanga massage can help to improve circulation, reduce wrinkles, and promote glowing skin. To massage your face, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your face. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the forehead and work your way down to the chin.

Massage Your shoulders and neck

For many people, the shoulders and neck are areas of tension. Massaging these areas with warm oil can help to relieve pain and promote relaxation. To massage your shoulders and neck, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your shoulders and neck. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the top of the shoulder and work your way down to the neck.

As you massage your shoulders and neck, be sure to avoid any areas that feel sore or painful. If you have any knots or trigger points, spend extra time massaging those areas.

Massage Your Arms

Start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your right arm. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the shoulder and work your way down to the hand. Repeat on the left arm. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart.

Massage your torso

To massage your torso, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your chest and stomach. Make sure to get your back. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the top of the chest and work your way down to the stomach.

As you massage your torso, be sure to avoid any areas that feel sore or painful. If you have any knots or trigger points, spend extra time massaging those areas. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart.

Digestive Massage (optional)

Abhyanga massage can also help to improve digestion. To massage your digestive tract, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your stomach. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a clockwise motion. Use a sweeping motion from the lower right of your abdomen upwards just below the ribcage. The second motion will be across the underside of your ribcage. The third from the left side underneath the ribcage down to the lower abdomen on the left side. The fourth motion will be from the left lower abdomen down towards your pubis or your groin. Massage the stomach for up to five minutes following this pattern continuing with light to moderate pressure (based on comfort). You do not need to be forceful. Just a heads up this is following the flow of your bowels and may facilitate a bowel movement shortly after your abhyanga massage.

Massage your buttocks

To massage your buttocks, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your buttocks. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the top of the buttocks and work your way down to the bottom. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart.

Massage your thighs

To massage your thighs, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your right thigh. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the top of the thigh and work your way down to the knee. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart.

Massage your lower leg and calfs

To massage your lower leg and calf, start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your right leg. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the ankle and work your way up to the knee. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart. Repeat on the left leg.

Massage Your Feet

Start by pouring some warmed oil into your hands. Rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly, then apply it to your right foot. Use your fingers to massage the oil into your skin in a circular motion. Start at the toes and work your way up to the ankle. Pay special attention to the soles of your feet. Finish with sweeping motions back towards the heart. Repeat on the left foot.

Just a reminder be extremely careful in the tub, oil can create slippery surfaces which can become a slipping hazard in the shower or tub. I usually perform abhyanga outside of the bathtub on an old towel.

After you have massaged your entire body, spend some time relaxing in a warm bath or shower. Rinse off the oil and enjoy the benefits of improved circulation and soft, glowing skin.

Abhyanga massage is an incredible way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. The next time you’re feeling stressed or run down, consider giving yourself an abhyanga massage. So what are you waiting for? Incorporate abhyanga into your self-care routine today and see the difference it makes in your body, mind, and spirit! You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel.

Thanks for reading! I hope this has inspired you to try abhyanga massage for yourself. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below. Namaste!