Self-Massage is Self-Love
Ayurveda translates to “the science of life” and encompasses preventative, curative & health maintenance processes and techniques.
One of my favorite maintenance rituals is a practice known as Abhyanga, a process of self-massage that can be done daily in just a few minutes. It is suggested to do the ritual in the morning, before a shower, but some people find it a helpful tool before bed to help with sleep and ease anxious feelings. Ideally, Abhyanga is done daily, especially in the colder months, but you can receive a host of benefits by following this self-love ritual 2 to 4 times a week. You can add essential oils according to what you are looking to experience. In the morning, peppermint, ginger, cinnamon are stimulating, while at night Lavender, vetiver, cedarwood are calming and grounding.
The first thing you need when performing self-massage is good massage oils. I like sesame oil or almond oil. But you can also use coconut or jojoba. Make sure whatever base oil you use is plain, not toasted or refined. Ayurveda recommends warming oils before massaging them into the body and using light, firm strokes. When the body is gently anointed with warm oils, dryness is counteracted, the joints are lubricated, and the skin shines and glows with inner health. Besides all this, a warm oil massage is relaxing.
Start at the bottom of your feet, working upwards toward the heart, use long strokes on limbs and circular strokes on joints. Circular motions on the abdomen going clockwise can aid the digestive process and help ease gas and bloating. Continue with these clockwise circular motions over the chest. Remember, movements should always go towards the heart. Don’t forget your buttocks, lower back and shoulders. When you are done with your oil application, you can take a warm shower or relaxing bath to enhance the effects.
The benefits of Abhyanga are numerous.
• Firms, nourishes and smoothes the skin, therefore slowing the external signs of aging.
• Improves lymph flow (you can read my blog on the importance of lymph flow here ).
• Provides soothing relief from symptoms like soreness, tension, or everyday aches.
• When used at night, it can improve sleep and counteract fatigue when used in the morning.
• Last and not least, it is a beautiful expression of self-love and acceptance of yourself and your body.
There are a variety of essential oils to add to our base oil.
Lemongrass: supports healthy digestion, purifies and tones skin and nails, repels insects
Eucalyptus: supports clear breathing, revitalizes skin, energizing, soothes tired, sore muscles
Lavender: calming, relaxing, soothes occasional skin irritations, eases feelings of tension
Rosemary: supports healthy digestion, supports healthy respiratory function, helps reduce occasional fatigue
Peppermint: promotes healthy respiratory function & clear breathing, can soothe stomach upset
Ginger: warming promotes circulation, soothes joints
These are just a few of the many oils you can use individually or in combination to achieve the desired effect.
I will always end by saying that all oils are not created equal. I only use doTERRA® essential oils because of their commitment to purity and sustainability.
Are you ready to get oily?! Let me be your guide to the best practices and tools to help you live your best life. Let’s talk.