Abhayanga Snan – meditation for the skin

Abhayanga Snan – meditation for the skin

Dinacharya or routine is the crux of Ayurveda. “Din” means Day and “Acharya” means to follow. Ayurveda therefore provides an outline of daily rituals which when followed will keep the mind and body healthy and youthful.

Abhyanga Snan or just Abhyanga is one such ritual that is recommended for all healthy individuals, kids included. The ancient practice of self-massage with oil is a staple of the Ayurvedic lifestyle, and it makes for luxuriously soft, elastic, and hydrated skin. In fact, according to Ayurveda, oil is the primary remedy for excess dryness; so if you have not ever indulged in a full-bodied oil massage, prepare to be wonder struck. This treatment will leave your skin feeling silky smooth, deeply loved, and powerfully revitalized, but the benefits reach well beneath the surface of the skin. Self-massage with oil supports the pathways of detoxification in the body to help keep the skin healthy and clear. It also promotes inner radiance by calming the nervous system, lubricating and rejuvenating the deeper tissues of the body, and encouraging healthy circulation.

The oil of choice is Organic Sesame seed oil and is said to be the most effective for the majority of people. But I find the smell too strong so I use sandalwood infused coconut oil. On my babies I used Calendula infused Jojoba oil. Both these oils are absorbed deeply into the skin tissue and have lesser odour which make them a perfect variation for the busy bodies. I do however use Sesame Oil on weekends and holidays.

Five Benefits of Abhyanga:

• Coconut oil and Sesame Oil possess antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. This means it will help protect against common skin pathogens such as staphylococcus & streptococcus.
• It keeps the skin supple and soft. It also aids in healing minor cuts and abrasions.
• The oil helps joints keep their flexibility and builds strength in the body. Sesame seed oil especially nourishes the joints, bones and muscles, it can give relief for those with osteoarthritis.
• It is very soothing to the mind and nervous system. It gives more mental clarity and improves sleep. Research has proven Abhyanga’s ability to decrease stress hormones in just one session.
• Daily morning massage improves blood circulation, lymphatic flow and removes any stagnancy that occurred during the night. Proper functioning and movement of these systems is important for a robust immune system.

How To Do Abhyanga

• Start by buying organic Sesame, Coconut or Calendula infused Jojoba oil.
• Heat gently in a small pot in the microwave, stove, or you can even use a small bottle under hot running water.
• Prepare an area with a towel or mat on the floor. (I generally do this in the shower. It saves me having to wash towels and mats.)
• Sit down and start by rubbing oil on your feet.
• Work your way up the body with long up and down strokes. Rub the joints in a circular motion.
• Take a warm to hot shower so that the steam opens up your pores and the body can absorb even more oil.

When To Do Abhyanga

It should be done on an empty stomach, ideally after you have eliminated your bowels in the morning, or before you eat dinner in the evening. I try to oil myself daily, with at least weekends being time for Sesame oil.

When Not To Do Abhyanga

Never apply oil when you have

• You have active indigestion, fever, diarrhoea, colds, coughs, flu, etc.
• You are menstruating.
• It is raining or extremely cloudy outside.
• Avoid areas with open oily wounds… and if such areas are large don’t do Abhyanga till completely healed.