Eighteen Benefits of Self Massage/Abhyanga
Eighteen Benefits of Abhyanga according to Ayurveda
According to Ayurveda, your life force (prana) flows through channels called nadis. Self-massage or “abhyanga” stimulates your energetic channels, promoting the easy flow of prana through your mind and body.
As you massage your body, you’re promoting the flushing out of impurities and toxins through your skin.
Sesame oil most commonly used for this practice is warming.. Coconut oil is cooling. being we are at the end of the winter season i recommend using sesame oil or Ashwganda Bala oil fro daily massage. This can be done before the shower however put a non slip pad in your shower.
Start at the bottom of the feet and move up the body. Around knees and joints go in circular motion. Experience the sacredness of your body and give it some love and attention while doing this.
These are some benefits of self massage according to ancient texts of Ayurveda:
• Decreases the effects of aging
• Nourishes the body
• Increases longevity
• Increases circulation, especially to nerve endings
• Imparts muscle tone and vigor to the dhatus (tissues) of the body
• Imparts a firmness to the limbs
• Lubricates the joints
• Increases mental alertness
• Calms the nerves
• Benefits sleep – better, deeper sleep
• Stimulates the internal organs of the body, including circulation
• Assists in elimination of impurities from the body
• Moves the lymph, aiding in detoxification
• Increases stamina
• Enhances vision
• Makes hair (scalp) grow luxuriantly, thick, soft and glossy
• Skin becomes softer and smoother; reduces and removes wrinkles
• Pacifies Vata and Pitta and stimulates Kapha
Ideally warming the oil under the sink or in a hot pot of water is good. Please do not microwave the oil.
With winter coming to an end hopefully soon, this ancient practice can rejuvenate and uplift your spirit.