Vata season is upon us; and this means various weather patterns, colder temperatures, wind, and the drying out of our bodies.
The excitement of Autumn and the shift of energy can feel exciting, but also can cause us to be overwhelmed, anxious, absent minded, unfocused, and ungrounded.
One great Ayurveda routine to get grounded, calm and relaxed energy back into your body and mind is a self-massage, called Abhyanga. Abhyanga can also be administered by a technician at a clinic and works the surface of the skin, rather than the more familiar deep tissue or sports massage.
In India, Ayurveda was practiced in the home. The food, routines and rituals helped keep the body in vigorous health, and the mind vibrant and balanced with a holistic and preventive approach. You can learn how to do Abhyanga yourself at home. Just make sure you are prepared by following the instructions below.
Heat your oil. In the colder months, favor heavier and denser oils such as sesame and olive, and since it will be absorbed by your skin, make sure it’s a high quality organic expeller pressed oil. In the summer you can use coconut.
Before starting, cover your bathroom floor with an old sheet or towel and avoid spilling the oil as it is difficult to clean up.
Warm about a cup of oil either in an Abyangha oil lamp that you can buy at any Indian store, or pour oil into a heat resistant container like a Mason jar and let it sit in warm water to heat.
The heated oil is more readily absorbed and distributed this way. Massage your body with the oil and cover your entire body, avoiding any drafts or outside distractions.
Especially massage your head and your feet, and anywhere that feels tight. Leave on for at least 20 minutes.
After, shower with warm water and soap and relax. Some of the oil absorbs and hydrates the skin. The excess should not be left on as it can damage fabric or surfaces, and also start to break down and become rancid.
Now would not be the time to jump around town and be a busy body, nurture your body and relax in sacred space. Meditate, practice yoga, listen to music. Don’t over do it. The sesame oil helps to hydrate your skin, lubricate your joints and pulls out toxins from your body.
Abhyanga can relieve emotional imbalance, depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue, provides stamina, improves the skin, promotes longevity, and acts as a healing agent for your whole body. Medicated oils with special herbs can be purchased for Abhyanga to match your dosha or constitution.
Enjoy your self massage and notice it’s affect on your yoga practice, you will definitely notice that oiling your joints will have a positive impact on your body, and aid in releasing tension and blocked areas of your body.
