Featured Winter Self-Care Practice: Abhyanga

Abhyanga--the ayurvedic oil massage--is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system (ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine native to India and practiced in other parts of the world as a form of alternative medicine) for overall health and well-being. It is nourishing, pacifies the doshas, relieves fatigue, provides stamina, improves sleep, enhances the complexion and the luster of the skin, promotes longevity and nourishes all parts of the body.

Here are some of the benefits traditionally associated with regular performance of this pleasant daily ritual:

• Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings
• Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology
• Calming of the nerves
• Lubrication of the joints
• Increased mental alertness
• Improved elimination of impurities from the body
• Softer, smoother skin
• Increased levels of stamina through the day
• Better, deeper sleep at night

Abhyanga provides the means for trans-dermal absorption of the healing qualities of the material used in the massage and it helps the skin, which is the largest organ in the body, perform its diverse functions efficiently, whether it is allowing toxins to be released from the body or nourishment to be absorbed by the tissues.

The ayurvedic massage is traditionally performed in the morning, before your bath or shower, to facilitate the release of toxins that may have accumulated during the previous night. You can use sesame oil, an herbalized massage oil or an aroma massage oil.

Use comfortably warm massage oil. Store your massage oil in a plastic flip-top and warm it by holding the container under running hot water for a few minutes. Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and apply it lightly to the entire body. Wait for 4 - 5 minutes to let some of the oil be absorbed by your skin. Then massage the entire body, applying even pressure with the whole hand--palm and fingers.

Apply light pressure on sensitive areas such as the abdomen or the heart. Use more oil and spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and along the base of the fingernails. Circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints and straight strokes on straight areas such as your arms and legs work best.

After you're done, relax for 10 - 15 minutes, letting the oil and the massage do their magic. The longer the oil is on, the deeper it penetrates. During this time you can meditate, read something relaxing or uplifting, or just relax. Dab excess oil off with paper towels, if you like, then follow with a relaxing warm bath or shower. Do not use soap on the body.

Keep checking back for more updates to my Winter Wellness series. Catch up on early posts here.