Abhyanga is an ayurvedic massage therapy that may include massaging the body with custom prepared oil infused with herbal formulas, which may include Marma therapy (accupressure), Cranial Sacral therapy and Pranacharya therapy (energy healing). Additionally, it is usually followed by Shirodhara and Infrared Sauna therapies. Abhyanga is a holistic treatment intended to balance the body’s constitution, or doshas, and is performed by applying warm oil from the head to the toes. Abhyanga may be done at home or by the ayurvedic physician, and benefits include improved detoxification, cleansing, skin & joint health, balancing doshas, and relaxation. Abhyanga is performed after diagnosis and assessment or as recommended the ayurvedic physician.
How it’s done
- Preparation: Warm therapeutic oil custom prepared by infusing with herbal formulas.
- Application: Begin by massaging the head, face, and ears, then move to the rest of the body, applying oil to the scalp first.
- Strokes: Long, steady strokes on the limbs and circular motions on the joints.
- Direction: Strokes are directed towards the heart, with the main motion going from the center of the body outwards and down to the extremities.
- Pressure: The pressure and speed of the strokes may be adjusted to suit the individual’s dosha.
- Marma: We will perform applicable marma therapy (accupressure therapy) at applicable accupressure points identified during the diagnosis and assessment.
- Pranacharya: We will perform prana lifeforce healing (most ancient form of energy healing) as deemed applicable during the diagnosis and assessment.
- Duration: After the abhyanga, we will allow the oil to absorb for 15 to 30 minutes before gently cleansing off excess oil.
Benefits
- Will expedite re-gaining dosha(s) balance (healing constitution of body and mind)
- Increases blood flow to the skin
- Improves skin softness and suppleness
- May decrease wrinkles, cellulite, and hyperpigmentation
- Aids in joint health
- Nourishes body tissues and helps balance the body’s energy (doshas)
- Promotes deep relaxation and stress relief
When to avoid
Fever, Acute illness, Blood clots or bleeding disorders, Dehydration, During chemotherapy, Hangovers, and Menstruation.