Consult an Ayurvedic doctor
Ideally, you would seek the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting a new Ayurvedic practice, especially if you plan to use it long-term. In the United States, Ayurvedic medicine is not federally regulated and no state requires a license, but the National Association of Ayurvedic Physicians recommends that you identify your personal constitution and formulate Ayurvedic medicine. We provide tools to help you find certified professionals near you. An Ayurvedic health routine that includes establishing an Abhyanga practice designed for your specific needs.
If you’d like to explore Abhyanga on your own, here’s some introductory information about this practice’s self-massage form from discussions with Silcox and Sukumaran.
identify you doshaor the Constitution
In Ayurveda, your constitution is determined by the balance of these three things. dosha In your body, according to California Ayurveda University.
Doshas are thought to be energies that form unique minds and bodies based on the elements of air, fire, water, earth, and space. According to Ayurveda, the three doshas are pitta (fire), vata (air and space) and Kapha (earth and water).
Consulting with an Ayurvedic practitioner can help you identify which Ayurvedic practices and applications will work best for you and your constitution. Silcox, who is also the founder of Shakti School, offers free doshas if you want to learn more about your dosha (or multiple doshas, as some people are primarily a combination of two or all three). She offers quizzes.
Other quizzes can also be found elsewhere online to help you learn more about your PhD. Check the constitution or find out more before meeting with an official practitioner. For example, Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health and Chopra Center both offer similar free tools.
Please select an oil
Abhyanga’s oil content is considered to be particularly important. “[Most] Food-grade organic oils are very effective,” says Sukumaran. Sesame oil, in particular, is generally considered one of the healthiest oils, especially for people with dry skin or who live in dry climates, she says.
According to Ayurvedic philosophy, coconut oil is a cooling oil, making it another option, especially during hot weather. For example, in summer or if you have a “fire” constitution, also known as pitta dosha, you can use coconut oil.
People with kapha dosha types tend to have oily skin, notes Sukumaran, in which case a lighter oil like almond or jojoba, or dry brushing may be helpful.
This oil is often combined with spices to balance the doshas. Sukumaran says you can make your own spices by steeping the oil with food-grade spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom and bay leaves. Seek guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner about which spices and herbal preparations balance your doshas..
An easier method, Silcox says, is to purchase ready-to-use herbal massage oils designed for doshas. Companies such as Banyan Botanicals sell formulations for Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Start with a foot and foot massage
Rub the oil between your hands and warm it up with your body temperature. To avoid the risk of skin burns, do not heat the oil on a stove or with electrical equipment.
To begin your massage, Sukumaran suggests starting with your hands and feet. For example, take your left hand and run it along your right arm from shoulder to wrist. (The idea is to start closer to your heart and gradually move away from it.) Repeat with your left arm, then your leg.
Apply enough pressure to massage the oil into your body, just like you would moisturize with lotion.
Use circular strokes for soft spots
When approaching joints such as knees and elbows, move your hands in soft circles around the joints.
Add gentle, round movements to your stomach, buttocks, chest, and chest. Don’t forget the top of your head, feet, belly button, and ears. “All of these parts of the body are connected to vital organs.” [according to ayurvedic philosophy].I’m going to apply oil here. [may bring] It’s quiet, rest and peace,” says Sukumaran.
wipe and wash
Leave the oil on your body for at least 5 minutes. “Traditionally, you then go into a pond or shower to wash yourself off,” says Sukumaran. Alternatively, you can dry yourself with a towel and then rinse with lukewarm water. Since oil gets into your hair, it is okay to shampoo.
The entire process can be completed within 15 minutes, Sukumaran says.
