European Ayurveda® Massage: Abhyanga Self-Massage
It is one of the most soothing treatments in European Ayurveda®: The Abhyanga massage uses gentle touches to put you in a state of deep relaxation. Healing oil frees your skin from toxins and ensures a radiant complexion. Treat yourself by regularly nurturing and massaging yourself with high-quality oils at home. Taking a break, consciously turning your attention inward, and bringing your body and soul into harmony: This is what the self-care ritual of an Abhyanga self-massage achieves. This traditional massage technique is deeply rooted in Ayurvedic and Indian healing arts.
Principles of Abhyanga Massage
In contrast to other forms of massage, the Abhyanga massage is oriented towards the energy pathways of the body, the Nadis. Targeted massage strokes stimulate energy flow to allow the life energy (Prana) to flow evenly throughout the body. The Abhyanga not only has a relaxing effect, but also stimulates the circulation and metabolism, calms the nervous system, and promotes blood circulation.
A decisive aspect of the Abhyanga massage is the choice of massage oil. Typically, matured sesame oil is used, penetrating deeply into the skin, binding waste products in the cells, and promoting their elimination from the body. In our online shop, you will find high-quality organic sesame oil, as well as a range of special body and massage oils tailored to your Dosha.
Abhyanga for Your Dosha
Depending on your constitution type, you can individually adapt the Abhyanga self-massage: Vata types should focus on balancing, relaxing movements, while Pitta types benefit from stimulating pressure. Kaphas should mindfully include their soles during the self-massage to achieve balance.
The Art of Self-Massage
Since the Abhyanga self-massage is activating and detoxifying, it's best to take a few minutes in the morning for your feel-good ritual. Afterward, remove excess oil with a towel and start the day full of vitality!
Preparation: Warm the massage oil of your choice between your palms. For a more intensive effect, you can carefully heat the oil to body temperature in a small pot. Spread a towel over a comfortable chair and take a seat.
Head and Neck: Pour some oil into your palms and spread it in a circular motion on the top point of your head (crown chakra). Close your eyes, gently massage your head, your ears, and then stroke over the neck.
Arms: Starting at the shoulder, use your right hand to massage your left arm with stroking movements down to the fingertips. Gently massage the inside of your hand. Repeat the massage on the right arm.
Midsection: With both hands, circle down from the collarbones, around your chest to the abdomen. Massage your abdomen in a clockwise circular motion with a flat hand.
Legs: Now massage in circular motions over the hip joints and then stroke down the right thigh with both hands. Stroke over your knee and shin. Circle inside and outside the ankle. Take your foot in both hands and work with small circular motions along the instep forward to the toes. Stroke out your sole. Repeat the massage on the left leg.
Back: Stand up and massage your gluteal muscles with circular movements. Bend forward and massage along the spine with both hands to the shoulder blades. Pull your hands forward again and place the palms on your heart. Straighten up and sit down.
Conclusion: Sense the effects of your self-massage. If you wish, stroke over body parts that demand your attention once more.
If you need to go to work after your ritual, massage the scalp without oil.
The Abhyanga self-massage is not only a physical delight, it also brings you deeply in connection with your inner self. By taking this time for yourself, you not only care for your body but also strengthen your inner balance. Regularly give yourself loving attention — your body and soul will thank you for it!