Abhyanga: The Power of Touch in Ayurveda

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What is Abhyanga?

In Ayurveda, touch is considered one of the most powerful healing forces — and Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage) is a beautiful expression of that belief.
Rooted in ancient wisdom, Abhyanga is more than just a massage; it is a ritual of self-care, rejuvenation, and holistic healing. The rhythmic application of warm, herbal oils nourishes the body, calms the mind, and balances the doshas, making it an essential part of a healthy Ayurvedic lifestyle.

How Abhyanga Works in Ayurveda

According to Ayurveda, our skin is not merely a protective layer but a gateway to deeper healing. The gentle yet powerful strokes of Abhyanga stimulate the circulatory and lymphatic systems, enhance nerve function, and aid the detoxification of ama (toxins) from the body.

This therapy derives its origins from Snehana, which means “oleation” or “lubrication.” Snehana is of two types:

Internal Snehana (Sneha Pana): Consuming medicated oils as part of treatment.
External Snehana (Abhyanga): Applying warm medicated oil over the body.

In Panchakarma, External Snehana is a preparatory step that helps bring the vitiated doshas from peripheral tissues to the gut, facilitating easy expulsion through purification therapies.

Choosing the Right Oil for Your Dosha

The choice of oil is a vital part of Abhyanga and depends on your Prakriti (body constitution):

Vata Dosha: Sesame oil, Bala Tailam, or Mahanarayana Tailam for deep nourishment and warmth.
Pitta Dosha: Chandanadi Tailam for cooling and calming effects.
Kapha Dosha: Marichadi tailam, Karpasasthyadi tailam, Sahacharadi tailam to stimulate and energize the body.

By selecting the appropriate oil and practicing Abhyanga regularly, you can maintain harmony in your doshas and prevent imbalances before they develop into disease.

Benefits of Abhyanga

Regular practice of Abhyanga offers profound physical and mental benefits:

Deeply nourishes the skin – Herbal oils penetrate deeply, improving hydration and giving a healthy glow.
Reduces stress and anxiety – Calms the nervous system and promotes mental clarity.
Improves circulation and detoxification – Enhances blood flow and supports lymphatic drainage.
Boosts immunity – Strengthens the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Supports joint and muscle health – Relieves stiffness and relaxes muscles.
Promotes restful sleep – Soothes the body and mind, aiding better sleep.

The Seven Positions of Abhyanga

To experience the full benefits of Abhyanga, Ayurveda recommends performing the massage in seven specific positions:

1. Sitting Position – Begin by massaging the head and face while sitting comfortably with both legs extended.

2. Supine Position (Lying on the Back) – Massage the front of the body, including the chest, abdomen, and legs.

3. Left Lateral Position – Turn to the left and massage the left side of the body.

4. Prone Position (Lying on the Stomach) – Focus on the back, spine, and back of the legs.

5. Right Lateral Position – Turn to the right and repeat the same strokes.

6. Supine Position (Repeat) – Massage again on the front side to ensure full coverage.

7. Sitting Position (Repeat) – Conclude by gently massaging the head, shoulders, and arms.

These positions ensure that the entire body receives nourishment and the flow of energy (prana) remains unobstructed.

Experience Authentic Abhyanga at Sitaram Beach Retreat

Let the healing power of touch melt away your stress. At Sitaram Beach Retreat, experience Abhyanga in its purest form guided by Ayurvedic tradition and performed by skilled therapists using medicated herbal oils.

Nestled by the serene shores of Thrissur, our retreat offers the perfect setting for holistic rejuvenation. Whether you seek relaxation, detoxification, or overall well-being, our therapies combine authentic Ayurveda with the tranquility of nature.

Book your Abhyanga session today and rediscover balance, vitality, and inner calm.

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