Jan 15 • Grounding Practices
Abhyanga: The Ayurvedic Ritual Your Nervous System Needs
Daily self-massage (Abhyanga) is one of Ayurveda’s most grounding practices —nourishing the skin, calming the mind, and strengthening immunity.
Why Abhyanga Works:
* Calms Vata dosha → reduces anxiety, restlessness, and dryness
* Improves circulation + lymphatic flow → boosts immunity and energy
* Deeply nourishes tissues → supports glow, vitality, and resilience (ojas)
* Enhances sleep → especially when done in the evening
* Balances the nervous system → encourages parasympathetic “rest + restore” mode
How to Do Abhyanga: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
- Warm your oil. Place your oil bottle in a mug of hot water for a few minutes —warm oil is more soothing + grounding.
- Set the space. Dim lights, breathe deeply, slow down. This is a ritual of self-connection.
- Start at the scalp. Use fingertips to massage in circular motions. Great for calming the mind + improving sleep.
- Face + neck. Gentle upward strokes on the face; longer strokes down the neck.
- Arms + legs. Use long, downward strokes on bones and circular strokes on joints. Move from extremities toward the heart.
- Abdomen. Massage in clockwise circles to support digestion.
- Feet last (but not least). Spend extra time here—foot massage grounds the entire nervous system.
- Let the oil soak in. Rest 10–20 minutes in warmth and steam. Allow the oils to penetrate the tissues.
- Warm shower. Rinse gently without soap on the arms and legs to leave a light layer of nourishment on the skin.
Choosing Your Oil: Qualities + Dosha Benefits
Use oils based on season, skin type, and what your body-mind needs.
Sesame Oil — Warming, Heavy, Grounding
- Best for Vata or cold seasons
- Deeply calming for anxiety, dryness, and overthinking
- Feels like a warm hug for the nervous system
Coconut Oil — Cooling, Light, Soothing
- Best for Pitta or hot climates
- Reduces heat, inflammation, irritability
- Great for sensitive skin
Sunflower Oil — Neutral, Light, Balancing
- Excellent tridoshic (good for all doshas)
- Absorbs easily, won’t feel too heavy
- A supportive everyday option
Ghee — Nourishing, Softening, Rejuvenating
- Ideal for dry, depleted, or aging skin
- Builds Ojas (vitality)
- Lovely for face massage or winter rituals
Herbal Infused Oils
(ashwagandha, brahmi, shatavari, bala)
- Add targeted support: stress relief, rejuvenation, muscle recovery, hormonal balance
Remember, Abhyanga isn’t just skincare; it’s self-love in action. Think of it as meditation through touch. It teaches the body safety, the mind stillness, and the heart softness.
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Abhyanga: The Ayurvedic Ritual Your Nervous System Needs
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