Abhyanga - pacify Vata

Oil Massage or Abhyanga  - with the cold and dry winter months upon us, the nourishing and lubricating oil massage called abyanga is highly recommended.  Essential for Vata mind/body type on a daily basis as much as possible - every second day for pitta and at least twice a week for kapha types.

Organic Sesame Oil is great but might be a bit to heating for Pitta body type which might prefer almond oil.  Coconut oil might be too clogging at this time of year. It is best to "cure" an oil before using. This is done by taking your bottle of oil and putting it in a pot with one drop of water.  As soon as the oil is heated enough the water will crackle. This prevents over heating of the oil. I have known people who heat the oil so much that it explodes into flame - not a good idea.

So once your oil is gently warmed. Cool is back down and put it back in your bottle. You can warm up a bit of oil as you need it for your massage of abyanga but you do not have to re-cure it every time. The curing makes the oil more viscous and more absorbable by the skin. It become more penetrating.  

Massaging your joints - ankles, knees, hips, shoulders elbows, wrist and fingers - in a circular motions  adds lubrication and flexibility to the joints. Research has shown that small amounts of oil can be identified in the joints shortly after the oil application. You will feel the difference if you try and do you stretches after your abyanga.

The circular motion is best for the joints but the long bones - use a long up and down motion. If you have time you can massage the scalp chest and belly and as much of the back as you can reach or ask a friend to help. 

It is best if you can sit in a warm room for 15-20 minutes before showering the oil off. 

Caution - you towels will be oily - so reserve a special set of towels for after abyanga and launder them separately in hot soapy water as the oil can spread to your other clothes. Also if you can leave a thin film of oil on your skin and put on some old clothes that is also something to try.