Daily Abhyanga Practice
When I was first introduced to the practice of abhyanga about 10–12 years ago, I didn't warm the oil beforehand, nor did I give myself 10–15 minutes to let it soak into my skin. For the past few years, though, I've been doing both, and what a luxurious experience it has become.
People often ask me what kind of oil they should use. My answer is usually simple: start with whatever you already have at home. Before investing in specialty oils, see if you actually enjoy the practice and can imagine making it part of your daily routine. There are many healthy rituals we can add to our day, but abhyanga has become my favorite.
I usually warm about 1–2 ounces of oil in a shot glass (yes, a shot glass!) by placing it in a small bowl of warm water. After a few minutes, the oil is comfortably warm without being too hot for the skin.
Before I begin, I place a doggy pee pad on the floor. I've tried towels and disposable towels before, but they either became messy or still left the floor greasy. The pee pad has been the simplest solution.
I massage the oil into my skin using gentle strokes away from the heart, which in Ayurveda is thought to help calm vata. This is different from lymphatic massage, where the strokes generally move toward the heart.
Once I'm finished, I'll usually spend a few minutes doing alternate nostril breathing. Sometimes I sit, and lately I've found myself enjoying the practice while standing. Other days, I'll simply do a few gentle stretches or light movements before showering.
Depending on the type of oil I'm using, I may wipe off any excess oil before stepping into the shower. And a little word of caution—the shower floor can become slippery, and your family members may not appreciate any oily residue left behind! It's funny when you think about it. Most of us are used to applying lotions and creams after a shower, but with abhyanga, we nourish the skin before stepping into one.
There are also days when I choose not to practice abhyanga, such as when I'm feeling under the weather with congestion or when I'm on my period. I simply listen to what my body needs.
I definitely notice when I skip a day. Physically, I may feel a little stiffer or drier, but it's my emotions that I notice the most. I feel a little more anxious and less grounded. Beginning my day with abhyanga feels as though I'm giving myself a gentle protective layer—not only for my body, but also for my mind.
Perhaps you already have an abhyanga practice. Or perhaps you've been curious but haven't quite taken the first step. If that's you, I'd encourage you to give it a try for a week and simply notice how you feel. You might be surprised by how something so simple can become one of the most comforting parts of your day.
I'd love to hear about your experience if you decide to try it.
