Massage stimulates blood circulation, soothes joint pain and tones the skin.
The skin alone mobilizes almost 70% of blood circulation, hence the instant effectiveness of massage in alleviating circulatory difficulties. What's more, when the epidermis is stimulated, it sends positive messages of well-being and soothing to the brain.
This is why self-massage is so useful for migraines, stomach aches, colds, joint pain, etc. Massage also provides elasticity to muscles and ligaments, and strengthens bones.
In India, the entire body is massaged, from head to toe. It's both a ritual and a tradition. Mothers massage babies until they're old enough to do it themselves, at which point it's a matter of course. This daily ritual takes around 15 minutes and keeps you feeling good for at least 24 hours!
As you can see, for lasting and, above all, complete well-being, start each day with an Ayurvedic self-massage (or Abhyanga). As it's performed using oil, it's best to do it before bathing or showering, to feel the benefits without a greasy sensation on the body.
Practice of self-massage (Abhyanga)
1. Start by massaging your scalp with small circular movements.
Press firmly with fingertips.
2. Then move on to the face and neck.
Put a drop of oil in the palm of your hands and apply to your face, ears and neck.
Be more delicate than with the rest of your body, and don't forget any skin cells, even the back of your ears, which you'll knead between two fingers.
3. Recharge with oil and massage your arms, shoulders and legs vigorously.
Start with wide, then more concentric movements to stimulate the functioning of your limbs.
Pay particular attention to the joints that will support you all day and need this early-morning wake-up call.
4. Then move on to your stomach, chest and all the parts of your back you can reach with a gentler treatment, to nourish your skin rather than stimulate it.
Insist gently on your stomach if you have digestive problems, as this will also help your intestinal transit.
Finally, massage your feet and hands, not forgetting between the fingers, which you can gently stretch as you massage. The extremities are particularly important to massage, to ensure good circulation in the fine channels. Once you've completed this morning operation, you'll probably want to remove the excess oil.
5. Then slip into a warm shower and use a non-irritating soap to wash yourself.
This new ritual will get your day off to a great start !
Source Le journal de l'Ayurveda
