Ayurveda is more than a traditional Indian medicine, it is an art of living that focuses on a holistic approach to health and well-being. Ayurvedic care includes various therapies, such as Ayurvedic massage, which is not only a relaxing massage but a true care of the body and mind. In this article, we will discuss Ayurvedic massage, its benefits and the use of sesame oil as a base for massage oils. In addition, we will present the Ayurvedic massage oils associated with the doshas (in Ayurvedic medicine, the doshas are the energies that govern the physiological and psychological functions of the human being).
What is Ayurvedic massage?
Ayurvedic massage is a preventive massage, performed in the principles and tradition of Ayurveda. One of the best known is called Abhyanga, a traditional Indian massage technique that has been practiced for centuries. The word"Abhyanga" is derived from two Sanskrit words, "abhi" meaning "verse" and "anga" meaning "movement".
This massage technique uses warm herbal oils to massage the body in a rhythmic motion, stimulating the lymphatic system, relaxing muscles and improving circulation.
Benefits of Ayurvedic massage
Ayurvedic massage is not only a relaxing experience, it also has many health benefits. Discover some of the benefits that this type of massage can provide:
- Better circulation: this Ayurvedic treatment helps to improve blood and lymphatic circulation, which helps to eliminate toxins from the body.
- Stress and anxiety reduction: Ayurvedic massage is an excellent way to reduce stress and anxiety, as it helps calm the nervous system.
- Improved sleep: this type of massage helps to relax the body, which promotes better sleep.
- Skin Rejuvenation: This Ayurvedic treatment can help improve the texture and tone of the skin, as the herbal oils used in the massage penetrate the skin and nourish it.
Sesame oil as a base for massage oils
Sesame oil is a base oil commonly used in Ayurvedic massage oils. Native to Asia, it is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin E, making it excellent for nourishing and moisturizing the skin. In Ayurvedic medicine, sesame oil is considered to have warming and nourishing properties, making it an ideal choice for therapeutic massages.
Ayurvedic massage oils can be used to soothe muscle aches, improve blood circulation and help eliminate toxins from the body. Sesame oil is also easily absorbed by the skin, leaving a pleasant and soft feeling after the massage. In sum, using sesame oil as the basis for Ayurvedic massage oils can offer many benefits for physical and mental health and well-being.
Ayurvedic massage oils associated with dosha
In Ayurvedic medicine, each individual is considered unique and has his own Ayurvedic constitution. He possesses the 3 vital energies (also called dosha) in a particular proportion. These three doshas are vata, pitta and kapha and have specific characteristics. They impact our body in different ways. Ayurvedic massage oils can therefore act on each of the doshas to help restore balance and support overall health:
- Dosha Vata : associated with dryness and nervousness, Ayurvedic massage oils can include sesame oil, sweet almond oil or flaxseed oil to moisturize and soothe the skin. You can add boswellia serrata macerate for the joints or Tulsi for cell regeneration.
- Dosha Pitta : it is associated with heat and inflammation, oils such as coconut oil or sunflower oil can be used to cool and calm the skin. Aloe vera gel is also interesting because it soothes and moisturizes the skin.
- Dosha Kapha : is associated with heaviness and congestion, oils such as castor oil or mustard oil can be used to stimulate circulation and eliminate toxins from the body. Herbs such as turmeric, ginger and centella asiatica can also be macerated in sesame oil for a stimulating and anti-oxidant effect.
In conclusion, before choosing your Ayurvedic massage oil, it is interesting to look at your Ayurvedic constitution, determine your dominant dosha and thus adapt your massage and oil accordingly. Massage, in Ayurveda, is considered an effective way to support physical and mental health and well-being. It is therefore an important Ayurvedic treatment that should ideally be integrated into your daily routine.
