The Abhyanga massage is one of the most traditional. It was developed by the Ayurveda Medicine; it so is an element of the procedures of this ancient medicine.

Abhyanga

The Abhyanga massage is one of the most traditional. It was developed by the Ayurveda Medicine; it so is an element of the procedures of this ancient medicine.

The Abhyanga massage - using as a technique the application of natural oil, in large quantity, poured on the skin through massages - has had an important role through thousand of years in the health treatments of the Therapy and Ayurveda Medicine. Besides the benefits of nurturing and hydration the skin, it permits treatment of dosha Vata excesses, weakness and emaciation of the lungs, bones and nervous system. It’s suggested for any age; helps revert the effects of overindulgence, irregularity and lowliness.

Today the Abhyanga massage is part of the available treatments that are offered by Spas, health spaces and thermal resorts around the world. The Ayurveda therapy is beginning to be, for people aware of their health, a daily routine.

To begin an Ayurvedic treatment it is necessary to seek advice from a certified therapist that will indicate which type of massages and complements are specified for the client, so he may regain full health and well being. If the Abhyanga massage is specified as part of the treatment, the therapist will indicate which type of movements must be applied and what type of oil must be used. Remind that for this massage to be done the oil must be warmed up just over body temperature. Only after this is the oil applied to the body, or part of the body, in accord with the therapist or Ayurvedic doctor.

It is important to stress that this type of massage is not similar to other massages, being indicated in a specific manner to each person, and so, it may not be taught in an exaggerated and mystified fashion.

In Abhyanga massage the movements must be done towards the extremities of the body and not in a transversal style like other massages. The energy and blood circulation must be driven to the extremities. The oil can be left on the body after the massage or removed by washing up, however never before half an hour later so it may be absorbed by the body. Ideally one should take a shower two hours after the treatment. To take a hot shower or a sauna after the Abhyanga massage may increase its effects, although in some cases heat is not recommended.

In this type of therapy treatment the Panchakarma- purification treatment - may be used with the Abhyanga and a combination of therapeutic oils which will induce the tissues to raise and expel the toxins. The oils will hydrate and protect the tissues, pacify and nurture the dosha Vata and remove the obstructions on the energy channels. The therapist may indicate other powerful treatments such as Shirodhara and the Pizichil.

It was in Kerala, in the south of India, that the art of Ayurveda medicinal oils reached its peak stage. In no other place were the oils enriched by tradition, research and genius so they may act on panoply of situations and with such efficiency. Pure oils and easily absorbed, such as sesame, chestnut and castor oil, combined with herbs in agreement to the sacred ancient texts. These formulas permit, in a synergy action, reach the lower layers of the skin, muscles, organs, blood and nervous system.

As the ancient Ayurveda text, the “Charaka Samhita” and other texts of the Vedic tradition, the Abhyanga massage stimulates the circulation, improves digestion, promotes the suavity, elasticity and brightness of the skin, hydrates and strengthen muscles, tissues and joints, raises the flexibility, revitalizes, the entire body.