Ayurvedic Foundations
Oiling is a core practice in Ayurvedic medicine, India’s ancient system of natural healing. Thanks to their small molecular structure, Ayurvedic oils deeply penetrate the skin, delivering nourishing herbal properties to a deeper transdermal level and continuing on to the bloodstream, benefiting the inner organs.
This process supports hydration, lubrication, calming the nervous system, and promotes overall well-being. As your body’s largest external organ, the skin acts as a protective barrier and a sensory communicator, constantly interacting with your brain and environment. Oiling the body keeps this communication open and at an inner conscious level.
How Your Skin Works
Epidermis
Dermis
Hypodermis
The 7 Dhatus
In Ayurveda, these seven bodily tissues form the foundation of physical existence, each nourishing the next in sequence.
Rasa (Plasma)
The essence of digested food that nourishes all tissues and maintains skin hydration.
Rasa (Plasma)
The essence of digested food that nourishes all tissues and maintains skin hydration.
Rakta (Blood)
Carries oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, supporting healthy color and radiance.
Rakta (Blood)
Carries oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, supporting healthy color and radiance.
Mamsa (Muscle)
Provides structural support and tone to the skin's underlying framework.
Mamsa (Muscle)
Provides structural support and tone to the skin's underlying framework.
Meda (Fat)
Maintains skin suppleness and. provides natural moisture and insulation.
Abhyanga Ritual
The ancient practice of self-massage with warm oils, performed with intention and awareness.
Prepare
Warm your chosen oil gently. Create a calm, warm space free from distractions. Take several deep breaths to center yourself..
Begin with Intention
Place a small amount of oil on your fingertips and apply to the crown of your head with gentle circular. motions.
Prepare
Warm your chosen oil gently. Create a calm, warm space free from distractions. Take several deep breaths to center yourself..
Begin with Intention
Pour some oil in your palms and rub your hands together. Begin applying the oil to the shoulders and neck with gentle circular motions.
Follow the Flow
Move from shoulders downwards, massaging the skin and muscles as you make your way toward the feet while using long strokes on limbs and circular motions on joints.
Honor Each Area
Pay special attention to often-neglected areas like feet, hands, and ears, which contain important marma energy points.
Follow the Flow
Move from head to feet, using long strokes on limbs and circular motions on joints. Always. massage toward the heart.
Honor Each Area
Pay special attention to often-neglected areas like feet, hands, and ears, which contain important marma points.
Rest and Absorb
After completing the massage, rest for 15-30 minutes, allowing the oils to penetrate deeply into your tissues.
Cleanse
Complete your ritual with a warm shower or bath, using minimal soap to allow some oil to remain on the skin.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Oil Massage
In Ayurveda, these seven bodily tissues form the foundation of physical existence, each nourishing the next in sequence.
Hydrates Deep Tissue
Nourishing oils penetrate beyond the epidermis, reaching deeper tissues to restore moisture from within rather than temporarily coating the surface.
Soothes Nervous System
The gentle touch of self-massage activates parasympathetic responses, reducing stress hormones that accelerate aging and compromise skin health.
