For many followers of Ayurveda, daily self-massage with selected oils or dry as a stimulating „rubdown“ is part of the morning routine.
Others, on the other hand, find it extremely annoying and unrealistic to quickly oil themselves in the morning before work and then remove the intense odours and sticky paint residue in the shower.
Does classical Ayurveda really recommend daily self-massage with or without oil for everyone? Who is particularly suitable for this and who should refrain from it? Which oils are used when? Are there seasonal differences?
The fact is:
In the Charaka Samhita (Sutrasthana, Chapter 5), under the title „Ayurvedic Personal Hygiene“, it is generally recommended to routinely oil the head, ears and body followed by bathing. There is no specific description of massage techniques for oiling.
Why? From an Ayurvedic point of view, oils counteract the ageing process, they strengthen, revitalise, warm and prevent unwanted accumulations.
Oil counteracts the three central characteristics of Vata (dry, cold and light).
Conversely, the Ayurvedic texts also describe clear contraindications for oiling. The most important are: an excess of kapha, obesity, ama (undigested residues), some skin diseases and blocked circulation channels (srotas). In these cases, dry massages with exfoliating gloves, gentle brushes or powder mixtures can be used.
The more Vata dominates constitutionally or according to the current state of health, the more effective daily unctions are. Vata increases seasonally in autumn and winter, which is why regular oiling is particularly recommended from October to March. The frequency can be reduced in summer.
Conclusion:
Self-massages strengthen our awareness of our own body, keep us flexible and promote the harmonious flow of all bodily fluids. Don't see them as an annoying waste of time, but as conscious care with preventative effectiveness.
The two best oils are:
- Mahanarayana Taila - To reduce increased Vata, especially in autumn and winter, warming; alternatively, pure sesame oil can be used according to skin tolerance.
- Kshirabala Taila - To reduce increased Pitta and Vata, can be used all year round, cooling; pure coconut oil can be used as an alternative.
Find your personal frequency from weekly to daily and choose a time of day when you can pamper yourself lovingly without any time pressure. Allow yourself 30-60 minutes. The massage lasts approx. 15 minutes, after which the oil should be left on for 15-45 minutes - you can do light yoga standing exercises during this time to keep the body warm.
The stroking direction along the hair has a balancing effect, against the direction of hair growth and stimulating towards the heart. Circle around the joints and smooth out all limbs. Wash off excess oil in the shower with a mild, pH-neutral washing lotion.
I wish you much joy in mindful self-massage and body care.
With best wishes for your health,
Ralph Steuernagel
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