अभ्यङ्गमाचरेन्नित्यं, स जराश्रमवातहा। दृष्टिप्रसादपुष्ट्यायुः स्वप्नमुत्वक्त्वदार्व्यकृत् ॥8 ॥
शिरः श्रवणपादेषु तं विशेषेण शीलयेत् । वर्ज्योऽभ्यङ्गः कफग्रस्तकृतसंशुद्धयजीर्णिभिः ॥ 9 ॥
- – ASHTANG HRUDAY SUTRASTHAN CHAPTER 2 – DINCHARYA ADHYAAY
In the realm of holistic wellness, Ayurveda stands as a beacon of ancient wisdom, nurturing both the body and the soul. At the heart of this profound tradition lies Abhyanga Snaan, a transformative ritual that harmonises your entire being. Let’s embark on a journey through this sacred practice, step by step, and understand the remarkable properties and benefits of the oils and ubtan used in this ritual, with a special touch from Back to the Roots.
Abhyanga therapy is an ancient practice that predates the Vedic period. Early humans practised life-sustaining ways for manipulating the body to produce strength, mobility, flexibility, and memory, which interlaced with the cosmos. Application of oil to the skin followed by massage in specific directions is well known by the name Abhyanga in Ayurveda. Massage in a specific direction improves blood circulation, facilitates the removal of toxins from the tissues, relieves physical and mental fatigue, improves the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, clears stiffness and heaviness of the body, and leads to a feeling of lightness. It assists in the development of a healthy body, helps in the improvement of the body’s figure, recuperates the body tissues, and reduces body weight as well as fat.
The Sanskrit word Sneha means both “oil” and “love,” and the effects of Abhyanga are similar to the effect of saturation with love. Both experiences can give a deep feeling of stability, warmth, and comfort.
Abhyanga is advised to protect the body from the biting cold of Hemant Ritu. Similarly, extreme cold as well as dry weather is characteristic of Shishira Ritu. Abhyanga is beneficial in this season to counteract the detrimental effect of the cold weather. Hence advised regularly in winters starting from Diwali.