This is the application of oil on the body with the help of palms. The abhyanga (Massage) is used for relaxation, as well as giving tone to the muscles and promoting blood circulation. The regular application of oil gives longevity, strengthens the muscles and relieves fatigue. It also treats diseases of the nervous system (Vata Roga). The selection of the type of oil depends on the diagnosis of the physician and the duration of the treatment is usually for 30-40 minutes.

Massaging the scalp and hair is recommended to stimulate the scalp, nourish the hair roots and hair, relieve mental fatigue, help enhance mental clarity and focus, and balance and nourish the emotions. Traditional oils for this purpose have beneficial herbal extracts combined with the base oil for added benefit. Some herbs are included for their beneficial impact on hair health and growth, and some for their balancing effect on the mind and emotions, or their stimulating effect on the mind and nervous system. Brahmi is famous in ayurveda as a “Medhya” herb — it can help improve focus and calm the mind, promote a better quality of sleep, enhance memory, balance the emotions and help withstand the effects of day-to-day stress. Brahmi is extensively used both in supplements as well as in topical hair oils.

Other ayurvedic herbs frequently found in herbal hair oils include Amla (Indian Gooseberry), Bhringaraja (Eclipta Alba) — literally “King of Tresses,” Tulsi (Holy Basil), Ashwagandha (Winter Cherry), Sandalwood and Hibiscus. The base oil is generally sesame, which is reported to have antioxidant properties; or coconut, which is reported to nourish hair color, thickness and growth.

How it’s done — Gently warm a couple of teaspoons of the oil. Persons with longer hair may need more, to cover all the hair as well as the scalp. The oil should be warm enough to be soothing, but not uncomfortably hot. Pour the oil on your palm and apply it evenly all over the scalp and the back of the neck close to the hairline. Using your fingertips, gently massage the oil into the scalp, working the oil in for about 4-5 minutes. Ideally the oil should be left on overnight (use a shower cap to protect your bed linens) and shampooed off the next morning. If leaving it on overnight is impractical for you, leave it on for 2-3 hours, then shampoo your hair well to rinse it off. Do the massage at least two or three times each week.

Headaches, neck pain, aching shoulders or tired hands can all be caused by tension in the arms. Massaging the arms helps the arms and shoulders to relax, and can alleviate many of these problems.

By stimulating the circulation, massaging brings blood and nutrients to the legs and helps to prevent varicose veins. Gentle stroking up the legs towards the lymph nodes can help to reduce puffiness or swelling in the lower legs. Help to reduce accumulation of cellulite, dry skin and flabby thighs.

Special herbal oil is applied to the neck and the shoulder to release muscular spasms, rheumatic pain and stress related conditions as the neck and the shoulder area is so often stiff and tense. This is due to the neck muscles having to continuously support the head and also many people habitually hunch their shoulders, making the muscles at the sides of the neck very tense.

During a foot massage, special attention is focused on the tender spots. This massage produces a reflect effect on the internal organs as well as creating a combined soothing and invigorating effect. Massage of the feet prevents and cures dryness, numbness, roughness, fatigue, and cracking of the heels. It strengthens walking and running.

The Garshana massage is done without oil. Performed regularly, it is reported to gradually help break down fat deposits by enhancing blood and lymphatic circulation. This massage helps clean and exfoliate the skin, making it more receptive to herbs and therapeutic oils.
How it’s done — Wearing raw silk gloves available for the purpose, use light vigorous strokes to perform the Garshana massage. This massage can be done every day.