Yoga and Abhyanga Benefits - for physical & psychological wellbeing
Yoga and Abhyanga are complementary practices stemming from the same ancient Vedic tradition of India and are deeply intertwined. According to Dr. David Frawley, an American Yogi and Ayurveda practitioner, "Ayurveda's concern is alleviating both bodily and mental diseases and promoting both physical and psychological well-being. Yet the ultimate goal of classical Ayurveda like classical Yoga, is self-realization--the highest form of self-healing. Ayurveda shows us how to attain optimal health not for enjoyment but to provide a wholesome foundation and sufficient energy to pursue the yogic quest." Practiced together. they can transform our life from mere physical existence to the sublime.
Simply put, anybody who practices Yoga benefits from also following the Ayurvedic system of healing, which focuses on keeping the physical body healthy and free of disease through use of proper diet and natural medicine. And Ayurveda's inner aspect of healing the mind and spirit depends on and prescribes Yogic practices and meditation.
One such practice prescribed by Ayurveda as part of one's dinacharya or daily routine is Abhyanga which means "massaging the body's limbs" or "glowing body".
"By using an oil massage daily, a person is endowed with pleasant touch, trimmed body parts and becomes strong, charming and least affected by old age.” - Charaka Samhita Vol. 1, V: 88-89]
Benefits of Abhyanga Massage:
A daily practice of self-massage with dosha-specific oils for just 5-15 minutes each day has countless benefits according to Ayurveda:
- Calms and soothes the nervous system
- Stimulates lymphatic detoxification
- improves circulation, of blood
- nourishes the skin and enhances its complexion and lustre
- tones muscle and lubricates joints
- strengthens the immune and digestive systems
- relaxes the mind and body
- improves quality of sleep and mental awareness
- increases strength and stamina
- promotes overall mind-body balance
- also said to increase life-span
(Read our blog Oil Massage Routine for Health and Beauty for more information on the benefits and procedure of Abhyanga)
Abhyanga is especially of great help for Yogic practitioners as the massage helps to release toxins from the body and relaxes the muscles for Yoga practice.
Abhyanga is also a wonderful way to show some self-love-- to connect with oneself. Practicing it in the morning can help prepare you for the day ahead while practicing it at night can help you relax and wind down before going to bed.
Parama Naturals' range of oils are perfect for a daily dose of self-care through Abhyanga. The unique characteristic of these oils is that they are quick absorbing, non-greasy and with no strong smells. They can be left-on the body, without the need to wash off, and best used after a shower/bath like a moisturiser, in the morning and before sleeping, for a 24x7 effect.
1. For the combined benefits of oleation (abhyanga) and turmeric paste application (haldi-ubtan or lepa), try the Parama Naturals Moisturizing Face and Body Oil. This will provide overall protection to the skin from the harsh effects of the environment and work on skin issues like blemishes, rashes, roughness, marks, scars, to keep the skin smooth and the complexion with a refreshed even tone.
2. Apply the Parama Naturals' Zingiber Body Oil for joint and muscle stiffness, to prevent injury, and for relaxed sleep. Good sleep is a must for overall good health and wellbeing. Apply Zingiber Oil at night on the soles of the feet - pada (foot) abhyanga - and on stiff joints and muscles. A full body massage with it can be done once a week or a month.
3. For a healthy mane of hair, indulge in a shiro (head) abhyanga with Parama Naturals' Nourishing Hair Oil.
Both Yoga and Ayurveda offer ways to heal, cleanse, and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Combining Yoga with knowledge of Ayurveda and practicing it suited to your own unique constitution and style can help keep you healthy, balanced, happy, and fulfilled.