Abhyanga - Full Body Oil Massage

Basically, abhyanga is applying warm oil to the body. Even though it is referred to as a massage, that is not exactly correct. The purpose of a traditional massage is to manually manipulate the muscles while an abhyanga has a very different purpose which is to get the oil into the body through the skin. Oil is used in an ordinary massage to reduce friction—to provide “glide” when working the muscles. But with an abhyanga, the oil is the main point of the massage. The oil is applied and rubbed into the skin to absorb it and nourish and cleanse the tissues of built-up toxins.

The techniques used are quite different from the usual Swedish, deep tissue, or sports massage. As the aim of Abhyanga is to ensure maximum absorption of the oil, you should not expect a therapist to apply deep pressure to break down the ‘knots’.

Abhyanga should not be received if you are suffering from indigestion, low Agni (digestive power), acute fever, cold or mucous problems. It is also contra-indicated if Pitta is very high such as in cases of inflammation, high blood pressure, bleeding, burns. etc.

Abhyanga warms up the body and increases blood circulation. It can therefore increase the blood flow during your period. If you have a heavy menstrual flow, you should avoid receiving a full body Abhyanga as it may make your flow even heavier. During this time, you can go for localised massages such as Shirobhyanga (head massage) or Mukhobhyanga (face massage). If your menstrual flow tends not to be too heavy, then you can receive a full-body Abhyanga.

Absolutely! To receive the most benefit I recommend getting regular treatments. Weekly massage is highly recommended.

Most massages require you to lie supine and prone. Lying prone is not comfortable on a full tummy. It is therefore best not to eat 2 hours beforehand (especially heavy meals).

However, if you are very hungry, it’s better to have a small snack so that you aren’t distracted by a hungry tummy during your treatment.

Always arrive at least 10-15 minutes early so that you can check in and relax before your treatment. If having an Ayurvedic Massage you will be massaged with special herbs and oils, so it is best not to wear perfume, heavy aftershave, or strongly scented lotions that might interfere with the treatment. Ideally, make-up should also be removed prior to the treatment.

Please wear something comfortable, but in the case of an Oil Massage, I suggest that you don’t wear expensive clothing that could get stained. I can provide you with single-use underwear for body treatments (you are welcome to wear your own underwear but please be advised that it may become stained with oil). In order to preserve your modesty at all times, the technique of draping is used at all times where only the body part being worked on is exposed.

You can wash the oil from your body and hair but it is recommended to leave it on and let your body absorb it. Showering before bedtime is fine as it allows oils to get absorbed fully. When you shower, avoid using soap on the body but you can use shampoo to remove the oil from your hair if it bothers you.

It is recommended to take rest after the treatment to allow the body to process the benefits of the massage. Eat a simple and easy-to-digest meal such as Khichdi, rice, and lentils or soup, and spend time relaxing with loved ones. Item description

At this time, I do not offer this treatment for clients that are pregnant.

Yes, it is important for me to be fully aware of all your current medical conditions, including pregnancy or suspected pregnancy, because in some cases massage therapy is contraindicated. Please advise me prior to booking a treatment if you are currently experiencing any of the following:

Infectious skin condition or skin condition with itching, oozing, redness or hives; scalp infection/dandruff; open cut or wound; severe bruising; high temperature or fever; cold or flu virus/cough; hyperacidity; gout; auto-immune disorder; diabetes (Type 1); severe circulatory disorder; heart condition; epilepsy; thrombosis or embolism; recent injury/surgery; recent scar tissue.

A shorter version of this treatment can be given to children above the age of 5. A family member must be present in the treatment room. For children younger than 5, the family must administer it at home as a daily ritual. 

Simple answer; no… absolutely not (so please don’t embarrass yourself by asking).