Abhyanga: A Guide to Ayurvedic Self-Massage

By Ayurda Wellness, in partnership with Dr S. Ajit, Ayurvedic Physician

A traditional warm-oil ritual for a slower, more mindful start to the day

Most days move quickly. Making a little time for a simple, repeated self-care ritual can offer a welcome pause in a busy routine.

In Ayurvedic tradition, Abhyanga is self-massage with oil. A home practice usually involves applying comfortably warm oil and using slow, gentle strokes over the body. People practise it in different ways, and how it feels will vary from person to person. It is a wellbeing ritual, not a treatment or a guaranteed way to change sleep, stress or other health concerns.

Download the Free Abhyanga Guide

What is Abhyanga?

Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic self-massage practice using oil. In a simple home routine, oil is spread over the skin with long strokes along the limbs and gentle circular movements around the joints. You can keep the practice brief and adapt it to your comfort, space and schedule.

Dr S. Ajit describes the place of self-massage in Ayurvedic tradition:

“In Ayurveda, daily self-massage is not considered a luxury. It is considered basic self-care, as fundamental as eating well or sleeping enough.”

Dr S. Ajit, Ayurvedic Physician

A gentle step-by-step routine

1. Prepare your space

Choose a warm, private space and set out a towel. Keep in mind that oil can make floors and bath surfaces slippery.

2. Warm the oil carefully

Use an oil that is suitable for your skin and follow its directions. Warm a small amount gently, then test it on the inside of your wrist. It should feel comfortably warm, never hot. Avoid heating oil directly on your skin.

3. Begin at the feet and move upward

Apply a small amount of oil and use slow, comfortable strokes. Traditional routines often use longer strokes along the arms and legs, and gentle circles around joints. Use less pressure on delicate areas, and skip any area that feels uncomfortable.

4. Take your time

Continue for as long as feels comfortable. There is no need to force a set duration or follow a rigid schedule. If you choose to leave the oil on before bathing, take care when moving around and clean any oily surfaces afterwards.

Choose an oil with care

Ayurda Mamsa Care Oil is one option to explore for an Abhyanga routine. Read the product directions and check that it suits your skin. If you are trying a new oil, patch test it first and stop using it if irritation occurs.

For individual guidance on choosing an oil or adapting an Ayurvedic routine, you can browse Ayurda’s Ayurvedic consultations.

A few comfort and safety notes

Do not massage over broken, sunburnt or irritated skin. Avoid oil if you know you are sensitive to an ingredient, and ask a qualified health professional for advice if you have a health condition or are unsure whether massage is suitable for you. Use extra care around the bathroom, as oil can make floors slippery.

Abhyanga is a traditional practice and should not replace medical care. If you have ongoing pain, sleep difficulties or another health concern, speak with a qualified health professional.

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Rippan Sandhu

Co-founder & Brand Visionary, Ayurda

The architect of the Ayurda brand, co-creator of Australasia’s first authentic Ayurvedic skincare range, and founder of the award-winning Spa Ayurda, now part of Ayurda Wellness. A certified health coach with a long-standing commitment to the wellbeing of women and children.

Meet Rippan

Dr S. Ajit

Ayurvedic Physician

A Panchakarma specialist, clinician and founding director of Ayurda Wellness, Dr Ajit has worked as a Government Ayurvedic Medical Officer and is dedicated to upholding traditional Ayurvedic practice.

Meet Dr Ajit