How Abhyanga Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety Naturally
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Stress and anxiety have become an integral part of life in today’s fast-paced world. With work to manage and personal struggles underway, it’s easy to get stressed. Although modern medicine has its answers, people are now turning to natural and holistic methods, such as the ancient Ayurvedic oil massage called Abhyanga, for lasting relief.
At Kerala Ayurveda Inc., we follow a traditional approach to wellness, using the wisdom of Ayurveda to restore balance to body and mind. Abhyanga is one of the most effective and easiest to do Ayurvedic techniques for relaxation and stress release, promoting mental clarity and overall youthfulness.
Let’s examine how Abhyanga works and why it’s a natural remedy for calming the mind.
What Is Abhyanga?
It is a traditional Ayurvedic practice in which you are massaged (or self-massaged) with warm, herbal oil. Unlike a regular massage session, Abhyanga is performed with specific oils formulated for your body’s constitution (dosha), and in a rhythmic, calming stroke that follows the energy (prana) of your body.
This practice is more than about rest — it is about nourishing the body, calming the nervous system, and balancing the mind.
How Abhyanga Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System: According to Ayurvedic medicine, abhyanga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for rest, relaxation, and digestion. The gentle, rhythmic motion and the heat of the oil communicate to the brain, whispering messages of calm and safety, slowing the heart rate, decreasing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone).
Balances the VataDosha: In Ayurveda, anxiety and restlessness are usually the signs of Vata imbalance. Vata is due to motion, that of air and space. When it’s in overdrive, you might be skittish, spun out, or unable to relax.
This nourishing practice is conducted with warm, heavy oils, such as sesame or ashwagandha-infused crude. It is used to ground and pacify Vata, thereby centering the mind and body and making them calm again.
Soothes the Nervous System: The skin is intimately associated with the nervous system. Whereas, if you apply warm oil through Abhyanga, then the oil goes directly into the body and sinks into every pore, having a calming effect on the nerve endings. This then surrenders mental turmoil, inviting calm.
Enhances Circulation and Lymphatic Flow: Abhyanga helps the body to detoxify, as the massage stimulates circulation and encourages the movement of toxins (and prana). Better lymphatic flow helps not only your body but also your emotions, allowing you to let go more easily, which is why you feel lighter and more peaceful.
Improves Sleep Quality: Sleep is often disturbed by stress and anxiety. Regular Abhyanga promotes sound sleep by soothing the mind and relaxing the muscles. In the evening, many find that a relaxing massage with oil helps them sleep more deeply.
Additional Benefits of Abhyanga for Mental Wellbeing
- Uplifts spirits and lessens emotional tiredness
- Encourages the practice of self-care and mindfulness
- Strengthens the body/mind connection
- Supports longevity and overall wellness
How To Do Abhyanga At Home
At Kerala Ayurveda Inc., we suggest adding Abhyanga to your daily or weekly self-care regimen, especially if you experience stress most days.
Simple Abhyanga Steps
Warm the Oil: Apply warm medicated oils like Kshirabala, Dhanwantharamthailam, or Balathailam.
Apply with Gentle Strokes: Work your way from the scalp downward; you should keep using long, smooth strokes on the extremities or circular motions, as discussed later.
Focus on Calm Breathing: Take slow, conscious breaths throughout the massage to encourage more profound relaxation.
Let the Oil Absorb: Leave the oil on for at least 20-30 minutes to allow it to penetrate the deep tissues.
Take a Warm Bath: Wash off with a lukewarm shower, using mild herbal soap if desired.
Kerala Ayurveda Inc.: Your Trusted Source for Authentic Ayurvedic Wellness
At Kerala Ayurveda Inc., we provide the highest quality Ayurvedic oils, wellness consultation services for all ages, and at-home resources to help you utilize Abhyanga based on life’s circumstances, all from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re a novice in the world of Ayurveda or want to deepen your health journey, Abhyanga is a simple yet effective way to manage stress and anxiety naturally.
Start Your Abhyanga Practice Today
Browse Kerala Ayurveda Inc. or schedule with our experts to determine what oils and routines will be most beneficial for your constitution.