Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Abhyanga (අභ්‍යංග) (Reflexology Massage) Therapy

 Abhyanga is a type of massage performed with oil, often warmed between the palms before application.

It’s derived from the Sanskrit words anga (movement) and abhi (different, against, or contrary)

The California College of Ayurveda notes that abhyanga is also called snehana, which means “to nurture or love.” This seems fitting, because that’s exactly what you’re doing when you take the time to mindfully, slowly massage warm oil into your skin.

Abhyanga is a practice in ayurvedic medicine from India, one of the oldest medical systems in the world, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). This traditional medical system approaches health in a holistic way, such as through a seasonal ayurvedic diet, yoga and meditation practices, herbal remedies, oil pulling, and dry brushing.

Traditionally, abhyanga is one of the dinacharya, or daily practices, for maintaining health, or as part of the pretreatment procedure of panchakarma (a more intensive "detox" treatment regimen), per the aforementioned published review.

Massage can be de-stressing, and the oil may act as a moisturizer for the skin to keep it supple and hydrated. Properly hydrated skin allows the skin’s barrier to stay intact, which is important because the skin is your immune system’s first line of defense, notes a review on skin, immunity, and aging.

According to Banyan Botanicals, ayurveda practitioners believe that oil self-massage may also lead to:

Better circulation (of blood and lymph fluid)

Improvement in sleep

Healthy vision

Increased longevity

May Help Relieve Stress

May Promote Better Sleep

The practice encourages you to put yourself first by carving out time and ritualizing self-care; in theory, this has a positive ripple effect on your wellness. “Abhyanga is one of the most important self-care rituals. When we care for our most precious thing — our bodies — it leads to higher self-esteem and self-respect.