Beauty Rituals

Ayurvedic Daily Self-Massage

Ayurveda enhances health by creating a balance of mind, body, and spirit. One of the chief components of Ayurvedic therapy is Ayurvedic massage -- a daily ritual for many which incorporates a full face and body massage into their daily self-care routines. Here is how to do it!

You may first warm up the oil. This is especially soothing for Vatas and Kaphas who tend to feel cold. Massage the entire body. Start with the scalp, ears, face and neck. Then, move to the shoulders, arms and hands. Massage the front and back of torso (reach as far as you can comfortably).

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End with the legs and feet. Use your whole hand and apply even pressure. It is best to use circular motions over rounded areas such as joints, and straight strokes – up and down- on straight areas such as arms and legs.

Apply light pressure on sensitive areas. Clockwise, slow circles on the abdomen and a light up and down motion with tip of fingers on the sternum will feel wonderful and have a very soothing effect. Spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of the feet, and palms of the hands. Rest for a few minutes, letting the oil penetrate and absorbing the effect of the massage. Dab excess oil off if you like, then follow with a relaxing warm bath or shower.

Head massage

Massaging the scalp and hair with warm oil, infused with hair-friendly herbs, is the best way to nourish the scalp and hair topically. According to Ayurveda, healthy beautiful hair requires an ongoing care routine that starts with nourishment, just like your skin! Massaging the scalp also relaxes the mind and nervous system.

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Warm up the oil, if you like, by pouring it into a bowl and placing the bowl in some hot water. The oil should be warm but comfortable to the touch. Apply the oil little by little to different parts of your scalp, (using the pads of your fingers) parting your hair as needed. Then, work the oil into your scalp, using circular motions. Slow, deliberate movements are relaxing while steady but vigorous movement helps enhance energy and circulation. You can use a wooden brush or large comb to distribute the oil along the length of your hair.

Cover your entire scalp, all the way down the sides to your ears and at the back to your neck. Leave the oil on for at least 30-60 minutes, longer if you can. After your massage, if you like, you can wrap a warm towel (dipped in hot water and then wrung out) around your head to help condition the hair even more. It is also very beneficial to sleep with the oil in your hair all night…place a towel on your pillow first.

Foot Massage

After supporting our weight all day long, our feet are often the hardest-worked of all body parts! To help tired feet feel better, cool them down, stimulate circulation and also release stress, try massaging them… This can be one of the most unbelievably relaxing treats that you can give yourself or others!

Our reflex points go from the bottom of our feet to the top of our head, encompassing all vital organs on the way. Ayurvedic and Western herbs provide antibacterial, antifungal benefits in a rich, nourishing, moisturizing oil base. Neem seed oil extract and purifying essential oils keep feet free of bacteria and fungus. Other essential oils refresh and stimulate circulation in support of healthy feet and a healthy, energized body.

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DIRECTIONS
Simply massage feet ankles and calves, if desired. For an overnight foot treatment, wear socks to bed after applying the oil.