Ayurveda says that body massage balances the Doshas- Vata, Pitta and Kapha. A relaxing body massage with natural oil balances your body, soul and mind. Every single human being has a unique combination of Doshas. According to Ayurveda, self body massage using oil is known as Abhyanga. But now, people mostly prefer spas for massage therapy.
Body massage oil releases toxins and stress from our body and makes it energized and rejuvenated. For those who are suffering from body pain, anxiety, joint pain, dry skin and fatigue, body massage is a go to therapy for curing these concerns. Body massage should be considered daily with a good body massage oil for proper sleep, skin nourishment, energy, mind relaxation and so on.
In this article, I am gonna tell you the best body massage oils recommended by Ayurveda and its benefits based on Doshas.
For Vata Dosha(dry skin)
The qualities found in Vata are rough, subtle, mobile, dry, light and cool which is completely opposite to oily.
Almond oil
If you have Vata Dosha, then almond oil is a great body massage oil for excessively dry skin. It is not a heavy oil yet a bit greasy so it gets absorbed well. Almond oil nourishes the skin and makes it soft and smooth, strengthens bones and muscles and balances Vata Dosha.
It protects your skin from UV rays, sun damage and tanning. It relaxes muscles and gives relief from body pain.
Sesame oil
Sesame oil is considered to be the best body massage oil in Ayurveda. Most of the time it is used as base oil. With antioxidants properties, it fights any skin damage that is caused by sun damage or any other reason. It protects the skin from sun damage. Also, it helps to reduce joint pain and gives relaxation as well.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and a lot of Vitamins. So this proves to be a good body massage oil for nourishing and moisturizing your dry and flaky skin. It helps to treat the sun burnt and protects your skin from sun damage. Avocado oil relaxes your body and reduces tiredness and fatigue. It also reduces acne and treats skin irritation like eczema. For treating wounds and cuts, it is a great way to go.
For Pitta Dosha(sensitive skin)
The qualities found in Pitta are liquid, oil, sharpness, hot, light and spreading which represents that it’s light, cooling oil is best for Pitta Dosha.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is very lightweight and used for many years in the beauty industry for its benefits. Olive oil provides relief from ache, sprains, swellings and so on. It improves your body circulation that increases the energy level and relaxes your mind and body. This body massage oil also protects from UV rays and pollution.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is rich in Vitamin E that helps to fight anti-aging and makes your skin young and wrinkles free. Worried about aging-signs and wrinkles? Then try this Body massage oil for relaxation of Pitta Dosha. Coconut oil is full of antioxidant properties that help to prevent wrinkles. Coconut oil absorbs fast into the skin and it prevents dryness and keeps your skin moisturized. This moisturizes and nourishes the skin.
Sunflower Oil
We usually use sunflower oil in our kitchen but this thin and light oil is also used for body massage oil. It is better to use sunflower oil in small quantities and for less time otherwise it starts to go rancid.
This has a higher level of moisturizing and nourishing properties. It improves skin’s moisture level and enhances the texture of skin. Also, prevents aging signs and removes the toxins.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is best for relieving the body pain and joint pain. Best known for treating arthritis. It has thick consistency so it takes so much time to absorb. This body massage oil is great for nerve inflammation and sore muscles. It helps in increasing blood circulation, immunity and treats irritated, oily and sun burnt skin. Castor oil helps to strengthen body muscles and the immune system.
For Kapha Dosha(oily skin)
The qualities found in Kapha are cool, heavy, slow, smooth, oil and soft which means it represents oily skin.
Mustard Oil
This oil is present in all Indian households for cooking but you know it is also used as a body massage oil. It has thick consistency and greasiness but has numerous benefits. It improves the blood circulation in your body which provides relief from joint pain and body ache. Mustard oil is a warm oil that warms up your body but retains body heat inside. In winters, it is best to massage with this oil because it will protect you from cold. It also protects from harmful sun rays.
Flaxseed Oil
Flaxseed is very rich in omega-3 which contains anti-inflammatory properties and seals skin moisture. It also helps to reduce anti-aging signs and makes your skin youthful and glowing. Flax seeds plump and repair it as well. Also, reduces the irritation and redness of skin and makes skin firmer, smooth and nourished.
ABHYANGA- An Ayurvedic Massage Technique
Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic massage therapy that means love(sneha). Basically, this is a self massage and you don’t need any therapist. Just choose a suitable body massage oil and follow the below steps:
- Take out enough oil in a pan for massage, heat oil slightly, then take out in a clean bowl
- Sit in a relaxing place and close the room completely, avoid wind
- Apply oil to your body gently with patience
- Begin from the middle part of your body then up and down
- Massage for 20 minutes, don’t forget your ear and feet
- Take a bath and wipe your body
- Body massage should be done in the morning or before bed
If you want to try the natural massage oils apart from these then, please check out Shesha Ayurveda Massage oils.