What we mean when we say bliss: Abhyanga and Shirodhara

Do you ever get out of the shower after a long day in the sun— when your skin is maybe a bit burned, and tender and begging for moisture? So you lather up the lotion to nourish your skin and get a total ‘ick’ feeling?

The thick layer of lotion feels like the pan next to the sink that your roommate swears she “washed” (without soap)...

But how do I get that dewy glow, and relief without lathering up with lotion?!

The Ayurvedic secret?

Sneha.

Sneha (Snay-ha) means ‘to oil’ or ‘to love’ in Sanskrit. There’s a reason these two words are correlated! To lather the body in oil is like enveloping the body with love and warmth.

These therapies stand the test of time and offer a myriad of benefits for the body, mind, and soul.

Summer is a season of warmth and high energy, where the sun shines brightly and life is in full bloom.

This season calls for practices that balance the 🔥 Fire element while harnessing the vibrant energy of Fire. Summer moves us faster, so we must balance this pace with grounding, and a change from our winter routine.

So here’s how we do this:

Two powerful Ayurvedic therapies.

1. Abhyanga

2. Shirodhara

These practices deliver a wealth of benefits and are particularly suited to support well-being during the summer months.

Let's dive into the rejuvenating benefits and summer season recommendations of these transformative practices.

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Abhyanga: The Art of Self-Massage

Abhyanga, meaning "oil massage," involves nourishing the body using warm oil to lovingly massage the entire body. More subtle & rhythmic than your typical deep-tissue massage, this practice holds numerous benefits, especially during summer.

Abhyanga helps cool the body, pacify excess Pitta Dosha (associated with fire and heat), and nourish the skin.

This self-massage technique not only enhances circulation but also helps release toxins and promotes deep relaxation. During the summer season, consider using cooling oils such as coconut or sunflower that help to balance the natural warmth of the season.

The fast paced, energetic vibe of summer can cause the mind to race.

The rhythmic strokes of Abhyanga help calm the mind, balance emotions, and create a sense of harmony amidst the busyness of summer.

Shirodhara: Serenity for the Mind

Shirodhara is a deeply calming therapy that involves a continuous flow of warm oil or herbal decoctions onto the forehead (the "third eye").

This gentle cascade of oil calms the mind, relieves stress, and induces a deep state of comfort. Shirodhara is particularly beneficial for those experiencing anxiety, insomnia, or an overactive mind. Shirodhara is especially beneficial during summer when the intensity of the season can cause an imbalance in Pitta dosha.

The choice of oil or herbal decoction used in Shirodhara can be adapted to the seasons and imbalances. In the warmer seasons, cooling herbs like rose or sandalwood may be incorporated to bring a sense of balance and tranquility.

Summer Seasonal Recommendations:

1. Time of Day:
   Schedule Abhyanga and Shirodhara treatments in the early morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler, allowing the body to absorb the therapeutic benefits without overheating.
   

2. Oil Selection:
   Choose cooling oils for Abhyanga, such as coconut or sunflower, to counterbalance the external heat and provide nourishment to the skin. For Shirodhara, opt for Pitta-pacifying oils like brahmi or sandalwood to soothe and cool the mind.
   

3. Cooling Herbs:
   Consider incorporating cooling herbs like rose, mint, or sandalwood into your Abhyanga oil or Shirodhara decoctions (or a bath!). These herbs offer additional cooling and soothing properties, further aiding in balancing Pitta dosha during summer.
   

4. Hydration:
   Ensure proper hydration before and after Abhyanga and Shirodhara treatments. Drink cool, refreshing fluids like infused water with mint or cucumber to support the body's natural cooling mechanisms.
   

5. Self-Care Rituals:
   Embrace other self-care practices suitable for summer, such as taking cool showers, wearing breathable fabrics, and protecting yourself from excessive sun exposure (especially midday from 10am-2pm, the Pitta time of day).

As summer unfolds

Abhyanga and Shirodhara provide an oasis of rejuvenation and tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of the season.

These Ayurvedic therapies not only offer physical benefits but also support emotional well-being by balancing Pitta dosha and promoting a calm and balanced mindset.

Incorporate these practices into your summer self-care routine, making time to nurture and restore yourself.

Embrace the Ayurvedic wisdom of Abhyanga and Shirodhara, allowing their transformative benefits to enhance your well-being during this blooming season of warmth and abundance.

Use promo code SPECIALBODYWORK for $20 off your next appointment.