What is Abhyangam?
Abhyangam (also written Abhyanga) is the classical Ayurvedic oil massage. In our own words, it is “the quintessential Ayurvedic oil massage and a cornerstone of its healing philosophy.” Warm, medicated herbal oil is applied over the whole body using long, rhythmic, flowing strokes.
In Ayurveda, applying oil to the body (snehana) is regarded as nourishing and balancing, especially for Vata dosha. Abhyangam is enjoyed as a therapy in its own right, and it is also commonly used as a preparatory step (purvakarma) before other Panchakarma procedures.
How Abhyangam is done at Sattva
Every therapy at Sattva begins with a consultation. Our physician reviews your health history, diet and lifestyle and uses traditional methods such as pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha) to understand your constitution, then decides whether Abhyangam is right for you and which preparation to use. Panchakarma at Sattva is medically supervised.
At Sattva, Abhyangam is performed by one or two therapists who work in synchrony.
Copious amounts of warm, medicated herbal oil, specifically chosen to suit your individual constitution (dosha), are applied with long, rhythmic strokes. The synchronised movements are intended to balance the body’s energy channels while the warm oil works into the tissues to loosen stored toxins, nourish the cells and calm the mind.
A steam bath (swedana) usually follows the massage.
Who may benefit from Abhyangam?
The benefits traditionally attributed to Abhyangam, as described by our clinic, include:
- Relaxing the nervous system and easing stress and anxiety
- Nourishing the body and supporting vitality
- Supporting blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
- Toning muscles and skin and improving overall complexion
- Lubricating the joints and supporting flexibility
- Promoting deeper, more restful sleep
- Balancing the three doshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha)
Whether Abhyangam is suitable for you is decided by the physician after your consultation. Please tell us about pregnancy, recent surgery or injury, fever, skin problems, allergies, heart conditions and any medicines you take.
What to expect
A full-body massage like Abhyangam typically lasts around 60 minutes, including the steam bath. Your physician will advise how many sittings are appropriate for you.
Abhyangam: frequently asked questions
Do I need a consultation before Abhyangam?
Yes. An appointment is required for all consultations and treatments. Your first consultation covers your health history, diet and lifestyle, and includes traditional pulse diagnosis (Nadi Pariksha), so that the physician can decide whether Abhyangam is suitable for you.
Which oil is used for Abhyangam?
The oil is a medicated herbal oil chosen by the physician to suit your constitution and current health.
What should I do after Abhyangam?
Traditionally, people rest for a while and then take a warm (not cold) bath. Our therapists will tell you when to bathe and what to avoid for the rest of the day.
How do I book Abhyangam at Sattva?
Tap “Book on WhatsApp” on this page. WhatsApp opens with the message “Hello, I’d like to book an appointment for Abhyangam at Sattva Healthcare.” Add your preferred day and time and send it. You can also call us on +91 99818 14808.
Book Abhyangam at Sattva Healthcare
Booking is by WhatsApp. Tap the button and send the pre-filled message with your preferred day and time; our team will confirm your appointment.
Related therapies
This page gives general information about a traditional Ayurvedic therapy and is not medical advice. Individual experiences vary, and no particular result is promised.