The Role of Ayurvedic Massage (Abhyanga) in Promoting Well-being

Introduction:

Abhyanga, also known as oil massage, has been a daily practice for centuries due to its numerous health advantages and ability to strengthen the body.

Abhyanga is a form of Bahya Snehana (external oleation) used in Panchakarma therapy. It is highly effective for both medicinal and preventative purposes. We are increasingly aware of the importance of maintaining good physical health. Approximately 250 massage therapies are available worldwide. Ayurveda has its own perspective on the significance of Abhyanga.

Therefore, it is essential to clarify some of the facts and provide light on the powerful, organic, and revitalising benefits of abhyanga. Many books call various types of Ayurvedic massage "Abhyanga." Nonetheless, historical literature contains relatively few accounts of the authentic Abhyanga practice. According to several suggestions, Abhyanga should be done in the direction of Anuloma, or the direction in which hair grows. Ayurveda advises people to conduct Abhyanga on their bodies if they wish to be happy and healthy. Among the Dinacharya, abhyanga is a classic Indian Ayurvedic therapy utilised for healing, relaxation, and the treatment of different diseases. It is one of the most important daily responsibilities, along with going to bed and getting up early.(1)

Importance of Abhyanga

Tila Taila is generally recommended for all Prakruthis (body constitutions) since it is regarded the best of all Tailas in Ayurveda; it is Tridoshahara (subsists all three Doshas) and nourishes the body. Sesame oil is a poly unsaturated fat with high levels of linoleic acid, which has anti-inflammatory properties and inhibits pathogenic germs. For Pitta Prakruti or in the summer season, Narikela Taila (coconut oil) is ideal. Medicated oils are commonly utilised for Abhyanga in conditions such as neurological diseases and headaches. Shiroabhyanga involves the employment of several significant tailas, including Triphaladi, Bhringamalakadi, Chandanadi, Ksheerabala, and Narayana.(2)

In Ayurveda, the process of applying oil to the skin and then massaging it in a particular direction is called Abhyanga. A targeted massage enhances blood flow, makes it easier for toxins to be removed from tissues, relieves mental and physical exhaustion, enhances musculoskeletal system performance, reduces stiffness and weight in the body, and makes one feel lighter. It promotes the growth of a healthy physique, enhances body image, and lowers body weight and fat.(3)

Indication of Abhyanga

Regular Incorporation of Abhyanga in Daily Routine:

The regular practice of Abhyanga is recommended for maintaining physical fitness and promoting health in individuals who are hale and healthy.

Abhyanga during Different Seasons:

During the Hemanta Ritu, characterized by cold weather, and the Shishira Ritu, marked by extreme cold and dryness, Abhyanga is advised to protect the body from the adverse effects of cold weather.

Utilization of Abhyanga for Trivial Manifestations:

Abhyanga is suggested to address symptoms caused by the suppression of natural urges, which can lead to Dosha imbalance. It is particularly beneficial for conditions such as Adhovata, Shakrit, Mutra, Kshut, Nidra, Shramaswasa, Vamathu, Shukra, among others.

Application of Abhyanga in Various Diseases:

Abhyanga is primarily indicated in diseases with a predominant Vata imbalance. Oiling followed by sudation helps alleviate discomfort and pain in body parts affected by aggravated Vata, restoring them to normalcy. This therapy is recommended for conditions such as Vatavyadhi, Shyawathu, Kushta, Switra, Rajayakshma, Twagarishta, Jeernajwara, Dahajwara, Madatyaya (Vatika), Vatika Kasa, Kshataja Kasa, Shwasa, Sheetajwara, and Raktapitta.(4)

Contraindications for Abhyanga:

Avoidance in Kapha Aggravation:

Individuals experiencing aggravation of Kapha Dosha should refrain from undergoing Abhyanga. This precaution is taken to prevent further exacerbation of Kapha imbalance.

Avoidance Post-Purificatory Therapies:

Persons who have recently undergone purificatory therapies such as emesis, purgation, or enema are advised to avoid Abhyanga. This period of abstention allows the body to recover and stabilize post-treatment.

Avoidance in Cases of Indigestion:

Individuals suffering from indigestion are advised against undergoing Abhyanga. This precaution is taken to prevent potential exacerbation of digestive discomfort or complications related to poor digestion.(5)

Beneficial effects of Abhyanga

Abhyanga, the practice of oil massage in Ayurveda, offers numerous beneficial effects for both physical and mental well-being. These include cleansing the body of dirt and impurities (Mrijaprada), enhancing skin complexion (Vranaprada), and maintaining skin elasticity (Twakdardyakara).(6)  Additionally, Abhyanga helps restore the body's natural immunity (Vyadhikshamatwa), rejuvenates bodily tissues to prevent aging (Jarahara), and alleviates imbalances associated with the Vata (Vatahara) and Kapha (Kaphahara) Doshas. It also mitigates the effects of physical trauma (Abhigata Sahyatva), relaxes muscles and relieves fatigue (Shramahara), and enhances physical strength (Balavan). Moreover, Abhyanga nourishes bodily tissues (Dhatu Pushti Janana), enhances aesthetic appeal (Priyadarshana), promotes sound sleep (Swapna Kara), and improves eyesight (Drishti Prasadakara). By enriching the body's tissues with essential nutrients (Pushtikara) and promoting longevity (Ayushkara), Abhyanga emerges as a holistic practice for enhancing overall health and vitality in accordance with Ayurvedic principles.(7)

Discussion:

Regular practice of Abhyanga, or oil massage, is associated with numerous health benefits according to Ayurvedic principles. The oils used during Abhyanga nourish the body's tissues, enhance strength, and stimulate Agni, the digestive fire.(8) Understanding the intricacies of tissue nourishment involves considerations such as the seven layers of the skin and their respective thicknesses, as well as the time required for oil to penetrate different Dhatus, or bodily tissues. While Ayurvedic texts mention seven skin layers, modern science generally acknowledges an average skin thickness of 1.5 to 4mm. The effects of Abhyanga on various Dhatus are contingent upon the duration of the massage session; a daily routine of 10 minutes is typically sufficient for maintaining overall health, whereas diseased conditions may necessitate longer sessions of 30 to 60 minutes. Medicated oils are often preferred for treating specific conditions in diseased individuals. The massage process hypothetically leads to an increase in blood amino acids like tryptophan, which can contribute to pain and stress reduction. Additionally, Abhyanga stimulates the nervous system, thereby providing positive effects on the muscular system, blood vessels, and glands regulated by specific nerves, thus promoting overall bodily health. Massage also improves circulation, alleviating pain, and warm oil application further enhances blood vessel dilation.(9) Furthermore, massage stimulates vital points on the body, promoting positive energy flow, rejuvenation, and increased immunity to environmental changes. Scientific evidence supports the notion that massage increases white blood cell count and antibody production, bolstering resistance to disease. The presence of Marma points on the soles of the feet further underscores the importance of massage in maintaining overall health and fostering a healthy society.(10)

References:

1.    Priya Jarimalli, Pratibha Kulkarni, Manjunatha B. Sunagar. Role of Abhyanga (oil massage) in daily practice. J Ayurveda Integr Med Sci 2021;4:242-244.

2.    Srikanta Murthy KR, Vaghbhata. Ashtanga Hridayam. Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi. Vol 1, 2nd ed, 1994.

3.    Lad, V.F. (2014). Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing. Penguin Books Limited. (This book provides a comprehensive overview of Abhyanga and its role in Ayurvedic medicine).

4.    Lahange Sandeep Madhukar, Bhangare Archana Nivrutti, Vikas Bhatnagar, Shailaza Bhatnagar. Physio-anatomical explanation of Abhyanga: An Ayurvedic Massage Technique for Healthy Life. Journal of Traditional Medicine & Clinical Naturopathy. 2018.

5.    Garg, Rajendra AU  - Mangal, Gopesh  Sharma, Dinesh   AYURVEDA ABHYANGA (MASSAGE) PROCEDURE - A REVIEW VL World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research ER   - 2020 DO  - 10.20959/wjpr202013-18963 JO  -World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research ER  -.

6.    Klose, P., & Miles, M.A. (2018). The Art & Benefits of Abhyanga Massage. Healthline. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/abhyanga-massage.

7.    Reena, Yogesh, Sharma Suryanarayan, Pathak Anupama. Importance of Abhyanga in Today’s Stressfull Life: A Review Article. World journal of pharmaceutical and medical research. 2020,6(1),89-90.

8.    Mittal, A., Rastogi, S., & Misra, R. (2015). Ayurveda Abhyanga (Massage) Procedure – A Review. International Journal of Research in Ayurveda & Pharmacy, 6(5), 1123-1126.

9.    Sharma, M., & Gore, M. (2023). Role of Tailabhyanga in Balyawastha and its benefits: A Review Study. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences, 8(6), 170-175.

10.  Tiglao, G.L., & Rivera, E.P. (2022). An Ayurvedic Perspective on Massage Therapy: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Ayurvedic and Herbal Medicine, 12(4), 5567-5578.

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