Welcome back to the last week of our four week series on how combat holiday fatigue and stress. Learn technique from week one, two and three.
The holiday season, while joyous, often brings with it a whirlwind of stress and burnout. In the midst of the holiday hustle, it becomes crucial to prioritize self-care and cultivate moments of serenity.
As part of our four-week series on mental health tips and techniques to combat holiday stress, let's delve into the transformative practice of abhyanga, Ayurvedic self-massage, complemented by the soothing experience of our Organic Relaxing Herbal Tea.
Ayurveda: A Time-Honored Tradition
Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic healing with a history spanning 6,000 years, forms the foundation of the practice of abhyanga.
Rooted in the wisdom of ancient Indian sages, Ayurveda translates to "knowledge of life" and is a comprehensive approach to well-being. It recognizes that balance within the body, mind, and spirit is essential for optimal health.
Ayurvedic principles guide us to understand our unique constitution or dosha - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha - and tailor our lifestyle practices, including self-massage, to restore and maintain this delicate equilibrium.
The Essence of Abhyanga: Nourishing Body and Soul
Amid the chaos, take a pause to engage in the ultimate expression of self-care and self-love - abhyanga. In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, abhyanga is a sacred practice that involves anointing the body with warm oil.
The Sanskrit word 'sneha' carries a dual meaning, translating to both "oil" and "love." Abhyanga is believed to infuse effects akin to being saturated with love, providing a profound sense of stability, calmness, and warmth.
Abhyanga Practice
Massage your body with love and patience for 15-20 minutes. Here are the recommendations for frequency and oil type, based on the doshas:
- Vata: Four to five times a week using sesame, almond.
- Pitta: Three to four times a week using a coconut, sunflower.
- Kapha: One to two times a week using safflower.
- Good for all three doshas: Jojoba oil
How to Perform Abhyanga Massage
- Warm the oil to a comfortable temperature, ensuring it's not too hot.
- Find a warm and comfortable space to sit or stand.
- Begin with your face, massaging in circular motions - forehead, temples, cheeks, and jaws - always moving upward. Pay special attention to the ears, home to essential marma points and nerve endings.
- Work your way to the crown of your head, massaging in circular strokes and slowly moving outward.
- Use long strokes on limbs and circular motions on joints, always moving toward the heart.
- Massage your abdomen and chest in broad, clockwise circles, following the path of the large intestine.
- Extend the massage to the sides of your body and your back.
- Conclude by spending a few minutes massaging your feet, acknowledging their importance with vital marma points.
- Allow the oil to absorb for 5–15 minutes, if possible, and then indulge in a warm bath or shower. Be mindful with soap, avoiding vigorous rubbing.
- After the bath, towel dry gently by blotting instead of rubbing vigorously.
Enhancing the Experience with Relaxing Herbal Tea
To elevate your stress-relief journey, pair your abhyanga practice with our specially curated Organic Relaxing Herbal Tea. The soothing blend of herbs will complement the calming effects of self-massage, creating a holistic experience for your body and mind.
As you engage in this self-care ritual, let the warmth of the oil and the comforting relaxing herbal tea envelop you in tranquility. Embrace the opportunity to reconnect with yourself, fostering a sense of well-being amidst the holiday chaos.
With abhyanga and herbal tea, make this season not just about giving to others but also about nurturing and replenishing yourself.
Thank you for joining us our series on finding serenity and peace during the hustle & bustle of the holiday season. Remember these ancient healing techniques and healing teas make powerful combo to healing and they are available to you at all times.
