As we near the end of summer (which doesn’t happen until the Autumnal Equinox on Sept. 22), so too are we ending our tour through the Ayurvedic self-care practices for the sense organs. Our last stop is the skin, the largest organ in the body and a powerful source of sensory input. (You can read my previous guidance on loving up your ears, your eyes and your mouth.)

The skin is a sensitive organ for both Vata and Pitta doshas. Vata’s dry and rough qualities can be quite evident in the skin when Vata gets elevated, which naturally happens as we age. When Pitta is elevated in the system, it can show up as redness, irritation, rash or sensitivity in the skin since the skin is one of the places Pitta tends to gather.

Of course, one of the most transformative self-nourishing routines encouraged by Ayurveda is self-massage with oil, or abhyanga. This expression of sneha, or love, helps strengthen and preserve skin elasticity, soothe the nervous system, reduce anxiety, prevent or reduce insomnia, and improve circulation. Abhyanga is a boon for anyone in perimenopause or menopause, or anyone feeling the unsettled sensations of high Vata.

Classically, organic sesame oil is the typical oil recommended for abhyanga (plain sesame, not the toasted kind). It is considered the best oil, and especially when Vata is elevated. However, if Pitta seems to be aggravated, coconut oil is a better alternative with its cooling, slightly less viscous properties. Sunflower oil is another Pitta-balancing option.

You can also enhance the dosha-pacifying effect by using an oil that has specific dosha-balancing herbs infused into the oil (like those offered by A. Muzda Enterprises). For example, when Pitta is elevated, you can use the “Pitta Massage Oil.” Mahanara 

Start your massage by heating the oil so it is warm as it goes on. Cover the entire body with a thin coat of oil and gently rub it in. Pay special attention to the soles of the feet, the palms of the hands, and the crown of the head (even just a tiny bit here can be very soothing and won’t require washing your hair afterwards). If you are in a hurry, just do the belly, thighs and arms – a little is always better than skipping it altogether!

After applying the oil, allow it to soak in for a few minutes – I do my abhyanga first in the morning and then brush my teeth and do the rest of my bathroom routine while allowing the oil to penetrate. Incorporating it in your evening routine is also excellent.

Then take a warm shower or bath, allowing the heat of the water to open the pores and encourage deeper absorption of the oil. It will also rinse off any excess oil. It is not necessary to wash the oil off with soap – just use soap where you experience odor. Ideally we want to have a little residual oil left on the skin.

Let me know what new step you’re going to try next time, or what you love best about abhyanga by leaving a comment on the blog!