How to Do Ayurvedic Self Massage

Co-authored by Marty Morales

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 References

If you want to enjoy a soothing massage on a regular basis, an Ayurvedic massage can be a great option. An Ayurvedic self-message can be done a few times each week and proponents believe it helps promote flexibility throughout the body. With a little oil, you can easily do your own massage. When you're done, you'll be feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Choosing and Preparing Your Oil

1
Select an oil. Ayurvedic massages are traditionally done with sesame oil. However, people use all kinds of oils, like olive oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and almond oil. Feel free to experiment with a few different oils until you find the oil that's most refreshing for you.^{[1]
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- Always use fresh oil for your massage.^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Marty Morales
  Professional Massage Therapist
  Expert Interview. 20 December 2019.}
2
Warm the oil. Use about a quarter cup of oil for your massage.^{[3]
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Research source} The oil can be warmed over the stove or in a coffee cup warmer. Do not get the oil scalding hot, as this can harm your skin. Only warm it for a few minutes. Try heating for five minutes and then checking the temperature.
- You can also soak the oil in a bowl of warm water to heat it up.^{[4]
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  Expert Source
  
  Marty Morales
  Professional Massage Therapist
  Expert Interview. 20 December 2019.}
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3
Test the oil. Place your finger in the oil or add a few drops to your skin. The oil should be warm, but not hot enough that it's uncomfortable. If the oil is too hot, let it cool down for a few minutes before beginning your massage.^{[5]
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4
Remove your clothing. Oil can get messy, so you don't need to have your clothes on while doing an Ayurvedic massage. An Ayurvedic massage should be done in a private space.
5
Massage yourself in a bathtub. You should get in a tub for your massage as the oil gets very messy. Keep the oil near the tub. This way, you can easily reach it throughout the massage.^{[6]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Applying the Oil

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Start with your head and face. Start by applying a small amount of oil to the crown of your head. Work your way downward, massaging the oil into your scalp. Then, work the oil onto your face and massage your forehead, temples, and cheeks using gentle, circular motions.^{[7]
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- Some people also enjoy gently massaging their earlobes.
- The tips of your fingers work best when doing a scalp and face massage.
2
Massage your arms. Use long, broad strokes on your arms. On your elbows, however, switch to circular motions.^{[8]
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Massage the chest. Use broad, circular, clockwise strokes on the chest. Add more oil as needed, working the oil into your skin gradually with slow, steady strokes.^{[9]
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Massage your stomach. Add a splash of oil to the right side of your stomach. Work the oil across your stomach by making circular motions with your hands and fingers. Work the oil across your right abdomen and then move across your stomach and repeat the process on the left.^{[10]
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- There are no strict rules regarding how you use your hands to massage yourself. Some people prefer to use just their fingertips, while others may prefer using the palms of their hands.
5
Massage your legs. Work the oil into your legs using long, steady strokes across. When you reach your knees, switch to circular motions.^{[11]
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Massage your feet. You should finish your massage with your feet. Use your fingertips or hands to gently massage your feet, using circular motions or strokes.^{[12]
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Let the oil soak in for five to 15 minutes. Once you're done, let your oil soak into the skin. This will help the oil absorb into your body. The longer you sit, the more oil gets absorbed.^{[13]
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Taking Safety Precautions

1
Take extra precautions when washing off the oil. After your massage, it's important to wash off the oil. It's very easy to slip when you're covered in massage oil, so it's recommended you take a bath instead of a shower. As you get into the tub, put a bathmat down to protect yourself.^{[14]
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- A non-slip bathmat can also help you stay steady while washing off the oil.
2
Spot test your oil first. Anyone can have a bad reaction to oil. Before using a massage oil, apply the oil to a small section of your skin. Wait about 24 hours and keep an eye out for things like redness, itchiness, and swelling. If you have a bad reaction to an oil, try a different kind.
3
Do not massage after eating. It's best to avoid a massage after eating. This can cause discomfort. The best time to massage is in the morning, just before showering and breakfast.^{[15]
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