Abhyanga Self Massage

Stress, when chronic and out of control, has a detrimental affect on our entire system. In small doses it can enhance alertness, provide energy, and stimulate our immune system.  But when it is unremitting and constant the opposite affect occurs.  Concentration can be impaired, chronic fatigue can set in, and the immune system can be compromised.  Meditation works very effectively with this type of chronic stress. 

Unfortunately, for many of us, taking the time to sit quietly, still our thoughts, and focus on a single idea in a meditative state, is a challenge.  We may find it hard to keep still, control our wondering thoughts or find a subject or idea to focus on.  We aren’t used to taking that kind of time to be still.  Even though we understand how beneficial meditation can be to our health, it may be too overwhelming to try.  The regular practice of Abhyanga can be thought of as a form of meditation.  It is soothing, calming and allows you to focus on sending healing energy to specific areas of the body. It is an ancient Ayur Vedic practice from India and fundamental to the menopausal woman’s self-care regime.  It takes only about twenty minutes and should be practiced at least once a week. 

As you massage each area focus your thoughts on healing light, texture, sensation, thought patterns, affirmations, etc.  This inward thinking helps still the mind so it can concentrate on performing the movements properly.  You will find over time and with practice, the movements become automatic and your thoughts become more intuitively attuned to your body and what your body is trying to tell you.   

Not only does Abhyanga allow you to lower your stress levels through meditation, but it also tones and nourishes the skin, stimulates the movement and release of toxins, relieves pain in joints and muscles, improves circulation and mood, and stimulates the immune system. 

            If you are having trouble with joint pain, you can focus on sending cooling energy to the inflamed joint.   Having challenges with the organs of elimination?  As you massage the area repeat positive affirmations, such as “I love how my bowels move smoothly everyday.”    Meditation, affirmations, and massage as individual treatment modalities are very effective for healing on their own.  When combined they become even more powerful. This technique of self-examination and treatment provides you with a gift of time and healing and re-focuses your energies inward. 

             To learn more about how you can participate in an Abhyanga workshop contact Parks, Recreation and Culture of Nanaimo.  Beth will be offering this popular workshop twice on October 17, 2009 and January 23, 2010 at Oliver Woods Recreational Facility.