Classical full-body warm-oil massage with medicated oils tailored to your dosha — a foundational Ayurvedic therapy.
What Is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is the classical Ayurvedic full-body warm-oil massage in which medicated oils — Mahanarayana, Bala, Ksheerabala or Dhanwantharam, chosen according to constitution — are applied and worked into the body in specific directions and strokes. It is both a stand-alone therapy and an essential part of Purvakarma before Panchakarma.
The Classical Rationale
Warm medicated oil, opposite in quality to Vata cold and dry nature, is classically held to pacify Vata, nourish the tissues, improve circulation and prepare deeper channels to release accumulated toxins. Daily Abhyanga is prescribed in classical texts as part of dinacharya — the daily routine of a healthy person.
Classical Indications
Abhyanga is classically associated with:
- Chronic Vata disorders — stiffness, dryness, cracking joints.
- Chronic pain, fatigue and post-illness weakness.
- Stress, anxiety and disturbed sleep.
- Preparation for Panchakarma (Purvakarma).
- Support for skin health, circulation and general vitality.
How Abhyanga Is Traditionally Performed
Warm medicated oil is applied over the body and worked in with defined strokes — long strokes over long bones, circular strokes over joints — for 45 to 60 minutes, followed by a short rest and steam therapy (Swedana). It is commonly given as a course.
Precautions
Abhyanga is avoided during acute cold and fever, on broken or infected skin, immediately after meals, and in significant indigestion. It is otherwise a gentle, well-tolerated therapy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is the classical Ayurvedic full-body warm-oil massage using medicated oils selected according to the individual constitution and condition.
How is Abhyanga different from a regular massage?
Abhyanga uses classically prepared medicated oils, defined strokes and specific direction of movement, and is understood as a therapeutic — not merely relaxing — intervention.
How long is one session?
A typical session lasts 45 to 60 minutes, followed by steam (Swedana) and a short rest.
Which oil is used?
The vaidya selects an appropriate medicated oil — commonly Mahanarayana, Bala, Ksheerabala or Dhanwantharam — for the individual and condition.
How often should Abhyanga be done?
It can be done daily as self-care or as a course of 7 to 14 sessions in the clinic, depending on the goal.
When should Abhyanga be avoided?
During acute fever, on broken skin, immediately after meals, in significant indigestion and in advanced pregnancy without a vaidya guidance.
Where can I get Abhyanga in Indore?
Rajiv Dixit Multispeciality Ayurveda in Indore offers classical Abhyanga under experienced vaidyas. Call +91-9926112344.
How can I book an appointment?
Call +91-9926112344 or visit our Piplihana, Indore clinic to schedule your consultation.
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