How to Do an Oil Massage for a Vata Ayurveda Mind-Body Type

Vatas are one of the three Ayurveda mind-body types. They are generally slim, of slight build and may have difficulty putting on weight. They tend to eat and sleep irregularly: insomnia and constipation can plague them and dryness and movement is a theme. Ayurveda originated 5,000 years ago in India and is practiced worldwide as a healing science as an adjunct therapy. Dry skin, dry hair, talkative by nature and moving all the time are traits of bright, inquisitive Vatas. Ruled by the elements of ether and air, this movement can lead to anxiety, restlessness or irritation. Performing an abhyangana, or oil massage, is therapeutic for everyone, Vatas in particular. Using coconut or avocado oil mixed with canola, soy or olive oil makes for a body oil that can be applied to clean skin in the morning.

Instructions

• 1

  Dry brush your skin. Using a natural bristle brush that is stiff but not rigid, lightly brush your dry skin all over the body. Move in the direction from feet to legs, to the waist, chest, face. Dry brush the back body from heels to legs, hips, back and neck. Doing this will remove dry skin and keep your skin healthy by sloughing off dead skin cells.

• 2

  Shower and cleanse with a mild soap such as unscented glycerin or castile soap. Pat dry.

• 3

  Warm 2 tbsp. of canola, olive or soy oil in a small pan. Remove from heat. Allow to cool a little and add 1 tbsp. of avocado or coconut oil, stirring to blend.

• 4

  Step back into the bathtub or on towels, so as to not drip oil on your floor. Pour a little oil into your palm and apply to the feet, to the legs, waist and chest. Add more to the heels, legs, hips, back and neck. Skip the face as these oils are heavy. Use a light jojoba oil with lavender for the face.

• 5

  Distribute the oil evenly over the skin and wrap yourself in a warm bathrobe. Sit and sip a cup of herbal teas made from spearmint, ginger, peppermint or chamomile. Rest for at least 10 minutes.

• 6

  Shower off and rinse away the oil from your skin. Apply moisturizer and sunscreen as normal.