Wanna Know What I Do in the Shower?

I rub warm oil all over my body...and here's why you might want to do it too:

In Ayurveda it's part of the daily routine. It nourishes the skin, relaxes the nervous system, removes impurities from the plasma + blood & feeds the inner tissues of the body. 

In the same way that a machine needs greasing, the body loves to be oiled for sheer pleasure as well as to protect it against the ravages of the environment & time.

This sounds weird. What kind of oil do you want me to use?

Ayurveda has specific oil recommendations based on a person's body type.  A simple questionnaire can help you determine which body type is most lively in your nature. Answer the questions as honestly as possible and see how you score. Here are a couple for you to try:

Dosha Quiz 1
Dosha Quiz 2
Dosha Quiz 3

If you've taken the quiz and determined your type, look at the list below. Use the suggested oil that corresponds to your type. (Yes, it does seem awkward the first few times you take oil from your kitchen into the bathroom and start massaging your body with it. But, after a while, one you start seeing the positive effects of glowing and supple skin, you'll get over it ;) )

Vata: sesame oil, almond oil
Pitta: coconut oil, olive oil
Kapha: sunflower oil, grapeseed oil

note: always use organic and cold-pressed oils when rubbing them directly onto your skin

How to prepare for your luxurious oil massage

You'll want to set yourself up in the bathroom. I usually get in the tub and fill it up with just a few inches of water (enough to keep me warm while I'm doing the massage). This prevents a mess from being made elsewhere in the house. Some people stand on a towel. Whatever works for you. 

You'll also want to gently heat the oil before starting. Here's how:

• Put 1/8 - 1/4 cup of oil in a clear plastic squeeze bottle.
• Put bottle in a cup of very hot water.
• Let it sit for about 5 minutes or until warm.

Meanwhile, make sure you have a clean towel for drying off after your shower or bath, one that you don't mind getting oily.

How to perform self-massage

Ayurvedic massage is performed with the balls + palms of the hands, as well as with the fingers. I'll break it down for ya:

• Use circular strokes over the joints and abdomen
• Use up-and-down strokes over the limbs

When finished, leave the oil on for 15-30 minutes and follow with a hot shower or bath. The hot water opens up the pours of the skin and brings the oil into the deeper tissues of the body (this is why oil trumps the use of lotion - lotion doesn't nourish the deeper tissues, only the outer skin).

Give it a try. This is an opportunity to love yourself! That may seem silly, but if you're anything like me; I'm often hard on myself. I beat myself up. I have to work at being self-nurturing and taking really good care of my body and mind. This is a daily practice for me.