Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic massage technique that massages the body with warm oil. The name comes from the words Abhi, which means glow, and anga, which means limb.

Here are some benefits of Abhyanga:

Improved skin health: Abhyanga can help moisturise the skin.

Reduced muscle stiffness: Breaking down lactic acid knots in muscles can improve muscle function.

Promotes lymphatic drainage by boosting blood and lymph circulation.

Calms the nervous system: Abhyanga can help relieve stress and improve sleep patterns.

A massage therapist typically performs Abhyanga, but it's very easy to do it on yourself. Generally performed using movements away from the heart towards the extremities.

Abhyanga is contraindicated in certain situations, including:

• Immediately after eating

• Severe headache or migraine

• Excessive mucus or congestion

• Severe constipation

• Early stages of fever

• Directly after surgery

• During the first three days of menstruation

Don't get too technical about the oils. Coconut oil is cooling, and sesame oil is heating. If you're not sure, use a carrier oil like almond and warm it in your hands.