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Oil Massage – Ancient Wisdom Revived!

Opt for some of these amazing oil massages by knowing about the different types and benefits of each. Read on and try now.

By Sindhuja Shekhawat

Oil massage is one of the best methods to mobilize cellulite and nourish the skin. It is an underrated beauty secret. The benefits of oil massage or 'snehana', as it is called in Sanskrit, have been mentioned extensively in the ancient beauty texts of India.

It makes you glow, gives you a soft and smooth skin and moves away the toxin deposits under the skin, not to mention, it is extremely relaxing. There are many different types of massages and many different types of massage oils, some which will be discussed here.

It is something that can easily be made a part of your beauty regimen. Ideally, you will only need to do it once a week. If you do it right, you will be amazed at the result.

Oil massage gives you that inner glow because you actually do glow from within after just a few sessions as a result of rejuvenation. Other than getting a body massage from a masseuse, self-body massage is also considered a very effective practice. However, you need to learn the correct way to do it or you will end up with pulled muscles and cramps.

Benefits Of Oil Massage
1. It makes the skin smooth. Oil massage aids in exfoliation and provides the skin with much-needed nourishment.
2. It makes the skin soft and supple. The oil helps keep the tissues under the skin healthy. It also mobilizes the toxins deposited under the skin in the form of cellulite.
3. It makes the skin glow from within. Unlike body shimmers and whitening lotions, oil massage brings out your real glow.
4. Oil massage helps prevent acne on the face and body.

Snehana – Oil Massage By A Masseuse

Snehana – Oil Massage By A Masseuse

The word ‘Sneha' in Sanskrit stands for oily substance and 'Snehana' means the application of oily substance on the body. It involves the application of oil on the body by a trained person. There are different types of oil massages. Some of which are described below.

Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic Massage

It is based on the chakra system. The Chakra System states that the human body is the physical manifestation of energy swirls of the chakras. In physical terms, these chakras are associated with the endocrine glands. So, physically, Ayurvedic massage deals with balancing hormones in order to make the body healthy and beautiful. Hormones play a major role in maintaining the condition and complexion of the skin. Therefore, this massage form is especially beneficial for those looking to improve their skin tone and texture.

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage

This type of massage is mainly a muscular therapy, but it helps in maintaining suppleness of the skin. The Swedish massage is known for its ability to release muscle tension. It employs five basic movements to restore muscle and skin to their normal relaxed state.

Thai Massage

Thai Massage

This massage combines stretching and massage movements. It is relaxing as well as invigorating. The improved blood circulation enhances the complexion and gives it a healthy glow.

Ubtan

Ubtan

The quintessential traditional spa of India, it involves a combination of exfoliation and oil massage. After massaging the body with oil, a mixture of turmeric, yogurt, milk, sandalwood, natural camphor and some other herbs is applied and is rubbed off using a mixture of oil and flour. The first step opens pores and hydrates the skin. The second provides nourishment to the skin and the third step exfoliates. It is a complete beauty regimen and a highly effective one too.

Abhyanga – Self Body Massage

Abhyanga – Self Body Massage

This is the practice of massaging the body by yourself with warm oil. It invigorates the senses, ensures good hair growth and imparts lustre to the skin. The importance of Abhyanga has been stated in many Ayurvedic texts. Some have even gone on to say that it is a practice that can prevent many skin and health problems. However, one needs to know the correct way to do it before adopting this practice.

Steps For Abhyanga
1. Mix massage oils of your choice. It is best to use cold pressed oils. The types of oils will be discussed further. Warm the oil mixture and add a few drops of essential oil of your choice. In summer, you may also add some natural camphor for its cooling effect on the skin.
2. Start from the head and work your way down. Massage your stomach and lower abdomen in a circular motion with a light hand.
3. Do not use jerking movements or excess pressure on any part of your body. Do not massage over injured body parts, which is best if left to the professionals.
4. Wait for an hour for the oil to get absorbed on to the skin.
5. Rinse with a warm shower. Do not use soap and if you need to, you can use a mild soap-free cleanser.
6. Pat dry and feel your skin breathe!

Types Of Massage Oils

Types Of Massage Oils

A massage oil consists of one or two carrier oils and a few drops of essential oils. Carrier oils are cold pressed oils whose primary function is to lubricate and hydrate the skin tissues. Essential oils are potent substances that get mixed very quickly into the bloodstream upon application. That is why only a few drops are used.

A Few Carrier Oils

A Few Carrier Oils

1. Coconut Oil

It has antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It is rich in antioxidants. Thus, it makes an ideal massage oil that hydrates disinfects and detoxifies the skin. It also has a cooling effect on the skin, which makes it best suited for use in warm weather, although in warm climates like that of India it can be used throughout the year.

2. Mustard Oil

2. Mustard Oil

Mustard oil is rich in Vitamin E. It is an excellent remedy for blemishes and acne. It removes tan and lightens the skin tone. It promotes hair growth and provides lustre to the skin. It is a key ingredient of the traditional Ubtan. It acts as an exfoliating agent by separating the dead cells from the skin.

3. Olive Oil

3. Olive Oil

Olive oil has numerous benefits for the skin. It mobilizes cellulite, reduces redness and treats sun damage. It also has excellent hydrating properties. It is rich in Vitamin E. It reduces stretch marks. It is antifungal in nature. All these properties make it one of the best choices for a carrier oil.

Use oils that have been extracted through cold pressing. This method ensures that the oil retains maximum qualities as compared to other methods of extraction.

A Few Essential Oils

A Few Essential Oils

1. Geranium Oil
It makes the skin smooth and reduces fine lines. It promotes hormonal balance. It reduces redness and inflammation. It makes the skin glow and is ideally to be used in warm weather.

2. Tea Tree Oil

2. Tea Tree Oil

It has a cooling effect on the skin. It reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes. It is used to treat acne. It is also an effective remedy against dandruff.

3. Jasmine Oil

3. Jasmine Oil

This fragrant oil makes the skin soft and supple. It improves the elasticity of the skin and tones the tissues. It has a sweet aroma that instantly lifts the mood.

4. Eucalyptus Oil

4. Eucalyptus Oil

It mobilizes cellulite and treats acne. Like tea tree oil, this oil is also effective against dandruff. It also soothes an inflamed skin.

Contraindications
1. Do not do a self-massage if you are pregnant. If advised, follow the procedure laid down by your OB-Gyn.
7. Do not massage over broken or burnt skin.
8. Inform the masseuse of any ailment that you may be suffering from. The masseuse will be able to advise against getting a massage if it may worsen your problem.
9. Test for allergies to the oil that you choose to use.
10. Discontinue the use of any oil if it causes irritation or discomfort, and rinse immediately.

Oil massages have been around for centuries and still continue to be an effective but underrated beauty procedure. Regular oil massage, if done correctly, can bring about visible changes in your appearance. The fact that it significantly reduces stress is another added benefit.

Story first published: Monday, May 15, 2017, 11:12 [IST]
Read more about: oil massage body care