Abstract

THERAPEUTIC IMPORTANCE OF ABHYANGA IN TODAYS ERA

Dr. Matin F. Shaikh* and Dr. Indrajeet S. Gadge

Abstract

Ayurveda is a „science of life.‟ Ayurveda described the term health as only when a person‟s mind, sense organs and the soul are in a perfect state of equilibrium to endow happiness and longevity of life. Abhyanga is the therapeutic intervention of Panchakarma in which the body is treated with simple or medicated oil. It is massage of whole body with warm oil for maintaining, caring, to rejuvenate, to improve blood circulation, strength and to have a cosmetology effect of the largest sense organ i.e., skin. Whenever there is a discomfort or uneasiness over the body, we unknowingly try to soothe it through massage. Abhyanga restores the balance of the doshas and enhances well-being. It is believed that the effects of Abhyanga are like those received when one is saturated with love. Abhyanga can give a deep feeling of stability and warmth. Vagbhatacharya stated that, “Abhyangam aacharet nityam” i.e., Abhyanga should be done regularly. Regular Abhyanga is especially grounding and relaxing for Vata dosha imbalances, but everyone can benefit from this practice. Therefore, it is also mentioned in Dincharya by various Acharyas.

Keywords: Abhyanga, Oil massage, Dincharya, Rutucharya.