MASSAGE TREATMENTS
Abhyanga
The classical Ayurvedic full-body warm-oil massage, with oil and strokes chosen for your dosha. Calms Vata, eases stiffness and prepares the body for Panchkarma. Bahadurgarh, near Delhi.
01WHAT IT IS
अभ्यंग · Anointing the whole body with warm medicated oil
Abhyanga is the foundation of Ayurvedic bodywork. Warm medicated oil is applied over the whole body in long, rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of the muscles and, in Ayurvedic understanding, the channels through which nourishment moves. It is both a therapy in itself and the preparatory step for almost every deeper Ayurvedic procedure.
The oil is the medicine. Sesame-based preparations such as Dhanwantharam or Ksheerabala are chosen for Vata-type dryness and stiffness; cooler oils for Pitta; lighter, stimulating oils when Kapha dominates. The catalogue lists Ayurvedic Massage and Abhyanga separately; both use this method, with the practitioner deciding the oil, pressure and focus for you.
02HOW IT IS DONE AT AROGYA
- 01
The practitioner confirms the oil and any regions needing particular care.
- 02
Warm oil is applied to the head and body and worked in with long strokes, in a set sequence through several positions.
- 03
Joints receive circular strokes; long bones receive strokes along their length.
- 04
The oil is left to rest on the body for a short time, often followed by steam.
- 05
A warm bath with herbal powder removes excess oil.
03BENEFITS
- Relaxes muscles and calms the nervous system
- Eases stiffness, dryness and Vata-type aches
- Improves circulation and skin tone
- Supports sleep and recovery from fatigue
- Prepares the body for Panchkarma procedures
Often suited to
- Almost every guest as a starting therapy
- Stiffness, fatigue and poor sleep
- Preparation for Panchkarma
- Regular maintenance for Vata constitutions
Please tell us first
- Avoided during fever, indigestion and acute illness
- Not given over skin infections or fresh injuries
- Please mention pregnancy and any circulatory disorder
- Avoid a heavy meal in the hour before
04WHAT TO EXPECT
An hour of unhurried, warming work followed by a bath. Most guests feel loose, calm and slightly sleepy afterwards. Daily Abhyanga over several days is the classical pattern within a program; single sessions are welcome for day guests.
05IN OUR CATALOGUE
- Abhyanga Massage1 hour
Full classical sequence with dosha-specific medicated oil.
- Ayurvedic Massage1 hour
Same method with a general herbal oil when no specific imbalance is being treated.
This page is educational and describes the therapy as traditionally practised. It is not medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified practitioner. Suitability, preparation and duration are confirmed individually at Arogya Retreatt. Content reviewed September 2026.
06QUESTIONS
Common questions about Abhyanga.
How is Abhyanga different from a regular oil massage?
The oil is medicated and chosen for your constitution, the strokes follow a set Ayurvedic sequence, and the aim is to nourish and balance rather than only to relax muscles. It is also the standard preparation for deeper Panchkarma procedures.
Can I do it daily?
Yes. A daily Abhyanga for several days is the traditional pattern within a program, and a short self-Abhyanga at home is often recommended afterwards.