Warm Sesame Oil Self-Massage
A full-body self-massage with gently warmed sesame oil before bathing.
Also known as: Abhyanga, Sesame abhyanga, Til oil massage
Overview
A classical Ayurvedic daily practice. Sesame oil is warmed to body temperature and massaged over the whole body in long strokes on the limbs and circular strokes at the joints, left on for fifteen to twenty minutes, then washed off in a warm bath.
What it is traditionally used for
A grounding daily or weekly self-care practice, especially in cold, dry weather.
Ingredients used
- Sesame Oil(Tila Taila)Primary
Who it may suit
- adults
- teens
- seniors
Minimum age: 144 months.
Safety essentials
Do not massage over inflamed, injured or infected skin, and do not massage a painful, swollen or hot joint. Take care not to slip in the bathroom.
Who should avoid it
- People with fever or an acute infection
- People with active skin infections, open wounds or recent surgery
- People with severe varicose veins
- Anyone allergic to sesame
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Gentle massage is often enjoyed in pregnancy, but avoid deep abdominal pressure and check with your midwife or doctor.
Children: Use a very light touch and much less oil for children; keep oil well away from the face of infants.
Stop and seek medical care if
- Skin rash or itching
- Slipping or falls on an oily floor
- Increased pain in a joint after massage
What does the evidence say?
Practitioner use
This is used mainly within qualified practitioner practice and classical formulations. Self-directed use is not appropriate, and evidence outside traditional texts is limited.