Want to increase self-love? Consider using more oils.
In Ayurveda, oils are used for cooking, balancing Vata, nourishing the senses, and deepening self-love. Snehana, which is the Ayurvedic practice of applying oils internally & externally to the body, literally translates to "to oil the body" and "to love the body."
Oil itself is very Kaphic, with qualities that are smooth, unctuous, heavy, dull, and stable. Kapha dosha is connected with love, care, and connectedness. By practicing daily self-oil massage [Abhyanga], we can foster these feelings of love and care for ourselves which is increased through the qualities that are found in the oil.
What is Abhyanga? It is the Ayurvedic self-care practice of self-oil massage using an oil specific to your doshic needs and the time of year. Generally speaking, Vata and Kapha doshas use a base of Sesame oil (warming) and Pitta dosha use a base of Sunflower or Coconut oil (cooling). The practice looks like this:
-After garshana (dry brushing) and before your shower, apply a warm oil starting with the solar plexus/manipura chakra, moving in clockwise strokes across your abdomen.
-Continue from the ears/neck, all the way down to your feet/toes.
-Strokes should be fluid and connected, more of a gentle massage than deep tissue.
-As you apply the oil, seal in your loving affirmations/mantras.
Abyanga is nature's answer to lotion, protecting the body from the elements, especially during the winter season. It is also a chance to seal in your energy for the day, giving yourself a protective coat over your skin and being. We face many people, situations, and stress each day so using oil to create an energy barrier is a helpful way to avoid burnout and increased stress.
The use of affirmations and mantras while applying the oil has been THE MOST SIGNIFICANT practice to increase feelings of self-love and self-devotion that I have found. If you are someone who has struggled with self-love, acceptance, body dysmorphia, and poor self-esteem, I cannot recommend this practice enough. It will change how you feel about yourself and awaken a deeper love for your whole being--mind, body, spirit.
Mantras for self-love:
I am loved
I am held
I am worthy
I am enough
I am perfect as I am
--> Purchase my Mantra Deck here
Ready to begin? I have linked several products that I use for snehana below.
Glow in a bottle--Rosehip Seed Face Oil (use during the day)
doTerra Yarrow|Pom & Balance Essential Oil (use at night)
And while we are talking about products for the body, a good facial toner/mist before applying oils can help all skin tones not to break out from oil use. Check out this Wild Carrot Love in a Mist Facial Toner
If you would love to learn more about your dosha, Abhyanga and other Ayurvedic practices, consider a consultation with me, today, so we can personalize your self-care to meet your specific needs. Book your consult here and use promo code: FallinLove22 for 20% off booking during the month of November 2022.
Have a beautiful day and thank you for being here. Namaste.
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