Butter Yourself Up
Self-abhyanga is simple to do, is deeply nurturing and restores balnace when you skin needs soothing. Here;s how to treat yourself:
• A warm room (ideally, the bathroom)
• 2 to 3 ounces untaoste, organic sesame oil
• 1 small glass bottle with a cap
• Hot tap water (in a bowl or sink)
• 1 old towle or mat that you don’t mind staining
• Paper towels
Warm it up: Pour oil into the bottle and cap tightyly. Place the bottle in hot water until the oil is warm enoug for your liking.
Rub it on: Undress completely and stand on the towel or mat. Pour a little oil inot your palm. Test it first on a small patch of skin; if you experience any irritation, try a different oil, such as coconut or sunflower. Apply the oil to the crown of your head, using your fingertips to move outward in circles. (If you would rather not get your hair greasy, you can massage without oil.) Apply the oil from head to toe, working downward until your entire body is anointed. Massage it into your ksin for 10 to 12 minutes, giving each part of your body adequate attention. Use loong strokes up and down your arms and legs, and circular strokes over your joints, chest and abdomnen.
Soak it in: Sit quiety on the edge of the tub with your eyes closedfor a few minutes, breathing deeply while your ksin takes in the nourishment.
Wash it off: Pat any excess oil from your ksin with paper towels. Be sure to dry the soles of your feet before stepping into the bathtub or the shower, so you don’t slip and fall. Cleanse your ksin with warm water and a gently soap. If you have oil in your hair, apply a mild shampoo and rinse well. Pat dry with a fresh towel. (Don’t put an oily towel or mat in the dryer, for it will cause a fire.) Dress, smile, and greet the day a new grounded, warm and balanced from head to toe. (Source: Some information pulled from YogaJournal 2007)
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