Ayurvedic Bodywork: Abhyanga

Abhyanga is probably the hallmark Ayurvedic treatment and one most practitioners will learn first. (picture here along with a few student quotes from training)

Abhyanga (also referred to as snehana) is the classical full-body oil treatment in Ayurveda, which uses warm herbalized oil and rhythmic body technique to nourish the body and lubricate the joints, while stimulating the lymphatic system to clear the buildup of toxins in the body. It also deeply rejuvenates the central nervous system and musculoskeletal system.

Additional time is also spent on the fundamentals of Ayurvedic theory, the origins of massage, and ethics training through the lens of yoga and Ayurveda. You will also be introduced to the use of a mantra, or sacred sound, to create a calm and healing environment.

Participants will not only learn how to administer the treatment but also benefit from receiving the treatment, learning first-hand how special this fully immersive treatment experience really is.

Participants in the training will receive a recording of the training session as well as handouts and drawings of the points on the body where the techniques are applied.

Learning objectives: 

1. Perform a 40-minute full-body Abhyanga treatment
2. Understand the basics of Ayurveda and be able to explain the treatments to clients/students
3. Perform and teach Ayurvedic self-massage

Upcoming Ayurvedic Bodywork: Abhyanga Trainings

Be nurtured and guided as you learn:

  • Basic theory of the tridoshas (the three mind-body types) and how their gunas (qualities) apply to bodywork

  • Techniques for performing a full-body abhyanga treatment

  • How to customize the treatment to balance disturbed doshas

  • The importance of sacred sound for establishing a healing environment

  • Which Ayurvedic oils to use for the treatments

  • A brief history of Ayurveda and background information on Ayurvedic treatment techniques

  • How to perform self-massage with oil

Additional time will be spent on the fundamentals of Ayurvedic theory, the origins of massage, and ethics training through the lens of yoga and Ayurveda.

If you have already taken this training, you can find your Student Resources here

Interested in hosting your own Abhyanga training?