Abhyanga is largely safe with minimal side effects. Most commonly, individuals may experience:

• Oiliness: Naturally, the skin will be oily after the massage. It’s recommended to allow the oil to absorb for some time before showering.
• Mild Detox Symptoms: In some rare cases, individuals might experience mild detoxification symptoms like increased urination or bowel movements as toxins are released.
• Allergic Reaction: Very rarely, an allergic reaction to the herbal oils might occur, though patch testing is usually done if there are known sensitivities. It’s crucial to communicate any discomfort or unusual reactions to your therapist immediately.

While generally safe, Abhyanga should be avoided or approached with caution by individuals with:

• Acute fever or flu-like symptoms
• Severe indigestion or diarrhea
• Contagious skin conditions
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Areas of acute inflammation or swelling
• During menstruation (abdominal massage may be avoided or modified)
• Anyone with a severe medical condition should consult their doctor before undergoing Abhyanga.

While specific steps can vary slightly, a traditional Abhyanga often involves a systematic application of warm oil to the entire body, typically starting from the head and working downwards. The 7 key areas/steps generally include:

1. Head and Face: Gentle massage of the scalp and face.
2. Ears: Application of oil around and into the ears.
3. Neck and Shoulders: Massaging the neck and shoulder area.
4. Arms and Hands: Stroking down the arms to the hands and fingers.
5. Chest and Abdomen: Circular motions on the chest and abdomen.
6. Back and Hips: Long strokes along the back and hips.
7. Legs and Feet: Massaging down the legs to the feet and toes. Each step focuses on specific marma points and lymphatic pathways for maximum therapeutic effect.

Abhyanga offers numerous benefits including deep relaxation, stress reduction, improved circulation, detoxification, nourished skin, relief from muscle and joint pain, better sleep, enhanced immunity, and overall balance of the body’s doshas.