How to Use Sesame Oil for Body Massage?

Body massage has in each culture been the primary element of well being ceremonies. Of all massage oils the oldest is that of sesame. Ayurveda reports of it’s healing and health enhancing properties which is why at home you will find it, also for beauty and body care. No matter what you are looking to relax, tone, or revitalize in your body, use of sesame oil in body massage is an addition to your total well being in many ways.

An Introduction to the Benefits of Sesame Oil for Massage.

Sesame oil is extracted from the sesame seeds which also see to it that the oil is very high in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Each of these elements has what it takes to mark it as the best choice for massage. Also present in the oil is vitamin E which in turn leaves the skin hydrated and protected from oxidative stress. What it does is produce heat which makes it the best option for body massage in winter or for cold hands and feet.

Massage in the oil, sesame oil which penetrates into the tissue deeply, which in turn eases tense muscles and removes toxins from the body. It moisturizes naturally also which in turn leaves skin silky, smooth and with a health sheen. Anti inflammatory actions will see to soreness and pain and the antibacterial action will disinfect and protect against infection.

Ayurvedic practice classifies sesame oil as a “sattvic” oil which means it brings about clarity, peace, and inner balance. Also it is recommended to use it for massaging the body every day which in turn helps in bringing doshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha into harmony especially Vata which is the dosha of movement and which we experience as dryness, nervousness, and restlessness in case of an excess.

Preparation of Sesame Oil for Massage

Before using sesame oil it is recommended that you prepare and apply it properly which in turn will get you the maximum benefit from it. We also see that heating the oil before use is best as heat brings out the therapeutic properties better and also allows for better absorption into the muscle and skin.

To heat the oil place the right amount in a metal or glass container then put it in a hot water bath. Do not microwave the oil as that will kill its beneficial properties. Once the oil has been warmed up, but not too much, and is at a temperature in which it is easy to apply, use it.

In some cases you may mix a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or rosemary which fit what you are looking for. Lavender for relaxation, eucalyptus for bronchial issues, and rosemary to invigorate. All three mixed into a blend with sesame oil may also be an excellent addition to the self massage technique.

Abhyanga the practice of self massaging with warm oil is also a great use of sesame oil. Abhyanga is done in the morning before showering or bathing which in turn is to clean the body and to stimulate the circulation.

In a quiet and comfortable setting which is free of disturbance go in. First heat up the sesame oil in your hands then start massaging the scalp with very gentle circular movements which in turn will circulating the blood and feeding the hair root. From the scalp proceed to the face, neck and shoulders using mostly upward strokes.

Resume with long strokes which flow down the arms and circular movements at the joints. As you move to the torso note the clockwise motions on the belly which in turn will improve digestion. Also pay special attention to the chest area in the middle of the heart which will in turn provide emotional balance.

On the legs do a sweep over the calves and thighs, also do circular motions at the knees and ankles. As for the feet, pay attention to very sensitive pressure points and nerve endings. Massage them well with firm pressure which will in turn ground the body and improve sleep quality.

Allow the oil to sit on your skin for 15 to 30 minutes which is enough time for it to fully absorb in. For that duration practice gentle yoga or do some private meditation, also just sit at ease and breath. After which take in a warm shower to rinse out the extra oil out. If you must remove the extra oil, a little bit of soap will do but leave behind a thin layer of oil that is very protective to your skin.

Professional Massage using Sesame Oil

If instead of self massaging you prefer a professional touch, we have you covered by also including the use of sesame oil in your massage. It is a given that all very trained professional massage therapists, which include those in the holistic and Ayurvedic fields, use sesame oil in their treatments.

In a professional massage the therapist will heat the oil up and work it in with skilled strokes which are specific to your body. Swedish, deep tissue, and Ayurvedic massage which includes Abhyanga or Shirodhara is done with the use of sesame oil. Tell the therapist what you are looking for stress relief, pain relief, or detox so they may use the proper techniques and pressure.

Professional environment also provides for greater muscle manipulation which in turn is very beneficial for chronic pain, tension or stress. Also of great value is the scent of sesame oil and the soothing heat it brings to the massage which leaves you both physically and mentally rejuvenated.

Post-Massage Care and Precautions

After the massage with sesame oil you should rest which is the best way for the body to absorb its benefits. Large intake of warm water or herbal tea has to be had to eliminate the toxins which the massage may have brought out. Also do not have cold drinks or heavy food right away, the digestive system will be in the process of sorting things out.

If you are new to sesame oil we suggest you do a patch test before your first full body massage. Though rare some people may have an allergy or develop skin irritation. Put a little of the oil on your forearm and wait 24 hours for any redness, itchiness or tenderness.

Also note to use only quality cold pressed sesame oil. Some commercial brands may have undergone refining and may also have added ingredients that reduce the oil’s benefits. Opt instead for organic and unrefined sesame oil which is best for massage.

Integrating Sesame Oil Massage into Your Wellness Routine

Incorporating sesame oil massage into your daily or weekly routine can change your life. Ongoing use will improve the appearance and feel of your skin, ease your joints and muscles, and introduce peace and calm into your daily life. It’s no longer a physical movement—it’s a self-love and self-care ceremony.
Applied alone as a meditation or blended with a visit to a pro, sesame oil massage can thoroughly moisturize your body and sooth your mind. As an established routine performed regularly over a period of some duration, the practice can be one of the most natural and invigorating parts of your health regimen.