Self-Abhyanga (Oil Bath) Instructions

How to do an Oil Bath (Self-Abhyanga) according to my teacher, Pal Pandian:

• Oil your entire body, including your head, once a week.

• Leave the oil on for 20-40 minutes, allowing yourself to relax during

  this time.

• Apply the oil during the daytime while the sun is up, ideally before 11

  am.

• Always use warm oil and apply it on an empty stomach, followed by a

  warm shower.

• Sesame oil is suitable for most people, but consult a Siddha doctor or

  practitioner for specific oils.

  According to Pal Pandian, the following days are ideal for aligning with the rhythms of the cosmos. If this schedule is difficult, any day will suffice:

• Women: Tuesday and Friday

• Men: Wednesday and Saturday

  Avoid the following on your Oil Bath (Self Abhyanga) day:

• physical exercise, direct sunlight, daytime sleep, cold or carbonated beverages, and sexual activity on the day of your oil bath.

Oil Bath: Ancient Nourishment for Modern Life

Feeling tense, stiff, or mentally overloaded? The ancient practice of oil bath (Self Abhyanga) is a simple, time-tested way to “lubricate” both body and mind—releasing knots, calming the nervous system, and restoring flexibility from the inside out.

In today’s fast-paced world, our bodies and minds face constant stress and wear. In the Siddha tradition, an oil bath (Self Abhyanga) is a deeply nourishing ritual that keeps both flexible and resilient. Warm oil massaged into the skin is absorbed through the pores, easing tense muscles, lubricating joints, calming the nervous system, regulating body temperature and supporting the release of ‘toxins’ (Amam).

Just as a bicycle needs grease to prevent friction, our bodies need regular “lubrication” to stay supple. This applies not only to our muscles and joints but also to our thoughts—helping prevent the rigidity and mental clutter that build over time.

A regular oil bath is more than skin care—it’s whole-self care, keeping you grounded, flexible, and vibrant in body and mind.