Discover the Benefits of Abhyanga: The Ayurvedic Oil Massage now in Zurich!
- ana vilar
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 17

If you are looking for a holistic way to relax, detoxify, and reconnect with your body, Abhyanga — the traditional Ayurvedic oil massage — might be exactly what you need. This ancient practice is much more than a simple massage. It is a deeply nourishing and therapeutic ritual designed to support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. And the best part? You can now experience authentic Abhyanga in Zurich.
What is Abhyanga?
Abhyanga is a full-body massage using warm herbal oils, tailored to your dosha (Ayurvedic constitution). In Sanskrit, abhyanga means "oil application to the body." Traditionally, it is performed as part of daily self-care or prescribed as part of Ayurvedic treatments to restore balance, enhance circulation, support immunity, and improve vitality.
Unlike Western massages that often focus only on muscle tension, Abhyanga works on a deeper level — calming the nervous system, nourishing the tissues (dhatus), and stimulating the body's internal detoxification channels (srotas).
How Does It Work?
During an Abhyanga session, warm, medicated oils are applied in rhythmic strokes that follow the direction of blood flow and lymphatic circulation. The oils are carefully selected based on your current state of health and Ayurvedic constitution — Vata, Pitta, or Kapha.
For example:
Vata-pacifying oils (like sesame oil infused with ashwagandha) help ground, warm, and calm the nervous system.
Pitta-balancing oils (like coconut or sunflower oil with cooling herbs) soothe inflammation and reduce excess heat.
Kapha-reducing oils (like mustard or safflower oil) stimulate and invigorate.
In Zurich, I offer personalized consultations before your first Abhyanga treatment to ensure the oils and techniques used support your unique constitution and current imbalances.
Key Benefits of Abhyanga
Scientific studies are increasingly confirming what Ayurveda has known for millennia: oil massage has profound effects on health and longevity. Here are just a few of the benefits:
Improved circulation and lymphatic drainage
Deep relaxation and reduced anxiety
Better sleep quality and nervous system support
Lubrication of joints and improved mobility
Detoxification through stimulation of the skin and internal organs
Healthier skin, improved tone and texture
Boosted immunity and vitality
Is Abhyanga for Everyone?
Abhyanga is safe and beneficial for most people. However, it is important to adapt the treatment to individual needs. For example, those with acute fever, severe digestive disorders, or certain skin conditions may need to wait or use specific oils and techniques.
In Ayurveda, no treatment is one-size-fits-all. That’s why, every Abhyanga session is customized after an Ayurvedic assessment or a brief intake, especially if it's your first time.
What Makes Abhyanga Different from Other Massages?
The key difference lies in the intention and the oil. Ayurvedic oils are not just lubricants — they are medicine. When applied to the skin, the oil penetrates through the pores and delivers the therapeutic properties of the herbs directly into the body.
Furthermore, Abhyanga is a sacred act of self-care (snehana), and sneha also means "love" in Sanskrit. This massage is done with attentiveness and care, creating a sense of emotional safety and deep nourishment.
Abhyanga in Zurich – A Bridge Between Ancient Wisdom and Modern Living
Zurich is a busy, vibrant city. Many of us live with high levels of stress, digital overload, and mental fatigue. Incorporating Ayurvedic therapies like Abhyanga into your life is a beautiful way to slow down, return to yourself, and care for your health in a preventative and holistic way.
Whether you're new to Ayurveda or already on the path, we invite you to experience authentic Abhyanga massage in Zurich — a treatment that not only relaxes your body but also rebalances your life.
Book your Abhyanga massage in Zurich
Ready to experience the healing power of Ayurveda? Reach out to schedule your personalized Abhyanga session.
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