Diwali is more than lights and sweets — it’s a time to renew body and mind through traditional Ayurvedic rituals. One such ritual is the Diwali Abhyanga Snan (Ayurvedic oil bath), which helps counter winter dryness, balance Vata dosha, and enhance your natural glow. In this guide, you’ll learn what Abhyanga Snan is, how to do it step-by-step, its Ayurvedic benefits, and essential tips — plus, you’ll get suggestions for an Abhyanga ritual kit to make your Diwali experience nourishing and grounded.
In this guide, you’ll learn what Abhyanga Snan is, how to do it step-by-step, its Ayurvedic benefits, and essential tips — plus suggestions for an Abhyanga ritual kit to make your Diwali experience nourishing and grounded.
Do you remember sitting with your mother, making Rangolis, or bursting crackers with friends? Just like those sweet memories, Abhyanga Snan is a timeless ritual where you enjoy a gentle massage with herbal oils, feeling rejuvenated inside and out.
What's in This Guide
- What is Abhyang Snan ? (Ayurvedic Perspective & Its Significance in Diwali)
- How to do Abhyanga Snan?
- Tips for Abhyanga Snan
- What are the Benefits of Abhyanga Massage?
What Is Abhyanga Snan? (Ayurvedic Perspective & Its Significance in Diwali)
Abhyanga Snan, also called the Ayurvedic oil bath, combines a therapeutic full-body massage with a warm herbal bath. Traditionally performed before festivals like Diwali, it helps:
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Detoxify the body
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Nourish and hydrate the skin
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Balance Vata dosha, especially in Hemant Rutu (winter season)
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Promote relaxation, mental clarity, and overall wellness
After Sharad Pournima, temperatures drop, and Hemant Rutu begins, leading to dry skin, joint stiffness, and increased Vata. Ayurveda recommends following Rutucharya, the seasonal regimen, which naturally aligns with the Diwali self-care rituals.
According to Acharya Vagbhata, Abhyanga Snan is beneficial year-round but is especially crucial in Hemant Rutu to combat dryness and cold. While daily practice may not always be possible, once-a-week Abhyanga Snan is ideal during this season.
Step-by-Step Guide to Diwali Abhyanga Snan
Abhyanga Snan is a complete ritual that includes an Abhyanga massage, a Ubtan powder massage, and a warm bath. Let's follow the steps.
Step 1: Select the Right Oil
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Use warm, natural oils like Charya Face Oil or sesame-based Ayurvedic oils.
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Slightly warming the oil improves absorption and comfort.
Step 2: Full-Body Abhyanga Massage
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Massage the oil gently all over the body, starting from face→ neck → shoulders → arms → chest → belly → back → legs.
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Use upward and circular strokes for muscles and joints.
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Duration: 15–35 minutes, depending on time availability.
Step 3: Kansa Gua Sha Facial Massage (Optional but Recommended)
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After massaging your body, use a Kansa Gua Sha for the face and neck.
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Glide gently in upward strokes to stimulate circulation, reduce puffiness, and enhance natural radiance.
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Tip: Pair this step with your Self-Care Ritual Bundle for a complete, rejuvenating Diwali self-care experience.
Step 4: Kansa Wand Body Massage (Optional)
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While your skin is still oiled from Step 2, gently use the Kansa Wand on joints, shoulders, arms, and legs.
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The oil allows smooth gliding, enhances circulation, and helps release tension.
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Tip: Incorporate this step with your Daily Ritual Bundle for regular self-care beyond Diwali.
Step 5: Apply Ubtan Powder
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Mix Charya Ubtan Powder with milk for dry skin or rose water for oily skin.
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Massage gently all over the body for exfoliation, moisturization, and skin glow.
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Ingredients like Ushir, Anantamul, and Yashtimadhu enhance Ayurvedic benefits.
Step 6: Warm Bath
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Rinse with warm water to open pores and allow oil absorption.
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Use Charya Ayurvedic Soap for additional cleansing benefits.
Tips for Abhyanga Snan
- Abhyanga massage is usually done by gently rubbing in a downward direction, following the natural growth of hair on your arms and legs.
- It's best to do Abhyanga Snan on an empty stomach and also make sure that the food consumed the previous day has been digested properly.
- Abhyanga massage and Snan aren’t just for Diwali; it can be great for your daily routine, especially during winter.
- Abhyanga massage should be done for at least 15 minutes, but you can extend it up to 35 minutes for maximum benefits.
- It’s best to use warm oil for your Abhyanga massage during Diwali and Hemant Rutu.
NOTE - If you can’t do a full-body Abhyanga, you can still focus on important areas like your head, nostrils, ears, belly button, palms, and the soles of your feet.
Top Benefits of Abhyanga Snan
1. Reduces Fatigue & Balances Vata Dosha
The gentle oil massage calms the nervous system, reduces physical exhaustion, and helps balance Vata dosha — especially beneficial during the dry, cold winter- Hemant Ritu.
2. Deep Skin Hydration & Improved Elasticity
The medicated Ayurvedic oils penetrate deep into the skin layers, providing intense nourishment. They help restore suppleness, prevent flaking or tightness, and keep the skin soft and radiant throughout winter.
3. Better Sleep & Mental Relaxation
Massaging the scalp and body during Abhyanga Snan activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting mental calmness and restful sleep — helping you feel refreshed and balanced.
4. Muscle Relaxation & Improved Circulation
The rhythmic massage strokes loosen tight muscles, enhance blood circulation, and relieve joint stiffness or aches that often arise in cooler weather, improving overall body flexibility and comfort.
You may also like: Ayurvedic guide to healthy and radiant skin!
Conclusion
Abhyanga Snan is a soothing, festive ritual that revitalizes the body, hydrates skin, and balances Vata dosha during Hemant Rutu. Taking time for this Ayurvedic oil bath helps you stay connected to tradition while caring for your body and mind.
Celebrate Diwali with the warmth and glow of Abhyanga Snan, and embrace wellness alongside the festivities.
