Add Ayurvedic massage to your daily routine to balance and replenish your energy

Fall is the season for replenishing your ojas, the Ayurvedic term for your life force or essence, which influences immunity. When your ojas is diminished, your immunity is reduced.

In addition to refraining from the energy-depleting effects of caffeine, Ayurvedic tradition recommends more downtime, inward stillness and daily massage. Massaging your body with oils is said to detoxify and moisturize the skin, just what we need in the drier (and sometimes more germ-ridden!) fall and winter months.

Cassandra recommends standing on a towel and dry-brushing your body before applying the oil in a circular motion. Then, wrap yourself in your favorite bathrobe or towel and just chill while the oils absorb before bathing. Be careful in the shower or tub when you rinse off – you might want to put a towel or mat on the tub floor so you don’t slip!

For an easy, make-at-home massage oil, try using a base of coconut, sunflower or sesame oil and your favorite, relaxing combination of essential oils and Ayurvedic herbs. (Banyan Botanicals has a great selection of oils and herbs to order online.)

Try adding massage to your morning routine, and observe the effects on your energy level. Over time, you may notice that you’re better able to maintain tranquil, focused energy, and a feeling of wellbeing.