New Delhi, October 19 (IANS). Massaging the feet with sesame or mustard oil before sleeping is an old Ayurvedic tradition, called Padabhyanga. In today’s fast-paced life, when stress, fatigue and lack of sleep have become common, this small trick can become a simple way to relax both your mind and body.
It is said in Ayurveda that by doing Padabhyanga, Vata dosha is balanced, which calms the nerves of the body and leads to deep sleep.
In texts like Charak Samhita and Ashtanga Hridayam, it has been described as a part of daily routine.
Actually, there are about 72,000 nerves in the soles of our feet, which are connected to different organs of the body, like heart, lungs, digestive system and brain. When these points are massaged with oil, its effect is felt on the entire body.
Sesame oil is considered best for massage as it pacifies Vata, nourishes the skin and strengthens the bones. At the same time, mustard oil prevents cold and cough, increases blood circulation and provides relief from muscle pain. If it is winter season, then mustard oil is more beneficial because it produces heat in the body.
The method of massaging the feet is very easy. Before sleeping, wash and dry your feet thoroughly, then take some lukewarm oil and massage the soles, heels and calves with light hands for 5-10 minutes. After this, wear socks so that the oil does not get on the bedsheet. By doing just this, the stress in the body gradually starts reducing and you start getting deep sleep.
Modern science also now confirms this ancient method. According to neurology and reflexology, foot massage calms the nervous system, improves blood circulation and activates happy hormones like dopamine and serotonin, which improve sleep and mood.
–IANS
PIM/ABM