August 06, 2025

44. Is Your Skin Dry, Stressed, or Aging? Ayurveda Has an Oil for That

26 minutes

In this practical and passionate solo episode, Kate O’Donnell unpacks the Ayurvedic ritual of oil massage—known as Abhyanga—and shares everything you need to know to make it a regular part of your wellness routine. Whether you’re looking to improve your skin, calm your nerves, age with grace, or detox gently, this episode offers a complete guide to integrating this timeless practice into your life. Kate walks you through the how, why, and when of oil massage, including shortcuts, contraindications, and her favorite oils for every body type.

What You’ll Learn

How Ayurvedic oil massage nourishes skin, nerves, and the lymphatic system

Why morning is the ideal time for Abhyanga—and when evening is better

The difference between sesame, coconut, almond, and herbal oils

A simple step-by-step massage guide (including the “quickie” version)

When not to oil (hint: indigestion, menstruation, and more)

Why sneha means both oil and love in Sanskrit—and what that means for your practice

How to upgrade your shower routine into a healing ritual

Travel tips for keeping your oiling practice alive on the go

Common misconceptions about using grocery store oils

Links to Kate’s favorite oils (with discount codes!)

Resources + Links

🌿 Kate’s Favorites Page (Massage Oils + Discounts): https://ayurvedicliving.institute/our-favorites

📩 Contact Kate: [email protected]

📸 Instagram: @kateodonnell.ayurveda

Call to Action

Feeling inspired? Try oil massage this week and tell us how it goes! Send your questions or share your experience via Instagram @kateodonnell.ayurveda or by email. And stay tuned for next week’s episode on Ayurvedic hair health—yes, more oils are involved!

Health Disclaimer

The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.

Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org

Women's Health Collection: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/collections/womens-healthhttps://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/products/courses/copy-of-fall-community-cleanse-2024

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Osi Oils. These handcrafted, organic oils are rooted in Ayurvedic tradition and thoughtfully formulated to support your skin, your senses, and your dosha. Get 20% off at https://www.osioils.com/?ref_cca=kateodonnell with the code AYURVEDA20.

Acknowledge, makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your 1st order at https://acknowledge.co

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By Kate O’Donnell

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