Ayurvedic massage, known as Abhyanga, is a therapeutic practice originating from India that differs significantly from conventional Western massage. This ancient technique involves the liberal application of warm, medicated herbal oils to the entire body, from the scalp to the soles of the feet. The oil is intentionally used in generous quantities to nourish the skin, penetrate tissues, and facilitate the body’s natural detoxification processes, not just to reduce friction during the massage. This deep saturation with therapeutic oils means that preparation and clothing choices are unique for this treatment. Understanding what to wear ensures you receive the full benefits of this balancing therapy.
Attire During the Massage Session
The core purpose of Abhyanga is to bathe the body in warm, customized herbal oils, which necessitates direct skin contact over almost the entire surface area. For this reason, the client generally undresses completely or down to minimal undergarments before lying on the massage table. The therapist’s ability to apply the oil with long, uninterrupted strokes along the limbs and torso is directly related to the effectiveness of the treatment.
Most Ayurvedic centers and spas provide disposable underwear or paper garments for you to wear during the session, which helps maintain modesty while allowing the therapist access to the full body. These disposable items are intended to be saturated with oil and discarded immediately following the session. While you may choose to keep your own underwear on, be aware that the medicated oils will likely stain and potentially ruin the fabric.
Throughout the entire process, your modesty is maintained through careful professional draping using towels or sheets. Only the specific area of the body being actively massaged is uncovered at any given time. The therapist will guide you on how to position yourself and manage the draping, ensuring you feel comfortable and secure.
Practical Preparation and Arrival Wear
Choosing the right clothing for your arrival is a proactive step that prevents oil-related stress after the treatment. Your travel clothes should be comfortable and loose-fitting, designed to slip on easily over an oil-slicked body. Tight or restrictive garments will be difficult to put on and can wick away the beneficial oils from your skin prematurely.
It is highly advisable to wear dark-colored clothing or older items that you do not mind potentially staining. Aged sesame oil, a common base for medicated Abhyanga oils, can leave a persistent mark on lighter-colored or delicate fabrics. Selecting a simple, dark t-shirt and loose sweatpants or shorts for your travel attire minimizes the risk of damage to your favorite clothes.
Preparing your accessories and hair before the session also contributes to a smoother experience. All jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, should be removed before the treatment to prevent them from becoming coated in oil. If your session involves a head or scalp massage, it is best to tie long hair up loosely or use a simple clip to keep it manageable, though it will still become saturated with oil.
Post-Treatment Oil Management
The oils used in an Ayurvedic massage are intended to remain on the skin for a period after the massage to allow for maximum absorption of the herbal compounds. The therapist will usually wipe off the excess oil with warm towels, but a significant amount will still linger on your skin. This residual layer is beneficial for continued nourishment and detoxification.
Many facilities provide a dedicated shower area for clients to rinse off before leaving, though it is often recommended to wait at least an hour before using soap. If you are traveling directly home without showering at the spa, you must take precautions to protect your personal property. The oil on your skin and hair will transfer easily to surfaces like car seats.
Bringing an old towel or seat cover to place on your car seat for the drive home is a simple but effective way to prevent oil stains. The dark, loose clothes you wore upon arrival are essential for the journey back, as they will comfortably contain any remaining oil. The disposable attire provided by the spa for the treatment is typically discarded in a designated bin before you get dressed in your travel clothes.