What is Pada Abhyanga?
Pada Abhyanga is the Ayurvedic practice of foot massage, a part of Dinacharya (daily routine) mentioned in classical texts. While doing Abhyanga (full body oil massage) daily is ideal, it’s often difficult for many in this fast moving AI world, especially here in UK, where the cold weather and busy lifestyle make it complicated. That’s why I recommend at least doing foot massage (Pada Abhyanga) every day especially in evenings before going to bed. It brings enormous benefits even if done for just 5–10 minutes daily.
How to Do Pada Abhyanga (Simple Self-Foot Massage Guide)
Choose your oil:
- Best oil is Karpooradi Thailam or any Ayurvedic oils used for massages
- In case you don’t have medicated oils use Coconut Oil, Almond oil or Cow Ghee
- Warm the oil for best results
Best time:
- In the evening or before bed, when Vata is naturally more active
- You can leave the oil on overnight if comfortable for better results
- Otherwise, wash with warm salt water Mixed with epsom salt after 20–30 minutes
Massage Technique:
Sit comfortably and apply warm oil generously on both feet
- Use circular motions using thumb finger on the soles and heels, and long strokes on the top of the foot
- Massage the toes, arches, finger gaps, heels
- Focus on any stiffness or sensitive points
- Use gentle pressure
Benefits of Pada Abhyanga – Foot Massage
1. Balances Vata Dosha
- Reduces dryness, joint stiffness, and internal restlessness
- Grounds the nervous system, calming anxiety and overthinking
- Supports arthritis, Vata-related pain, and age-related degenerative changes
2. Promotes Deep Sleep (Nidra)
- Nourishes nerve endings in the feet, inducing calm
- Recommended for insomnia (Anidra) and sleep disturbances
3. Enhances Circulation & Warmth
- Improves blood flow to cold, numbness in feet and hands especially early morning in cold seasons
- Supports diabetic foot care by enhancing awareness and peripheral circulation
4. Improves Vision (Drishti Prasadana)
- Classical Ayurvedic texts link foot massage to better eye health
- Helps reduce digital eye strain in children and adults
5. Relieves Fatigue & Boosts Energy
- Alleviates physical exhaustion after long hours of standing or sitting
- Recharges the nervous system
6. Softens Skin & Repairs Cracks
- Regular oiling nourishes dry, rough feet and cracked heels
- Improves skin texture, elasticity, and prevents stiffness
7. Stimulates Marma Points & Organ Health
- Activates vital nerve pathways connecting to internal organs
- Supports digestion, hormonal balance, liver, kidney, and heart function
- Encourages longevity by promoting systemic harmony and vitality
Precautions:
Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting if you’re pregnant, have circulatory issues, open wounds, fractures, or chronic conditions.
Research Updates
Modern studies validate many of the classical Ayurvedic claims.
- Improves sleep quality, particularly in the elderly and people with anxiety
- Reduces blood pressure and heart rate, improving cardiovascular health
- Lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increases relaxation response
- Enhances nerve sensitivity and circulation, especially in diabetics
- Reduces pain perception and fatigue in chronic illness
- Improves quality of life in palliative care settings
Why It’s Especially Important in UK
When living in UK people often have complaints:
- Cold, numb feet — even in mild winters
- Sleep disturbances and Vata imbalance (anxiety, dryness, poor focus)
- Digital burnout and nerve fatigue
- Early signs of lifestyle-related ageing
Pada Abhyanga suggested to many people have seen remarkable changes in my experience, especially early morning numbness circulation issues. Practise and see the benfits.
More Than a Pedicure – A Path to Longevity: Make Pada Abhyanga Your Evening Ritual
Unlike a cosmetic pedicure that focuses only on external beauty, Pada Abhyanga works from the inside out, nourishing your nervous system, calming the mind, and activating vital internal pathways that support organ function, circulation, and emotional wellbeing.
Whether you’re managing daily stress, aiming for restful sleep, or simple way to support long-term health, this timeless Ayurvedic ritual offers deep therapeutic value. Regular practice helps prevent imbalance, promote longevity, and rejuvenate your entire system all in a few minutes before bed.
More than a spa treatment, Pada Abhyanga is self-care with purpose. Start tonight. Your body will thank you now and for years to come.
AI Ayurveda Imma – Your Guide to Ayurvedic Living in the UK | Zen Wellness
Be slow in choosing, sure in living – Choose Ayurveda.
With Wellness
Imma Antonisamy
