44. Is Your Skin Dry, Stressed, or Aging? Ayurveda Has an Oil for That
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: hello@ayurvedicliving.institute
📸 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!
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. Whether you’re nourishing your face with their gorgeous Glow Face Oil (my personal go-to), caring for your nasal passages with their Nasya Oil, or balancing your constitution with a dosha-specific body oil, Osi Oils is the kind of ritual that gives back. Listeners get 20% off at osioils.com 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 first order at https://acknowledge.co
🔒 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.
