Nabhi Abhyanga: The Sacred Practice of Navel Oiling
Before I work with clients, I place a couple of drops of neem oil into my navel. Neem is purifying and protective. It creates a shield that keeps my field strong and clear, allowing me to hold space without absorbing the heaviness or energetic residue my clients may be releasing. It’s a simple act, but one that feels powerful and ancient.
Nabhi: The Healing Wisdom of the Navel
In Ayurveda, the navel, or Nabhi, is seen as a sacred centre. It is the first point formed when we came into being, the place through which we were nourished by our mother. Long after birth, it remains an energetic hub. More than 52,000 subtle channels, known as nadis, converge at this point, carrying prana and life force throughout the body.
Placing oils into the navel is a simple yet powerful self-care practice. It works by allowing the qualities of the oil to be absorbed into the body through these pathways, supporting balance and healing in natural ways.
Different oils carry different properties...
Neem oil is purifying and supports clearer skin.
Almond oil is nourishing and helps the complexion to glow.
Mustard oil warms digestion, eases constipation, and softens dry lips.
Coconut or olive oil is cooling and restorative and often used to support fertility.
Sesame oil strengthens the bones and joints and is grounding for Vata.
Castor oil is deeply soothing for knee and joint pain.
A blend of ginger and mustard oil eases bloating, nausea, and digestive discomfort.
How to practice: for deeper absorption, place two to three drops of the chosen oil in your navel before bed. Lie back, allow it to absorb, and if you wish, gently massage around the area in circles.
This small ritual is a beautiful way of honouring the body’s innate wisdom, bringing nourishment directly to the centre that once sustained our very life.
By understanding yourself through the lens of Ayurveda, you gain the tools to work with your body’s natural intelligence, rather than against it. If you feel called to explore this path, I am here to guide and support you on your journey back to wholeness. Find out more here.