Learn how these three essential Ayurvedic products can help support a nourishing and rejuvenating self-care routine.
For more than 20 years, I’ve been on a journey to nurture my body, mind and spirit through self-care. Over time, I’ve tested numerous products and practices, seeking ones that truly make a difference.
When I first discovered Ayurveda, I was in my first yoga teacher training, and that's when self-care practices like tongue scraping and Abhyanga (self-massage with oil) first crossed my path.
Now, more than 15 years later, these practices have become integral to my dinacharya (daily self-care routine). I can confidently say that there are three Ayurvedic products that I can’t live without. These products have stood the test of time, offering not only lasting results but also a deep sense of nourishment that I rely on daily.
Here are the three Ayurvedic essentials that I’ve integrated into my life—and why they’ve become non-negotiable additions for me.
1. Sesame Oil From Banyan Botanicals for Abhyanga
When it comes to self-care, few things compare to the ritual of Abhyanga, which involves massaging warm oil into your skin. It’s deeply soothing, rejuvenating and nourishing. Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of oils, but none have made me feel more nourished than the sesame oil from Banyan Botanicals.
This oil is pure luxury in a bottle. It's organic, unrefined, cold-pressed and free of chemicals. The richness and depth of the oil’s quality are immediately apparent when you apply it. Plus, the fact that you can purchase a 24-ounce refill instead of multiple smaller bottles is a big win for both convenience and sustainability.
In Ayurveda, sesame oil is known as the “king of oils” due to its vast array of uses. It's particularly balancing for vata dosha, which can create dryness when out of balance. This sesame oil makes it the ideal oil for fall and winter when skin can feel depleted and in need of some extra care.
How to use it: To start, I warm the sesame oil in my palms or simply run the bottle under warm water for a few seconds. Then, I begin massaging the oil into my skin, starting from my feet and working my way up. It takes less than 10 minutes. After applying the oil, I like to rest for about 10 minutes before rinsing it off in the shower.
Why it’s a must-have: The results from Abhyanga are noticeable from the first practice. My skin feels deeply moisturized, softer and healthier. Over time, it has become more radiant. Abhyanga is not just great for dry skin—it’s a ritual that nourishes your body and soul. Plus, it can help you slow down and center yourself in a world that often demands more from you.
Read more about Abhyanga in my blog post, "3 Life-Changing Benefits of Abhyanga: Ayurvedic Self-Massage."
2. Tongue Scraper From drTungs
You might be surprised to learn that one of the most transformative habits in a morning routine involves something as simple as a tongue scraper. After trying several different tongue scrapers over the years, I’ve found that the Stainless Steel Tongue Scraper from drTungs is my favorite. Not only is it effective, but it's also durable and easy to use.
Every morning, before brushing my teeth, I scrape my tongue with the drTungs tongue scraper. This simple practice helps me start my day, but the benefits go beyond fresh breath.
Tongue scraping is an Ayurvedic practice that removes ama (toxins) that accumulate in your mouth while you sleep. It also helps to stimulate digestion and wake up taste buds.
How to use it: Gently place the tongue scraper at the back of your tongue and slowly scrape it forward. Key word: gentle! Don’t apply too much pressure. After each scrape, check the residue (ama) left behind.
I typically do five to seven total gentle scrapes. Rinse the tongue scraper after each round and store it in a container or cloth bag. (The drTungs tongue scraper comes with a cloth bag.)
Why it’s a must-have: Each time I use my tongue scraper, I feel a noticeable difference. Not only does my breath stay fresher, but I also feel more awake and ready for the day. I especially love how easy it is to incorporate into my routine—it only takes a minute or two.
Plus, the color of the residue on the scraper can indicate the presence and amount of ama in your body. Darker or thicker residue may indicate a higher level of ama. Knowing this can help you tune in to your body’s needs and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Read more about tongue scraping in my blog post, "Tongue Scraping Benefits: How to Clean Your Tongue."
3. Ghee From Organic Valley
If you’ve never tried ghee, you’re missing out on one of Ayurveda’s true treasures. Ghee, or clarified butter (which means the milk solids and water have been removed from butter), is considered "liquid gold" for a reason.
Glorious ghee is revered for its ability to nourish the body on a deep level. In Ayurveda, ghee is prized for its ability to aid digestion, boost energy and improve skin health, which makes it an everyday self-care essential.
How to use it: I start my day by adding a spoonful of Organic Valley ghee to my breakfast. I stir it into oatmeal with a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you drink coffee, you can add it to your coffee as well.
I also cook everything with ghee—its high smoke point makes it ideal for sautéing, roasting and frying. Plus, it can be applied to dry or irritated skin for extra hydration and nourishment.
Why it’s a must-have: Ghee is a powerhouse product for the body, inside and out. It’s packed with healthy fats and it’s a natural moisturizer that can help with dry skin. It’s simple, yet incredibly effective, making it an indispensable part of my daily self-care routine.
Create a Simple, Profound Daily Self-Care Routine
These three Ayurvedic products have been mainstays in my daily self-care routine for years. Each product has its own unique benefits, yet together they provide deep nourishment for my body, mind and soul. What I love most about these products is their simplicity. They are easy to incorporate into daily life, yet they provide profound results.
I’ve found that it's easier to commit to my self-care when using these products, which help me stay grounded and centered. Whether it's the calming ritual of Abhyanga, the cleansing practice of tongue scraping or the deep nourishment of glorious ghee, these practices have profoundly changed how I feel mentally, emotionally and physically.
If you’re looking to elevate your self-care routine and discover the transformative power of Ayurveda, I highly recommend trying these three products. They might change your life.
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