Oh, I get your confusion, there’s quite a few things to consider, right? Ayurvedic massage, or Abhyanga as it’s called, is indeed a bit different than the typical spa massage. When it comes to attire, most traditional Ayurvedic massage centers will provide you with something, usually a cloth or a dhoti, to wear during the massage. You aren’t expected to bring your own clothing, so don’t stress too much about that. The emphasis in Ayurveda is on ensuring you feel relaxed and comfortable, so nudity isn’t a requirement if you’re not comfortable with it—just communicate your preferences with your therapist in advance!
About the oil, well, yes! Abhyanga involves a lot of warm oil and it’s a central part of the therapy. They really slather it on because the oils are packed with herbs and are meant to nourish your skin, soothe your doshas, and improve your health over time. Post-massage, expect to have a good amount of oil on your skin, so bringing a change of clothes is a smart move. Something loose and old maybe, as oils can stain.
As for showering, traditional Ayurvedic practice suggests waiting a bit before washing off the oil. The idea is to let the oils further absorb and provide their benefits. I’d say somewhere around 2-3 hours would be ideal. This can help with cooling and allows the herbs to get in deeper.
Don’t forget, though—communicating with the massage center is key. You can ask them directly about what they provide and what you might need to bring. Each place might handle things a bit differently depending on how traditional they are or if they have their own specific protocols. Enjoy the session! It’s all about relaxing, tuning in with your body and soaking up some ancient wellness wisdom. Just remember to take it easy, and stay hydrated after your massage. Let me know how it goes!


