Snehan Age Difference - #5523
I recently heard about snehan therapy as part of Panchakarma, but I’m confused if it’s suitable for all age groups. Does the snehan age difference really matter? I’m asking because my grandmother is 72, and I’m 28, and we both want to try snehan therapy for different reasons. She’s dealing with joint pain and stiffness, while I’m more interested in detoxification and stress relief. Can snehan age difference affect the way the therapy works? Is it more effective for younger people, or does snehan work equally well for elderly individuals? Also, are there specific types of snehan therapy based on age? For example, should oil or ghee-based snehan be used differently for my grandmother versus me? I’ve read that snehan age difference might influence the duration and intensity of the therapy, but I’m not sure how this is decided. If anyone has experience with snehan therapy for different age groups, could you share what worked best for you? Does snehan age difference also impact the type of oil or herbs used in the treatment? I’d like to know if there are precautions we should take when doing snehan for elderly individuals.
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Doctors’ responses
Snehan therapy, a key component of Panchakarma, is beneficial for people of all ages, but the approach may differ based on individual health needs and age. For younger individuals, it is often more focused on detoxification and stress relief, using lighter oils and a shorter duration for the treatment. For elderly individuals like your grandmother, the therapy can be particularly helpful for joint pain and stiffness, but it may require heavier, warming oils like ghee or medicated oils to support deeper nourishment and mobility. The duration and intensity of the therapy are adjusted to the individual’s strength, health conditions, and dosha balance. In elderly individuals, gentler approaches are usually adopted, with a focus on joint health and circulation. Precautions for the elderly include ensuring they are comfortable, using oils suited to their specific needs, and avoiding excessive heat during the therapy. As always, it’s best to consult an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner to tailor the therapy for both of you.
Interesting question, snehan is like the nourishing hug of Ayurveda, and while age is no barrier, it does influence how the therapy is tailored. For you and your grandmother, snehan pracitices can be adjusted to fit like a glove.
Your age difference doesn’t make snehan less effective for either of you, but it does mean the approach will need some tweaks to suit each of your unique needs. At 72, your grandmother might need a gentler touch, more moisture, and warmth-focused treatment to ease joint pain and stiffness. Her therapy might use heavier oils like sesame or possibly medicated ghee to help lubricate her body’s tissues and joints.
For you, at 28, you might be looking at snehan that’s more about detoxification and stress relief. You could try lighter oils or different herbal infusions that help remove toxins and relieve tension. Maybe sunflower oil or some herbal blends that have cooling or de-stressing properties can do wonders.
Now, about the duration and intensity! For older individuals, shorter and more frequent sessions might be better, ensuring it’s not overwhelming. The elderly skin can be sensitive so start with shorter sessions and monitor how it feels. For younger people, sometimes a bit more intensity and a longer, deeper massage can AMPLIFY the benefits.
Precautions-wise, be mindful of any existing health conditions your grandmother might have. Like if she has circulatory issues or specific skin sensitivities - discuss these with a knowledgeable Ayurvedic practitioner before starting.
And try to enjoy it! It’s such a soothing practice for both body and mind. Be open to how it feels each session and ready to make adjustments. Remember, snehan is about nurturing, and both of you can find your own, unique comfort in it.

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