I’m touring the country nonstop with a Broadway show and people often ask what I use on my skin.

Living on an extremely tight budget and turning 40 soon, I know firsthand how inexpensive and effective basic Ayurvedic self-care treatments can be.

As a licensed esthetician, I have tried literally thousands of different body-care products over the years. After studying Ayurveda (also known as the sister science to yoga) I learned about abhyanga which is a self-administered oil massage.

Taking the time to apply warm oil to your body, then gently exfoliating to remove it, not only leaves your skin glowing, refreshed and restored, but the process also improves circulation and can help to boost your mood. (Trust me—it really does!)

Here’s how you can apply a quick, inexpensive Ayurvedic treatment right in your own home.:

1. Set aside a few tablespoons of olive oil, coconut or almond oil. Keep the bottle handy in case you run out as you work.

2. Remove all of your clothing and put down a towel so that you will not slip.

3. Take a little of the oil and warm it in between your hands. Begin applying it on your long bones (legs and arms) in upward strokes aiming towards your heart.

4. When going over joints, apply the oil in a circular motion, also aiming towards your heart.

5. Maintain a slow, steady, relaxing pressure and make sure to cover as much of your body as possible.

6. Once all of the oil has been applied, take a warm wet cloth and begin to gently slough off dead skin using a circular motion. Rinse the cloth with more warm water and repeat until you do not feel a thick coating of oil remains on your body.

7. Do not use any soap and be careful not to scrub too hard, as your skin will reap the most benefits if you let a light film of oil remain.

8. There’s no need to use moisturizer, but if your elbows or knees are still dry, apply a dot of any leftover oil to these areas.

So that’s it—a quick, effective and inexpensive tip for glowing, smooth, healthy skin all over your body!

Please give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments area below.

Relephant:

The Broke Girl’s Guide to Natural Skin Care.

Author: Anna Maria Giambanco

Volunteer Editor: Kim Haas / Editor: Travis May

Photo: Courtesy of author