Some rituals aren’t just routines – they’re an inheritance. For me, Sunday evenings have always carried the faint aroma of warm coconut oil, the rhythmic press of fingers against my scalp, and the comforting chatter of home. Hair oiling wasn’t just about beauty; it was a pause, a reset, and a quiet act of love.
In Ayurveda, oiling the hair (shiro abhyanga) is more than self-care: it’s a healing therapy for the body and mind. And if you’ve grown up in India, chances are you’ve been on the receiving end of this ritual more than once, whether from a mother, grandmother, or an indulgent older sister.
1. Nourishment from root to tip
Regular oiling nourishes the scalp, strengthens roots, and coats the hair shaft to protect it from dryness and damage. Oils like coconut, sesame, and almond are rich in vitamins and fatty acids that restore moisture and encourage healthy growth.
2. A moment to de-stress
The gentle massage of warm oil increases blood circulation to the scalp, which not only promotes hair growth but also releases tension. Ayurveda believes the head is a powerful energy point: massaging it helps balance the nervous system, calm the mind, and even improve sleep.
3. Natural shine, the traditional way
Forget chemical serums – consistent oiling can give you that natural, healthy shine. It’s the kind of radiance that comes from deep hydration, not surface gloss.
4. Seasonal adaptability
In winter, heavier oils like sesame provide warmth and nourishment, while in summer, cooling oils like coconut help soothe the scalp and protect from heat damage.
At Yoginii, we see rituals like hair oiling as more than beauty routines. They are moments of connection: to our heritage, to our bodies, and to ourselves. A Sunday evening spent with oil in your hair and time on your hands is proof that self-care doesn’t need to be elaborate to be powerful.
