Beauty Rival – Navel Oiling, Castor oil has taken social media by storm, but this isn’t a modern miracle—it’s a revival of an age-old practice rooted in Ayurveda. People are raving about its alleged benefits, from smoother digestion and reduced cramps to glowing skin and restful sleep. Intrigued by the claims, I decided to try this ritual for 30 days to see if it lives up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it’s more transformative than I expected.
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Navel oiling, or nabhi chikitsa in Ayurveda, involves applying oil to the navel area to stimulate health and balance. According to Ayurvedic philosophy, the navel (or nabhi) is considered the body’s epicenter—where life begins and balance can be restored.
Shrankhla Holecek, founder of Uma Oils, explains, “The navel serves as the body’s central hub, rich in blood vessels that link directly to vital organs and pathways.” Ayurveda teaches that nurturing this area can help recalibrate your body’s systems.
Research backs up some Ayurvedic claims. The navel is closely linked to the vagus nerve, a key player in relaxation and digestion. Studies suggest that medication administered via the navel can be highly effective, highlighting its ability to absorb and transport nutrients.
So why should you try navel oiling? Here are some benefits backed by tradition and emerging studies:
Navel oiling is believed to help regulate digestion by calming the digestive tract and reducing bloating.
The practice can ease abdominal discomfort, including period-related cramps, by stimulating blood flow to the area.
Applying oil directly to the navel helps moisturize the skin from the inside out, leaving it softer and smoother over time.
Stimulating the vagus nerve may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
If you’re new to this ritual, it’s easy to incorporate into your nightly routine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure maximum benefits:
Clean your navel area thoroughly to ensure no dirt or residue interferes with the absorption.
Lightly pinch the navel folds with your thumb and forefinger for 15–20 seconds. This helps awaken the area for better oil absorption.
Place a small piece of cotton or tissue inside the navel to keep the oil in place and prevent staining your clothes.
Perform this ritual at bedtime for optimal relaxation and results.
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I began with Sky Organics Castor Oil. Its thick, sticky texture was a challenge to manage, especially with my long nails, but I persevered. Initially, I followed the simple routine of applying a few drops before bed.
Two weeks in, I noticed subtle shifts:
By week three, I incorporated a full stomach massage into my nightly routine. This turned the process into a therapeutic experience, helping me unwind from the day.
By the end of 30 days, the changes were undeniable:
After a month of nightly navel oiling, I can confidently say it’s a practice worth exploring. Whether you’re seeking smoother skin, improved digestion, or simply a new way to relax, this ancient ritual has modern-day benefits that are hard to ignore.