Ever wonder why so many skincare insiders, wellness seekers and Ayurvedic devotees swear by face massage? Hint: it's not a fleeting trend—it's one of the oldest, most sacred beauty rituals in the world. In Ayurveda, the ancient science of natural healing from India, it's known as Muhka Abhyanga (muh-ka ub-yung-ah), which literally translates to "face massage" in Sanskrit. But this practice is so much more than just a moment of pampering—it's a time-tested, ritualized therapy for both skin and spirit. 

What Is Muhka Abhyanga?

Muhka Abhyanga is the Ayurvedic ritual of massaging the face using botanical oils to tone, detoxify and rejuvenate the skin. Unlike modern skincare practices that often focus solely on surface-level results, Muhka Abhyanga works holistically—engaging the body’s energy points (marma), stimulating lymphatic drainage and enhancing blood flow for a deeply radiant and lifted complexion.

It’s believed that royal women of ancient India practiced this daily, using herbal-infused oils to maintain youthful skin, calm the nervous system and invoke a meditative state of beauty. And thousands of years later? We’re still massaging with intention. 

The Beauty + Science of It All

Face massage has earned its spotlight for good reason. When performed consistently, it: 

And the best part? You can feel a difference immediately. Skin looks brighter, more sculpted and deeply nourished—and with time, the long-term benefits become even more apparent. 

How to Practice It Like a Ritual

Start with a high-quality, nutrient-dense oil—like our PRANA face oil, rich in Ayurvedic adaptogens and organic and wild-crafted botanicals. 

Step 1: Warm a few drops of oil in the palm of your hand. Apply Oil to a clean face, neck and décolletage.

Step 2: Begin by gliding both palms from the base of the neck to the bottom of your chin in an upward motion. Next, using the inner side of thumbs, massage from the chin outward along the jawline. 

Step 3: Massage cheeks with your fingertips using light pressure and always moving upwards and outwards.

Step 4: Using your ring finger, start at the outer corner of the eye and temple gliding inwards following the contour of the eye.  Continue upward, around the eyebrow. 

Step 5: Finally, with your fingertips alternate sweeping motions from one side of the forehead to the next. Repeat each step 3 times. 

This practice takes just a few minutes a day, yet the results are deeply and visibly transformative. 

Hands vs. Tools 

Gua Sha and Kansa Wands? Absolutely beautiful additions. But your hands—when used mindfully—are your most intuitive tools. They allow you to tune into your skin’s needs, applying the perfect pressure, rhythm and care. Plus, nothing grounds quite like the warmth of touch. 

Why this Anti-Aging Ritual Belongs in Your Daily Routine

Think of Face Massage as meditation for your skin. It brings blood flow, balance and intention into your day—whether you're prepping for the morning or unwinding at night. It's about more than beauty. It's about presence. 

So, if you're looking for a ritual that lifts your skin while lowering your stress, this is it. Ayurvedic beauty isn't just a product—it's a pathway to radiant, resilient, luminous skin that reflects the care you give to your whole self. And in a world obsessed with quick fixes, there's something incredibly powerful about a practice that's lasted over 5,000 years. 

So take a breath, warm the oil in your palms and give your skin the attention it deserves. In a world of rush, this is your pause. 

Here's to skin that glows because it's nourished—and to rituals that mean something.

Love + Light,