In this episode of “5 Minutes,” Dr. Robert Svoboda explores medicated oils in Ayurveda and their importance for balancing Vata through the sense of touch.
As human beings, we have five senses, and each sense is associated with one of the five elements. The sense of smell is connected with the earth element, the sense of taste with the water element, the sense of sight with the fire element, the sense of touch with the air element, and the sense of hearing with the element of space.
The sense of touch is associated with the air element, and the air element is one of the two elements, along with space, that create Vata in the body. As I have mentioned many times, Vata is extremely aggravated in many people today and is often chronically aggravated. As our external environment becomes more disturbed, and as many people do not take steps to harmonize their internal environments, there is a greater tendency for Vata to become unbalanced.
For this reason, medicated oils are very important for anyone who wishes to keep Vata under control. The air element is strongly present in the skin, where the sense of touch is located. Applying medicated oils to the skin helps calm and balance the air element because the qualities of oil are generally opposite to the qualities of Vata.
The air element, especially in the form of Vata, is cold, while oil is generally warming. This quality can be increased by adding warming herbs when preparing medicated oils, although the specific herbs should always be chosen according to the individual and the condition of the skin. Oil is consistent and flows in a steady stream, while Vata is irregular and changeable. Oil is heavy, while Vata is light. Oil counteracts dryness, while Vata has drying qualities.
This is especially important for the skin because when the skin becomes dry, it becomes more sensitive. When the skin is more sensitive, sensations are transmitted into the nervous system with less filtering. This creates greater stimulation of the nervous system and can contribute to increased Vata.
When we apply oil to the skin, it is as though we are creating a protective layer around the organism, making us less disturbed by the external environment. You do not need to apply a large amount of oil. Personally, I do not prefer to become saturated with oil. It is enough to apply just enough oil so that the skin feels smooth and nourished.
If you take a shower immediately afterward, the warm water will help open the pores and allow the oil to be absorbed more effectively. This simple practice can help create greater stability and calmness in the organism.
Medicated oils are therefore especially valuable in the uncertain and changing world in which we live. They provide a simple way to support the body, calm Vata, and maintain a healthier relationship with our environment.