Why women should massage their shoulders in their 40s

As we turn 40, some bodily functions need a hand to work properly. Around the age of 40, Vata dosha naturally begins to increase. Vata governs movement, dryness, and aging. Women in their late 40s should regularly massage their shoulders, armpits, and major joints using warm sesame oil. Here are some benefits of doing this practice daily:


Improves joint flexibility

This practice not only helps in maintaining joint flexibility and improving circulation but also supports the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in detoxification. A shoulder massage with warm oils helps calm excess Vata, reducing stiffness, dryness, and cracking sensations in joints. This practice not only helps in maintaining joint flexibility and improving circulation, but also supports the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in detoxification.

Emotional stability

Shoulders often hold emotional stress and tension. Regular massage can release this built-up tension, which supports mental clarity and emotional stability—important as hormonal shifts begin in the 40s.

Increase lymphatic drainage

Dr. Suneera Banga, BAMS, MD (Panchakarma), Senior Ayurvedic Doctor, Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital, New Delhi says, “Massage stimulates blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting detoxification and keeping tissues nourished—crucial for skin and muscle health as aging begins. The armpit region contains a dense cluster of lymph nodes, and gentle massage here can help with lymphatic drainage and indirectly helps in hormonal balance helps alleviating perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms.”

Improve bone density

As women age, bone density and muscle tone begin to decline. Regular massage with medicated oils (like mahamashadi oil/ Mahanarayan oil/ Ashwagandha Bala oil/Til oil) can help maintain shoulder strength and flexibility.




Improves Ojas

Ojas is the essence of immunity and vitality. Massaging the upper back and shoulders (near the heart chakra) is believed to support Ojas, helping maintain overall energy and hormonal balance.

Regulate prana

According to Vd. Dr. Deepak Rathee, BAMS, MD-Panchakarma, Senior Ayurveda consultant, Maharishi Ayurveda Hospital, Delhi, “The armpit region (specifically the Kakshadhara marma) houses important lymph nodes and is connected to hormonal and immune health. Gentle massage in these areas stimulates Marma points—vital energy centers—which help regulate prana - the life force, balance hormones, and detoxify the body.
वातादीनां च विकाराणां स्नेहाभ्यङ्गैश्च नाशनम्॥
Charaka Samhita, Sutrasthana”

Regulates vata dosh

Disorders caused by vata and others are alleviated by the application of oil (Sneha) and massage (Abhyanga). Vata dosha naturally increases with age, leading to dryness, joint stiffness, anxiety, etc. Hence, abhyanga with sesame oil, a Vata-pacifying snehana, is highly recommended.

Why you should use sesame oil

Sesame oil, being rich in phytoestrogens and nourishing properties, reduces pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints. It is deeply nourishing for bones, joints, and nerves and acts as a natural support for this transitional phase in a woman’s life. Til Taila is Guru (heavy), Snigdha (unctuous), Vatahara (pacifies Vata)


Tips for best practice:

Warm the oil before use for better absorption and relaxation

Apply gentle pressure at marma points and move in circular motions over joints and lymphatic regions

Let the oil sit for at least 20–30 minutes before bathing