In this episode of the Elements of Ayurveda Podcast, we're exploring a truly beautiful concept in Ayurvedic wisdom, Sneha, a Sanskrit word that means both oil and love. And that's no coincidence.
Sneha is the essence of softness, warmth, and care that keeps our body, mind, and heart supple. It's both nourishment and an act of conscious love, a daily reminder that tending to ourselves is not selfish, but sacred.
In this episode, Colette shares how Sneha can be practiced both externally through self-oiling rituals like abhyanga, and internally through nourishing fats such as ghee or medicated oils. You'll also discover how Sneha softens not only the physical body but also the mind and emotions, helping to cultivate resilience, calm, and compassion in your daily life.
In this episode, you'll learn:
The dual meaning of Sneha in Sanskrit and why oiling is an act of love
The difference between external Sneha and internal Sneha
How Sneha supports physical health, from joint mobility and skin nourishment to digestion and immunity
The emotional and psychological benefits of Sneha for calming Vata, reducing stress, and fostering self-compassion
How to personalize your Sneha practice for each dosha and season
Simple, daily Sneha rituals you can try at home, even if you only have a few minutes
Links & Resources
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Digestive Reset Cleanse – Join the next Group Cleanse starting January 23rd, 2026, or book a Private Cleanse anytime that suits your schedule. Learn more at Elements Healing & Wellbeing
Golden Turmeric Milk Recipe – Elements Healing & Wellbeing - Resources
Recommended Ayurvedic Oils - The quality and source of your oil matter. Choose organic, cold- or expeller-pressed oils for purity and safety. I recommend the following companies for high quality oils:
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