In the last decade, the idea of the Self Care Ritual has become a buzz term spotted in magazines, boasted by influencers and built into experiential spas and saunas that seem to appear overnight. Self Care is often framed as a quick fix - a faux crystal gua sha, a new robe or whatever sparkly new product is trending on Tiktok. However, Self Care Rituals have always played a role in our lives, dating all the way back to over 5000 years ago. Our ancestors took part in profound rituals rooted in wisdom, nature and deep self-awareness. These ancient self-care practices, refined over centuries, offer us a timeless guide to nurturing the body, mind, and spirit.
Ayurveda
Originating in India, Ayurveda is a holistic system of healing that emphasises balance in all aspects of life. Daily self care includes oil pulling, massage and tongue scraping. Abhyanga, or self massage is type of massage performed with warm oil applied to the entirety of the body - from the scalp to the soles of your feet. It nourishes the skin with warm herbal oils to calm the nervous system.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
At the centre of Traditional Chinese Medicine is an emphasis on balance within the body’s energy system. Built on the fundamental concept of Qi, life force energy and the balance of Yin and Yang. It views health as a dynamic equilibrium between opposing forces, and disruptions in this balance can lead to illness. This philosophy is lived out through Self Care Rituals including acupressure, herbal teas and tonics, cupping therapy and seasonal living - an adjustment of lifestyle habits according to the seasons.
Ancient Egypt
Ancient Egyptians believed in the connection between physical appearance, health and spiritual wellbeing. Beauty was not a purely aesthetic quality, but also a sacred practice that honoured the divine and maintained overall wellbeing. Beauty was an expression of divine order, linked to the concept of Ma’at - the principle of truth, harmony and balance. Personal care rituals like milk and honey baths, clay masks and perfumed body oils were used to maintain alignment with cosmic and spiritual forces.
