When you apply oil to your body you're creating a physical protective layer that's moisturizing. This supports the integrity of your skin and, as part of a routine, can keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.
Oiling your skin can be a simple ritual celebration of the body. Or a way to soothe and moisturize the skin. It can ease tense muscles. Or support the immune system by stimulating the lymphatic system. It soothes your nervous system, helping you ground into your body even while navigating emotional upheaval. The practice can feel devotional, softening sticky feelings about our bodies that tend to linger on.
And when you use an oil that's been infused with herbs you also absorb their unique benefits too. This is similar to how birth control patches or nicotine patches release chemicals through the skin into the bloodstream. The chemical components that are extracted from herbs into an infused oil are absorbed into your bloodstream when you massage the oil into your skin. So an expertly-made infused lavender oil (not essential oil) can be particularly relaxing and soothing.