Post-injury I have a whole new appreciation for my knees. Prior to the accident, I never thought about how important my knees were and how without them I’m not able to go on long walks, do yoga, go dancing with my friends, along with countless other activities that give me joy.

While it’s easy to expend energy reflecting about the negative aspects of recovery, it is key to stay connected to this sense of gratitude, for the prospect of healing is better than never healing at all.

One of my favourite ways to heal and love my knee is Abhynaga using healing oil. In Ayurveda, Abhyanga is performed to reduce ama, or toxins from the body, along with treat diseases of the bones and nerve tissue. Once I thoroughly massage the oil onto my knees, I do steam therapy, also known as svedana to further release toxins. As I don’t have access to a steam room, I use hot towels to wrap around the knees. Abhyanga and svedana is recommended for all individuals, injury or not. It is especially great for athletes to help replenish their bodies, and can also be done before asana to help the joints to improve circulation and help move into the poses.

I personally recommend my yoga guru’s Strength, Healing and Flexibility oil. It has a variety of oils and different herbs, like guggulu which is known for it’s healing potential.

Connecting to your body is a wonderful way to practice mindfulness. Self-love boosts confidence and happiness and gives back to your body which is consistently working hard for you. If your PT gives you any exercises like patella mobilization, it’s lovely to use the oil to gently move the knee cap from side to side, as well as up and down. One should always avoid pushing directly on the knee cap, and should speak with the physical therapist before implementing any new exercises.

Below is a personal favourite I love to listen to while I send some good vibes to my knee. Hope you enjoy! Namaste. xo