The Effect of Til Taila Abhyanga in Occupational Stress Among Office Workers

Abstract

Occupational stress among office workers has emerged as a major public health concern due to excessive workload, prolonged working hours, sedentary lifestyle, continuous screen exposure and high-performance demands. These factors lead to physical, mental and emotional strain, resulting in conditions such as hypertension, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, and musculoskeletal disorders. Chronic exposure further predisposes individuals to psychophysiological disorders including cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disturbances and chronic pain conditions. The World Health Organization recognizes occupational stress as a global epidemic requiring preventive and therapeutic strategies. From an Ayurvedic perspective, occupational stress is primarily associated with aggravated Vata Dosha along with vitiation of Rajas and Tamas, leading to disturbances in both Sharirika and Manasika functions. Tila Taila Abhyanga, a classical Dinacharya practice is described in Ayurvedic texts as an effective Vata-pacifying therapy that promotes relaxation, nourishment of Dhatus and restoration of neuromuscular balance. Its Snigdha and Snehana properties help reduce muscular stiffness, improve circulation, lower stress hormones and enhance sleep quality. Modern research also supports massage therapy in reducing cortisol levels and improving parasympathetic activity. The findings suggest that regular Tila Taila Abhyanga is an effective, safe and non-pharmacological intervention for managing occupational stress and improving overall well-being among office workers.