What is dry brushing?
Dry brushing is a practice used in Ayurveda that involves using a dry bristle brush to give the body a stimulating lymphatic massage to help eliminate toxins. The ayurvedic name for this method is Garshana, (pronounced gar-shun-uh), it comes from the ancient Sanskrit word which translates to ‘friction by rubbing.
How to dry brush?
Always brush toward the heart. Start from the top of the feet brushing up towards the torso, then brush shins and calves, then thighs, inner thighs and back of the legs using upward strokes. Once you move to your torso gently massage your hips, buttocks, and lower back continuing with upward strokes. When you brush your abdomen use circular clockwise movements to aid digestion and elimination. Do not brush over your heart and chest. You can brush your neck and shoulders with downward strokes towards your heart then massage from your hands upwards towards your shoulders.
When to dry brush?
The best time of the day for dry brushing is in the morning before you shower. You should use just three to five strokes in each area of the body so a whole body massage should take you between seven to ten minutes. After you are done brushing take a shower and use a natural soap to wash your body and then hydrate your skin with a natural oil such as almond, jojoba or coconut oil.
How often should one dry brush?
Two to three times a week is recommended but if you have the time to brush daily it would be ideal to improve circulation and flush out toxins.
What are the benefits of dry brushing?
- Improves Circulation
- Eliminates dead skin
- Aids in lymphatic drainage and helps eliminate toxins from your body
- Energizes the body and wakens the mind
- Can improve the appearance of cellulite
What type of brush to use?
Get a brush with natural, not synthetic bristles and preferably vegetable-derived. The bristles themselves should be somewhat stiff, though not too hard.
Who should not dry brush?
Not recommended for people with very sensitive skin, for those with eczema or any skin irritation.
