DRY BODY BRUSHING IS AN ANCIENT AYURVEDIC PRACTICE KNOWN AS GARSHANA, PROMOTING LYMPHATIC CLEANSING AND SUPPORTING THE BODY'S NATURAL DETOXIFICATION PROCESS. THIS SIMPLE, YET POWERFUL TECHNIQUE IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BODY HEALTHY, TONED AND SMOOTH.
BOOSTS LYMPHATIC FLOW: The lymphatic system is crucial for detoxification, and dry brushing helps stimulate lymph flow, aiding in the removal of toxins and waste products from the body. Unlike the circulatory system, which pumps blood through your body, the lymphatic system relies on manual stimulation to transport lymph fluid. This is where dry brushing comes in, facilitating the movement of lymph fluid and supporting your body’s detoxification process.
ENHANCES CIRCULATION: By promoting blood flow, dry brushing can reduce the appearance of cellulite and give your skin a natural, healthy glow.
SUPPORTS METABOLISM AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT: It can promote weight management by supporting a healthy metabolism and aiding in the breakdown of fat deposits and helps reducing the appearance of cellulite.
EXFOLIATES AND RENEWS: Dry brushing removes dead skin cells, improves skin appearance, and promotes cell renewal, leaving your skin soft and vibrant.
IMPROVES MUSCLE TONE: Regular dry brushing can help increase muscle tone by stimulating the muscles and promoting better circulation.
ENHANCES SKIN TEXTURE: This practice enhances skin texture, radiance, and suppleness, making your skin look and feel more youthful.
SUPPORTS OVERALL HEALTH: According to Ayurveda, the lymphatic system is connected to the health of every tissue in the body. Proper lymph flow supports overall well-being and harmony within the body.
Dry brushing should be done on dry skin only, ideally before showering in the morning. This practice is not only invigorating but also tailored to suit different body types and seasons. Spring is an ideal season to incorporate dry brushing into your routine, as it helps to cleanse and refresh the body, preparing it for the warmer months ahead.
TIPS:
Direction of Strokes: Always brush towards the heart.
Stroke Technique: Use circular strokes on the joints (shoulders, elbows, knees, wrists, hips, and ankles) and long sweeping strokes on the arms and legs.
Pressure Application: Apply light pressure where the skin is thin or sensitive (such as the neck) and firm pressure on thicker areas like the bottoms of the feet.
STEP-BY-STEP ROUTINE:
STEP 1- FEET TO TORSO: Start brushing from the feet upwards, continuing to the torso (avoiding the delicate breast area) and on to the neck.
STEP 2- HANDS TO SHOULDERS: Brush from the hands to the shoulders.
STEP 3- STOMACH AND BUTTOCKS: Massage the stomach and buttocks in circular clockwise motions.
POST-BRUSHING CARE: After completing your body brushing, rinse off in the shower, and massage your skin with pure plant oil such as Jojoba oil, Sesame oil, Herbal oil or a Botanical balm.
HOW OFTEN?
DAILY: For those who experience stagnation in their bodies, daily dry brushing can be particularly beneficial, stimulating circulation and promoting detoxification.
3 TIMES PER WEEK: Individuals with a fiery constitution and slightly oily skin can practice dry brushing three times per week to maintain balance and harmony.
TWICE A WEEK: Those with a more airy constitution and dry skin will benefit most from dry brushing twice a week, providing gentle exfoliation and hydration.
PRECAUTIONS
Dry brushing is generally considered very safe and beneficial. However, you may want to avoid dry brushing if you have any of the following conditions:
Very Sensitive Skin: If your skin is easily irritated or overly sensitive, dry brushing may cause discomfort or exacerbate sensitivity. Try dry-massaging with Garshana Silk Gloves instead for gentler yet effective results.
Skin Conditions: Avoid dry brushing if you have skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, as it can aggravate these conditions. Do not use a dry brush on open wounds or damaged skin.
Acute Illness: During an acute illness, it's best to avoid dry brushing as your body needs rest and gentle care.
NATURAL BRISTLES: For optimal results, always choose a brush with natural bristles rather than a synthetic one.
COPPER BRISTLES: To take your dry-brushing to the next level and experience faster results, opt for a blend of 100% natural and ultra-fine copper bristles.
Choosing a charged energy brush can offer significant benefits leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated and revitalised. As the copper bristles glide over your skin, they generate negative ions that help dispel free radicals, often associated with premature skin aging.
