Daily body brushing can provide you with some amazing benefits!

The practice of body brushing, often referred to as "Garshana" in Ayurveda, is an ancient technique that has been cherished for centuries, thanks to its impressive array of health benefits. In this blog post, we'll delve into why you should incorporate body brushing into your daily routine and explore the ailments it can help with, all from an Ayurvedic perspective.

What is Body Brushing or Garshana?

Garshana, derived from the Sanskrit word that means "rubbing," is a dry body massage done with a natural bristle brush or raw silk gloves. It's often incorporated into morning routines before showering (Pole, 2013).

Why Should You Be Body Brushing?

Body brushing, when performed correctly and consistently, offers numerous benefits. Let's explore a few according to Ayurvedic literature:

1. Stimulates Lymphatic System, in Ayurveda, the lymphatic system, also known as the body's drainage system, is considered crucial for maintaining good health. Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system, aiding in toxin elimination (Dass, V., 2013).
2. Exfoliates Skin, regular dry brushing exfoliates the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting smoother, fresher skin (Kshirsagar, A., & Vinjamury, S., 2015).
3. Improves Blood Circulation, body brushing encourages blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your skin and organs (Lad, V., & Frawley, D., 1986).
4. Boosts Digestion and Kidney Function, some studies suggest that body brushing may aid in eliminating metabolic waste, supporting kidney function, and even potentially improving digestion (Halpern, M., 2012).
5. Promotes Mental Clarity, due to its purifying properties, body brushing can promote clarity and vitality, and reduce lethargy, according to Ayurvedic theory (Lad, V., 2009).

Ailments Body Brushing Can Help With

Given these multifaceted benefits, body brushing can alleviate a variety of health concerns:

Skin Conditions: Dry brushing can support those with non-inflammatory skin conditions by removing dead skin cells and promoting skin regeneration (Kshirsagar, A., & Vinjamury, S., 2015).

Lymphedema: By encouraging the lymphatic system's natural detoxification process, dry brushing can help manage conditions such as lymphedema, where lymphatic flow is compromised (Dass, V., 2013).

Mental Fog: As dry brushing can increase circulation and energy levels, it may also assist with mental fog and lethargy (Lad, V., 2009).

Remember, body brushing is a supplemental practice and should not replace medical treatments for serious conditions.

How to Incorporate Body Brushing Into Your Daily Routine:

Start by getting a good quality, natural bristle brush. Here's a basic routine you can follow:

1. Preferably in the morning, before your shower, start brushing at your feet and move up your body with long sweeping motions towards your heart.
2. Use firm, but gentle strokes, and avoid sensitive areas.
3. After brushing, rinse off in the shower.
4. Pat your skin dry and apply a natural oil to moisturise your skin.

Body brushing is a simple, low-cost, and effective ritual that could bring profound changes to your health when practiced regularly. Remember, consistency is key. As Ayurveda teaches, it's the small daily habits that count towards a long, healthy life.


References:

- Dass, V. (2013). The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine. Lotus Press.
- Halpern, M. (2012). Principles of Ayurvedic Medicine. California College of Ayurveda.
- Kshirsagar, A., & Vinjamury, S. (2015). Ayurvedic Single Herbs: It's Uses & Benefits. Lulu.com.
- Lad, V. (2009). Textbook of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic Press.
- Lad, V., & Frawley, D. (1986). The Yoga of Herbs. Lotus Press.
- Pole, S. (2013). Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice. Singing Dragon.