While Ayurvedic massages need no introduction for their incredible benefits and restorative qualities, Ayurvedic dry massage is a treatment unto itself.
Steeped in the ancient Ayurvedic techniques, and based on the deep understanding of the different doshas, Ayurvedic dry massage offers an invigorating, rejuvenating, and healing experience that soothes and replenishes the body and mind.
What is an Ayurvedic dry massage?
Garshana, is an Ayurvedic dry massage technique that is at once stimulating, detoxifying, and cleansing.
Unlike the more conventional Abhyanga massage that utilises herbal oil, the dry massage or dry brushing technique employs raw silk or linen gloves, or even natural bristle body brushes. The dry brushing involves using the gloves or brush to massage the body vigorously in order to stimulate the skin and the lymphatic system.
How and When can you practice dry brushing?
While dry brushing is simple enough to incorporate into your daily routine, there are some key points to keep in mind when practicing dry brushing:
- Its best done in the morning when the skin is free from oil or lotion (i.e. dry)
- A warm, comfortable room allows you to fully enjoy the process and experience
- Start at the extremities and use long strokes on your limbs (towards the heart)
- Use circular strokes on your joints, and clockwise movement on your chest, abdomen, and back
The primary goal of dry brushing is to create movement and stimulation, which in turn activates the flow of lymph, thereby promoting circulation and detoxification.
Who should practice dry brushing?
Unlike Abhyanga, which is more about calming and relaxing, Garshana focuses on invigorating and activating your systems. For this reason, it is said to be particularly beneficial for those of the kapha dosha, especially when practiced daily.
People who are predominantly pitta can partake of this massage technique 4-5 times a week, while the energetic vata individuals can benefit from it when done 2-4 times per week.
However, dry brushing must ideally be avoided if you have:
- An open wound
- Skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema
- An acute illness
- Very sensitive skin
Why should you practice dry brushing?
The benefits of dry brushing are countless and varied. Although specifically advantageous to those who experience lethargy, tiredness, mental and physical dullness, constipation, and a weakened immune system; there are numerous other ways in which Ayurvedic dry massage can benefit you.
These include:
- It stimulates circulation-
Naturally, the process and technique used in dry brushing promote better circulation which in turn leads to better elimination, detoxification, and skin cell regeneration.
- Boosts metabolism-
Another direct result of the improved circulation is the body’s improved ability to break down toxins and fatty deposits, while getting rid of metabolic waste. This removal of waste from the body also improves energy levels.
- Reduces stress-
It feels good. By helping muscles release the toxic build up of lactic acid, it soothes muscle tension; while stimulating the nerve endings on the skin leads to a feeling of intense rejuvenation.
- Strengthens the lymphatic system-
Promoting the efficient circulation of lymph results in the more effective drainage and elimination of toxins from the body. This also means that your immune response in strengthened.
- Improves the skin-
Not only does dry massage help remove dead skin cells and eliminate clogged pores, leading to healthier, breathing skin; it also lessens the appearance of cellulite while improving the texture of your skin. So, you not only feel better, you look better too.
- Increases muscle tone-
Dry brushing stimulates nerve endings, helps mobilise fats, and leads to the breakdown and even distribution of fat deposits. All of which result in a tighter and more toned you.
Quite simply, dry brushing strengthens, vitalises, and enlivens both your body and mind.
Conclusion
The process is simple. The technique, easy to learn. The benefits, unbelievable.
Dry brushing may be an age-old secret but it has forever changed the way in which we view the body and its internal workings. From the relatively unassuming combination of exfoliation and massage comes the incredible, invigorating effects or garshana that are bound to leave you looking and feeling better than ever before.
If you are interested in learning more about garshana, visit us at The Ayurvedic Clinic. Our Ayurvedic specialists would love to help you find the perfect massage technique that is not only specific to your dosha, but also promises to refresh, rejuvenate, and revitalise you.
