Ayurvedic dry brushing, known as Garshana in Sanskrit, is a massage technique that utilizes friction to stimulate and clear toxins from the body.⁣
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This stimulating lymphatic massage is an ancient Ayurvedic practice to detoxify the lymphatic system, refresh your skin and revive the mind. ⁣
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It is especially beneficial in times of Kapha build up and in the season of spring when the Kapha needs clearing to prevent congestion and allergies.⁣
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Dry brushing should leave you feeling lighter, with more energy and vitality, strengthened digestion, and boosted metabolism. There is lightness in the body, and clarity of mind.⁣Dry body brushing is one of the oldest practices in Ayurvedic medicine that’s believed to offer multiple health benefits.

The concept is quite simple: the coarse bristles of a dry brush remove dead skin cells that are clogging the pores, thus helping the body to relieve itself of toxins. And, true to its name, you’re using the dry brush on dry skin, not in the shower while covered in soap and water.

Does dry body brushing work the way the ancients would have us believe? Here’s what we know to be undoubtedly true and why a few myths may forever remain a mystery.

The Benefits of Dry Body Brushing for Skin Health

For centuries, similar stories have been told about the positive effects of dry brushing. Here are a few of the most common benefits that even experts can’t deny:

Dry Brushing Exfoliates the Skin

The dry brush is designed to remove dead skin cells, so exfoliation is built into its design. The specialised bristles sweep away skin cells that make your skin look dull, tired, or uneven. After dry brushing, you’ll notice how much softer and smoother your skin feels.

It Improves Circulation

Dry brushing is said to help your body remove toxins by unclogging the pores. A natural byproduct of this is improved blood circulation. Good circulation is an important part of ridding the body of toxins. After dry brushing, you’ll notice your skin is a little redder, and that’s not just from irritation. It’s the direct result of improving circulation in the dry brushed areas.

It Energises Your Mind and Body

It could be the increased circulation. Or it could be the fact that dry brushing has a calming effect on some people. Whatever the case, many people report feeling renewed and energised after dry brushing.

 

However, this doesn’t mean that dry brushing can’t support good digestion or improve the lymphatic system. After all, dry brushing is a form of massage, and massaging an upset tummy or swollen lymph nodes has been shown to have positive effects.

How to Dry Brush Your Body for Better Skin Health

If you’re interested in trying dry body brushing for yourself, there is a “right” way to do it. This quick video shows you step by step how to use a dry brush, which direction to move your brush, and how to care for your skin after each session.

For a more sustainable beauty routine, consider choosing a vegan dry body brush made from bamboo with cactus sisal fibre bristles and natural rubber nodules. It does your health and the environment a favour!

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