Almost everyone has heard about brushing our teeth, to clean them, using toothpaste. But not everyone has heard of something called dry brushing. This is a brushing which does not involve the teeth at all!
Dry Brushing is a simple detoxification process, the benefits of which are being increasingly revisited; & the adoption of which as a lifestyle practice increasingly encouraged, in contemporary times. The origins of this process are traced way back in time to the ancient Indian science of wellness- Ayurveda, where it was advocated as Garshana, one of the important constituents of Dinacharya– or a balanced daily routine for the mind, body, & spirit.
Dry brushing involves sweeping the body, beginning from the feet upwards in long, smooth, circular motions, in the direction of the heart. What does this process do:
- Helps eliminate dead skin cells & stimulate faster growth of new ones.
- Helps eliminate accumulated toxins & compliments the lymphatic system in this process (by stimulating the lymph nodes which are accumulated in areas like armpits, elbows etc.)
- Helps in a healthier blood circulation throughout the body
- Helps stimulate organs internally & aid digestion
- Helps in inner energizing
- Helps in shedding off cellulite
- Helps in exfoliation & outer wellbeing of skin
A long or short brush, as per comfort & availability, with semi coarse natural fiber bristles may be used. The ideal time for dry brushing in Ayurveda, is right before morning bath/shower. One may choose to follow it daily, or if that is not possible, at least a few days a week, or once a week.
Sensitive areas such as the groin, neck, & face must be avoided. Also, any other area which is too sensitive or inflamed, or feels so upon dry brushing; & any cuts, wounds, rashes etc. must be carefully avoided.