Start your day with an invigorating Garshana and soothing Abhyanga!

WHAT YOU NEED:  Purchase a personal hand sized, soft, natural bristle brush with a long handle, or muku mitt.  Traditionally, Ayurveda uses silk gloves to perform garshana.  Avoid synthetic fiber brushes and puffs because they are too rough.

Here's what you do...

As a daily ritual, upon rising, brush nude in a private quiet space before bathing.  Be gentle at first, the skin will become seasoned after a few weeks.  Take extra care of tender areas.  Avoid any problem spots, such as rashes or sores.  As you become accustomed to the sensation, rub your skin quickly and fairly vigorously.  Over the long bones of the arms and legs, use sweeping, back and forth strokes.  Change to small circular movements when you reach the joints of the shoulders, elbows, wrists, etc.

Begin with the soles of the feet then brush your way up each leg.  Pay special attention to the body parts where you might experience regular pain, such as the knees.  If cellulite is an issue spend some time giving attention to those areas.  Always finish any area with gentle strokes towards the heart.  Progress from the legs to the hands and arms, brushing towards the shoulders.  Next brush the head, ears and down the neck.  Finish with the torso. 

Using the long wooden handle, brush your entire back then proceed to the front.  A circular motion feels good.  Going in a clockwise motion around the belly button helps digestion.  Be aware, this is a time to enjoy being with your body.  Breathe deeply while you brush.  You can say nice things to yourself, such as “I love this body and see it radiantly healthy and filled with vitality.”