During a conversation about my sleep issues, Shikha Sud, a clinical hypnotherapist and energy healer at Ananda in the Himalayas, asked me something that made me pause and reflect. She said, “The question isn’t why you aren’t sleeping; the real question is: do you want to sleep?” Her words hit me hard, and I started to laugh. “Oh my God, you’re right,” I replied, “The truth is, I don’t want to sleep. It’s not that I can’t; I just don’t want to!” 

What is Garshana or Dry brushing?

Dry brushing a very popular practice finds its roots in Garshana, an ancient Ayurvedic technique that uses a brush with coarse natural fiber bristles over the skin. Ayurvedic dry brushing is done by massaging natural dry powders on the skin in upward strokes. Dry brushing helps to exfoliate dead skin and increases blood circulation. It opens clogged pores, drains lymphatic fluids and aids detoxification. Garshana is stimulating, it helps loosen the state of stagnant energy in a system or an organ by balancing excess Kapha.

How long has it been around and how has it evolved into the practice it is today?

Garshana is an ancient practice, and it has always been an important part of therapeutic ayurvedic procedures. Over time, with people living very busy lives, the practice of Garshana evolved to using brushes over powders. Udwarthana, a dry massage using herbal powders to break down excess subcutaneous fat was also performed by using brick powder and wood powder in earlier times.

Can you explain what the three doshas are and how they correlate to your skin type/how often you should be dry brushing?

In Ayurvedic philosophy the five elements combine in pairs to form the three dynamic forces called doshas. Vata (air and space) governs the mobility and impulses in our body and mind. Pitta (water and fire) takes care of the overall energy and emotions attached to thought process, while Kapha (earth and water) provides stability and nourishment. Doshas are primary life forces or biological humors found in all life forms and Ayurveda categorizes personalities under one of these bio energies. There are a preferable set of elaborate rules listed as guidance for each personality types.

People with different doshas have different skin traits. Garshana is a stimulating therapy, people who are predominantly kapha in their constitution will benefit the most and can practice it daily. Those who are predominantly pitta can practice dry brushing twice a week. The Vata personality type would best benefit from doing this practice once per week if required, for the vata type, dry powders are often mixed with ghee or sesame oil. People with sensitive skin, prone to rashes, eruptions or any other similar condition must always consult an Ayurveda physician to avoid aggravating their condition.

What are the benefits of dry brushing?

• Garshana pacifies the aggravated Kapha dosha
• Reduces the excess fat accumulated in the subcutaneous tissues
• Softens and exfoliates dead skin cells, thereby giving a lustrous glow to skin
• Detoxification, purification, toning the skin promotes tighter skin, cell renewal and blood flow
• Eliminates bad body odor
• Improves mobility of joints
• Strengthens and tones up the muscles
• Refreshes and rejuvenates the body
• Takes care of conditions due to improper blood supply

Dry brushing improves cellulite, is this the primary purpose for Garshana?

The origin of this practice was only for health benefits, the aesthetics is an added advantage. The purpose of Garshana was originally not to address cellulite formation, but for deeper internal benefits such as detoxification. Once the accumulated fat deposit loosens and moves out of the system, it overall increases the circulation resulting in the cure of diverse health issues and aches & pains. The cellulite dissolving through Garshana is a by-product and an added advantage.

How do you choose the right brush for face and body?

Garshana is traditionally done using raw silk or linen gloves, though many prefer to use a natural bristle body brush.

What's the best way to practice dry brushing?

Dry brushing is best done in the morning before bathing, with dry skin that is free from lotion or oil. Make sure the room used for the therapeutic practice is warm and has a comfortable temperature.

The term Chaturmas comes from the combination of "Chatur" (four) and "Mas" (month) in Sanskrit. It refers to a sacred period of four months, from July to October. In India, some of the most important festivals are during this period including Janmashtami, Dussehra and Diwali are celebrated. Various types of fasting practices, known as upvas, are observed during these festivities, believed to be beneficial for the self.

Your gut and its health are the foundation of everything in the body. Recently there has been a growing focus on gut health within the realm of wellness. Extensive research has shed light on the significant role of a healthy gut beyond digestion, including its impact on mental well-being. It has been observed that individuals experiencing depression and anxiety often witness improvements when adopting a wholesome diet free from processed foods. This is because processed foods, typically high in sugar and salt, can negatively affect the balance of gut flora. Ayurveda for gut health, with its profound understanding of these intricate connections, places great emphasis on enhancing digestion and metabolism to promote overall well-being.

Lady: I've been feeling off lately, probably pre-menopause. It reminded me of how tough menopause was for my mom. She really struggled with mood swings and hot flashes.
Husband: I remember you talking about it. Do you think you'll go through the same thing?
Lady: Honestly, I’m desperate to avoid the same misery she went through. It was really hard on her and everyone around her.
Husband: Isn't it something you just have to endure?
Lady: Not necessarily. There are ways to make it easier. I’ve been reading about some holistic methods that can really help reduce the issues and support this change better.
Husband: Like what?
Lady: Healthy diet, yoga, and other natural practices. We should look into it and see how I can benefit through this. Let’s do some research together.

This exchange between a couple highlights a common scenario in many households. Menopause is a significant phase in a woman's life, often misunderstood and seldom discussed openly. As families strive to support their loved ones, gaining a deeper understanding of menopause can make a substantial difference. The following sections explore the reasons behind the lack of awareness, the unpreparedness of many households, the benefits of holistic methods, and the perspectives of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda on menopause. Additionally, practical advice on providing support is offered to help families navigate this transition more smoothly.