The Ultimate Ritual: Garshana and Abhyanga for Radiant Skin and Vitality

Nourishment starts here: Simple essentials for a deeply restorative ritual.

Recently, while wandering through some charming little shops with a friend, the topic of dry brushing came up. It reminded me just how much I love sharing these small rituals that can bring so much balance and joy into our lives. If you’re curious about self-care or feel like you could use more of it, this post is for you!

In Ayurveda, self-care isn’t just about pampering yourself; it’s a way to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Two of my favorite Ayurvedic practices, Garshana (dry brushing) and Abhyanga (self-massage with oil), are perfect examples of this holistic approach. Together, they detoxify, energize, and deeply nourish you—inside and out.

So, what exactly are Garshana and Abhyanga? Garshana, or dry brushing, uses a natural-bristle brush or raw silk gloves to exfoliate your skin, boost circulation, and support lymphatic drainage. Abhyanga takes things further with a self-massage using warm oils, chosen specifically for your dosha (Ayurvedic body type). It deeply hydrates, soothes your nervous system, and helps you feel more balanced. When you combine the two, Garshana preps your skin to fully absorb the nourishing oils during Abhyanga, making the whole experience even more transformative.

I’ve tried a lot of self-care practices over the years, but Abhyanga holds a special place in my heart. It’s so much more than moisturizing your skin. It’s about connecting with yourself on a deeper level. For me, it’s a ritual of self-love. As I massage each part of my body, I take a moment to express gratitude, letting my mind slow down and my heart open. It’s become a time to honor the journey my body and spirit have traveled together. The practice feels meditative, grounding, and nurturing all at once. Doesn’t that sound like just the thing we all need in our lives?

If you’re ready to give Garshana and Abhyanga a try, here’s how you can create a ritual that feels sacred and personal:

Set the Mood

First, find a quiet, warm space where you won’t be disturbed. Light a candle, play some calming music, or if your oil is unscented, diffuse your favorite essential oils to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Start with Garshana (Dry Brushing)

Using a natural-bristle brush or raw silk gloves, begin at your feet and work your way up. Use long, sweeping strokes toward your heart to support lymphatic flow. Focus on circular motions around joints like your knees and elbows, and use gentle, clockwise circles on your abdomen and buttocks. Be gentle on delicate areas like your chest and abdomen, and take your time covering your whole body.

Dry brushing is a great way to exfoliate, boost circulation, and wake up your energy. It’s invigorating and leaves your skin glowing!

Move into Abhyanga (Self-Massage)

To begin your Abhyanga ritual, warm your chosen oil and set an intention for self-care and connection. Start massaging the oil at the outer parts of your body, like your hands and feet (I prefer to start with me feet), and work inward toward your heart. Use long, flowing strokes on your arms and legs, and circular motions on your joints. For your abdomen and chest, use broad, circular movements in a clockwise direction. When massaging your abdomen, follow the natural flow of digestion. Move upward on the right side, across the top, and then downward on the left side.

Spend 5–20 minutes gently massaging your body, allowing yourself to move with care and patience. This is your chance to connect with your body. Notice how you’re feeling and express gratitude for all the ways your body supports you. At least once a week, give special attention to areas like your scalp. Apply a small amount of warm oil to the crown of your head and massage outward in slow, circular motions.

Optional: A Warm Rinse

You can rinse off with warm water if you’d like, but skip the soap to let the oils keep nourishing your skin. Or, if you’re not heading out for the day, leave the oil on for extra hydration. Personally, I love soaking in a warm bath or sauna after Abhyanga... It’s pure bliss!

Ayurveda is all about aligning with natural rhythms and fostering a connection to yourself. By making Garshana and Abhyanga part of your routine, you’ll not only enjoy glowing skin and better circulation, but you’ll also find moments of peace and self-love woven into your day.

If you’re just starting out, aim to do this ritual a couple of times a week. Adjust your oils based on the season or your dosha, and maybe finish with a short meditation or a moment of gratitude to complete the experience.

Have you tried Garshana or Abhyanga before? I’d love to hear about your experience or help answer any questions you have. Self-care is such a personal journey, and it’s always better when we share it together.

Hi there! I’m Wren, the owner and founder of Lily & Sage Yoga. I created this space to help others reconnect with themselves through movement, stillness, breath, and presence. I believe in meeting people where they are, honoring every part of the journey, and creating space that feels supportive, safe, and full of heart. My work is rooted in self-care, personal evolution, and the deep knowing that we are all worthy of love, healing, and growth. Whether I’m guiding a class, writing reflections, or holding space in community, my hope is to remind you that you already carry so much wisdom within. To learn more about my story and my mission, read my bio here. Thank you for being here!