As a bodyworker, I am interested to see seasonal trends show up in my clients’ bodies. Here after the end of summer, I am reminded how healthy it is to deeply scrub the skin as I see sun-kissed skin ready for a fresh start.

Ayurveda sees the skin as a vital organ. By caring for our skin, we impact the lymphatic system, responsible for purification and immunity, which serves to nourish all the other tissues of the body.

There are many easy and enjoyable ways to scrub at home. Dry brushing, from extremities toward the core, boosts lymphatic circulation. I have a few skin brushes at home, one with soft natural bristles for lymphatic dry brushing and another for a firmer, more vigorous exfoliation. Another way to scrub is by making a paste of body oil with salt or sugar. I like to massage this into skin while sitting on a towel to minimize the mess. Hop in the shower or take a warm bath to rinse clean. You may also treat yourself to a spa treatment like a scrub at the Havana Korean Spa in Denver. They are scrub experts!

After a scrub, it is important to nourish and rebuild the skin with a high quality oil. Sesame oil is a traditional healing oil in Ayurveda, though any natural oil you have in your kitchen like olive or coconut will be great as well. Oil application is especially important for those of us with dry skin or a tendency for cold hands and feet, indicating a higher Vata presence in the body.

Self-massage with a nourishing oil is deeply soothing to the nervous system and supports hormonal balance. Interestingly, self-massage has many of the effects of receiving a massage from another person, like releasing endorphins, our natural pain relieving neurotransmitters, and oxytocin, a hormone generating feelings of love and belonging.

I hope you are feeling inspired to scrub and shed your skin for a fresh start inside and out! Self-care is always worth it 🖤