Cleansing The Channels

Ayurvedic PracticesBodycareSelfcareDinacharyaChannels

Apr 3

According to Ayurveda, it is important to wake up and cleanse the channels (srotamsi)! While you sleep, the body is going through a deep clean and pushing all the dead cells to the surface of the skin. Showering first thing in the morning is a great way to rinse the skin of the dead cells so it is ready and clear for new cells to go through the same process the next day.

When we do not clear our channels (pores, colon, mouth, ears, eyes) it's like adding to a clogged toilet. If you feel sluggish, lethargic, groggy or slow in the morning, try taking a cool shower to help wake up the body, clear the channels and stimulate your appetite. Be mindful of the temperature as the water should feel refreshing, not stimulating or aggravating to the senses.

Tongue Scraping: The mouth is the beginning of the digestive tract. which means our dental hygiene impacts digestion. One way to care for your digestion is by scraping the tongue first thing in the morning, even before drinking water. As part of the body's overnight detox, the mouth is also trying to get rid of accumulated toxins. Start by gently scraping your tongue from back to front in one motion.

Rinse off any accumulation and scrape one more time, but no more. If you notice a coating still on your tongue that is a sign of ama in the body. This is common, but should be addressed so it does not further accumulate, which invites disease to manifest. You can help get rid of ama by going for a walk before eating or drinking lemon water before meals, both will stimulate the digestive fire.

Eye Washing: An absolute favorite of mine! The eves are a seat of Pitta, which means it is easy for heat to accumulate here. Rinsing the eyes with cool water in the morning and evening is a great way to keen your eyes in balance, especially if you have a lot of screen time! Gently splash the cool water into your eyes and roll them around. It is so refreshing, I never miss an AM or PM eye rinse!