PERFORM A POST-BATHING SKIN-CARE RITUAL 
PERFORM A POST-BATHING SKIN-CARE RITUAL Dry skin, a lackluster complexion, dark circles, and congestion in your body are signs that you need a boost in circulation of both lymph and blood this winter. This week, after every shower or bath, take ten minutes to perform a calming, two-part self-care ritual that will speed up circulation, support immunity and hormone balance, and restore glow to your winter-weary skin. You’ll need a dry brush (an inexpensive tool that you can find at a drugstore or online) and an organic body oil free of synthetic fragrance. This can be as simple as plain coconut, almond, or sesame oil. After your bath or shower, use your dry brush to gently yet firmly brush your skin, from your hands and feet in toward your heart (see the instructions on page 51). Follow with a five-minute self-massage (called abhyanga in the Ayurvedic tradition) in the same direction, with your body oil. Finish by massaging your stomach clockwise with oil. If you’re performing this self-care ritual at night, wrap yourself in a robe or cozy pajamas and let the oil fully soak into your skin while you sleep.