In Ayurveda, the morning sets the tone for the entire day. That is why there is such an emphasis on setting up an Ayurvedic morning routine. But what do you need to get started? I’ll share with you what Ayurvedic tools and props I use daily to perform my morning routine so you can transform your mornings into a sacred ritual too!
It’s best to choose sustainable and durable tools and avoid plastic or one-time-use items. I’ll give some eco friendly recommendations that’ll look good in your home too!
Ayurvedic morning routine props for the bathroom
Tongue Cleaner
Tongue cleaning or tongue scraping is a vital part of Ayurvedic oral hygiene to gently remove toxins, debris, bacteria, dead cells, and food particles from the surface of the tongue accumulated overnight. Passing the tongue scraper over the tongue massages the corresponding areas of the organs on the tongue, stimulating digestion.
Copper or stainless steel tongue scrapers are best.
After each use, it’s important to clean the tongue cleaner thoroughly with soap and water to prevent bacterial growth and maintain hygiene. (I throw my copper one into the dishwasher). You can also use a spoon.
Oil pulling kit
Swishing oil (typically sesame or coconut oil) in the mouth for a few minutes helps remove bacteria and improve oral health. Many toxins are fat soluble, so oil pulling will pull the bacteria and toxins from your mouth. Start with 30 seconds or a minute, and work your way up. It can be quite tiring when you’re just starting out! When you’re finished with your oil pulling session, spit the used oil into a bin – never down the drain to avoid future blockages!
Neti Pot
A neti pot is used for nasal irrigation, usually with salt water. It helps clear nasal passages and promotes respiratory health, a practice known as Jala Neti in Ayurveda.
Jala Neti helps to flush out mucus, allergens, and other debris from the nasal passages, so you get relief from nasal congestion, stuffiness, and blockages. This can be especially beneficial for people suffering from allergies, sinusitis, or colds.
A ceramic neti pot is best. Use lukewarm filtered water and pink himalayan salt, rock salt or sea salt. Regular salt will also work if you don’t have anything else.
Ayurvedic morning routine props for the bedroom
Nasya oil
After rinsing the nasal passages, it’s time to use a dropper to drop a couple drops of oil into your nostrils (organic sesame oil or a nasya oil). This will seal the nasal passages from new allergens, bacteria and infections. Best is if you can lie down with your head tilted backwards for a few minutes and relax. Nasya is also good before bed.
Nasya is especially beneficial before and during a flight.
Dry brush
A natural bristle brush is used for dry brushing the skin before showering. This stimulates the lymphatic system, exfoliates dead skin cells, and promotes detoxification. Use long strongs and start with your limbs, always working towards the heart. I have two dry brushes: one without stem and one with a long stem so I can reach my back.
Abhyanga bottle warmer
Abhyanga is an oil massage with warm oil. The oil shouldn’t be scalding hot but not cold either. You can heat up the oil au bain marie or you can get a bottle warmer to keep the oil the same temperature during the whole of your massage. Abhyanga nourishes and protects the skin, improves circulation and relaxes the nervous system. Different Doshas should use different oils.
Sesame oil
Sesame oil has many potential uses in Ayurveda: it is used for oil pulling, Abhyanga massage, and even as a base for cooking in Ayurveda. It is highly regarded for its health benefits and it is a great choice for Vata.
Coconut oil
Like sesame oil, coconut oil has many uses. It is a great choice for Pitta Dosha and in summer.
Meditation room or meditation corner props
Meditation cushion
Starting your day with a short meditation will give you more mental clarity and emotional balance. There are many apps that teach you step-by-step how to meditate. Experiment with different techniques to find the one that suits you most.
A meditation cushion or stool will help you stay in the right posture for longer, and more comfortably.
Yoga mat
Doing a series of yoga asanas (poses) tailored to your body type (dosha) can help balance energies, improve flexibility, and strengthen muscles. The Ayurvedic morning routine recommends exercise in the morning, but it doesn’t need to be more than to work up a light sweat on your brow to release toxins.
Use a mat that is made from natural materials such as cork, organic cotton or jute. Cheap yoga mats will start to crumble easily, leading to microplastics in the environment. You need to be able to bring your nose up down to the mat without feeling repulsed by the petroleum based chemical smells.
Incense or essential oil diffuser
Aromatherapy with scents like sandalwood, lavender, or frankincense during morning rituals can help create a calming ambiance and sets the mood. If you don’t feel particularly motivated one morning to start your routine, I find that lighting incense always helps to create the right atmosphere.
It’s better to spend a bit more and go for quality and organic incense and essential oils. Cheaper versions often contain fillers that are chemical and toxic.
Sadhana journal
Journalling is more popular than ever, and with reason. A dedicated journal for recording thoughts, gratitude, intentions, and reflections will help to cultivate mindfulness and self-awareness. Check out my forgiveness journal too!
Ayurvedic morning rituals
When you incorporate Ayurvedic practices into your daily routine and make them into strong habits, you’ll cultivate balance, vitality, and harmony in every aspect of your life. You don’t need these tools to start an Ayurvedic morning routine, but I find them helpful, and they set the tone in my bathroom, bedroom and meditation room/ corner.
More on the Ayurvedic morning routine
Want to learn more? Check out my online on demand workshop: Create your own Ayurvedic morning routine for a morning ritual that you can stick to, without feeling overwhelmed!
Go to my free resources page to find shopping recommendations for your Ayurvedic morning ritual!
