Dry Skin Brushing, What It Is and Why You Should Do it

Today I wanted to share with you a very old practice that I have been doing for a couple of months that I think is pretty amazing. Dry skin brushing is an easy way to keep the skin exfoliated which helps the body’s natural detoxification process. I find when I do it I feel relaxed yet energized and it also helps me sleep better. Essentially the practice helps your body rid itself of toxins, but that’s not the only benefit, here are some more:

• Helps loosen and shed dead skin cells, and will rejuvenate and soften the skin, improve texture, and promote cell renewal.
• Improves circulation, allows the body to expel more toxins and helps eliminate cellulite.
• Stimulates lymph flow, which allows for drainage of toxins into the colon. Through this process, blood and tissues experience a deeper level of cleansing, which also strengthens the immune system.
• Contributes to a more even distribution of fat deposits, which reduces and prevents cellulite.

Yeah, that’s right, it helps reduce cellulite! Do I have your attention?! Ok, so now we know what it does, but how do we do it? First you want to get yourself a brush with natural bristles, NOT synthetic. I got mine at Whole Foods for $20 but you can get it for half the price here. You want to get one that has a long handle so you can get your back. The one I got is removable which is nice. Here are some general guidelines:

• The best time to dry brush is before a shower
• Start at your feet, using long, even, upward strokes, always moving toward your heart. Brushing towards your heart is important, because it stimulates your circulation. Circular motions are ok too, especially on isolated areas that have, or are prone to, cellulite.
• Avoid sensitive areas like breasts
• Do not brush over broken skin, infections, or inflamed areas.
• Over time, your skin will be able to tolerate more pressure but it’s best to start with light, single strokes.
• Do not use a dry brush on your face.
• Take a shower to further eliminate metabolic wastes.
• Your skin will readily absorb things so moisturize with an all natural lotion or oil.
• Clean your brush with warm water and a mild soap once a week to prevent mildew. Let it air dry before you use it again.

See the photo below to see what direction to stroke. The dots symbolize lymph nodes and you want to brush towards those to encourage toxin elimination.

Have you ever tried dry skin brushing? What do you think about it?

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XO,

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