October 2nd, 2020
Dry Brushing (and How to Do It)
You may have heard of this practice or even already include it in your routine. Dry brushing dates back to ancient times and is still practised in many spas.
There Are a Number of Benefits to Dry Brushing
- Helps the body detoxify naturally. Dry brushing is often associated with stimulation of the lymphatic system. This is part of the body’s immune system and is responsible for removing waste products.
- Energizing. The reviving impact of the firm bristles certainly makes it feel like they are stimulating your circulation. Personally, it gives a ‘zing’ to my skin (sorry folks, that’s the most accurate word I can use to describe it – “zing!”).
- Exfoliation. Your dry skin will love a good body brush. The process removes dead skin cells and if done regularly, should keep your skin softer and more radiant.
- Cellulite. Although the claims are anecdotal, there are many people who maintain that regular brushing has reduced the appearance of cellulite for them.
How to Dry Brush
- Dry brushes can have a long or short handle. I prefer one that fits into the palm of my hand, as I find I can manage the pressure of my brushing better. They are constructed of wood or similar natural materials and the bristles themselves are natural too. Make sure that if you are starting out, you do not select bristles that are too harsh. You can work your way up over time.
- Using short, overlapping brush strokes, brush from your extremities toward your heart.
- Start from the soles of your feet and work toward your abdomen.
- Do the same with your arms, starting from your palms.
- When you reach your stomach and chest areas, brush in a clockwise direction.
- If you don’t suffer from rosacea or sensitive skin, you can also dry brush your face, but I would recommend purchasing a softer, smaller brush for this.
- Moisturize. Some people spray oils on their brush before brushing. Whether you do this or moisturise afterwards, make sure that you do apply a moisturizer. Your skin would be so much more open to absorption after brushing.
- Most experts recommend dry brushing in the morning, due to the energizing effects of this practice.
As with most self-care routines, find what works best for you. This approach ensures you have a better chance of sticking with and feeling the long-term benefits of a habit.
The way I feel – invigorated and glowy – encourages me to regularly practise it as part of my morning shower routine.
Give dry brushing a try for a few weeks and let me know if you feel the benefits. I am always happy to hear from you.
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