These days people spend abundant time and money on their facial skin but what about the rest of the body? We brush our hair often enough to smooth out our appearance but what about smoothing out our drainage system working hard everyday to remove toxins below our surface?
The skin is our body’s biggest organ and is largely responsible for detoxification. As it is our protective layer it is often exposed to knocks and bumps, toxins and harsh outside elements, such as the sun. It is very important that we don’t forget to nurture it and keep it functioning at optimal level. Dry body brushing is a cheap, simple and yet extremely effective way to do this. Originating from ancient Indian Ayervedic traditions, this technique has been used for thousands of years to improve wellbeing. Here are some reasons why.
Exfoliate. Dry brushing helps to remove dead and dry skin cells, clear clogged pores and allow for a softer, renewed and glowing skin appearance. When our pores are open it is easier for the skin to eliminate unwanted toxins.
Improve lymphatic drainage. Cellular waste products are carried from our tissue to the blood for elimination via our lymphatic system. Many people think our lymphatic system lies deep within our bodies when in fact many of our lymph nodes and drainage pathways lie just beneath the skin. Dry brushing hence helps smooth out these channels and assists the flow of toxins along the lymphatic system and out of the body. As the lymphatic system does not have a pump to move toxins along, body brushing is highly beneficial in speeding up this process.
Get rid of cellulite. Body brushing can help break down fat deposits and lessen the appearance of cellulite.
Anti Aging Brushing prevents premature aging by improving skin texture and getting rid of old skin, that can give off a dry, leathery effect. New, rejuvenated, fresh skin cells are revealed and the skin stays younger for longer.
Improve circulation. Brushing encourages circulation in the skin which creates better flexibility, ability to absorb moisture and increased toxin elimination.
Treat yourself. Many advocates describe it as a massage-like relaxing and de-stressing practise. Soothe yourself with a gentle brush massage after as long, tiring day to calm the body and mind.
How to do it
The golden rule of body brushing is to brush towards to heart. Brushing away from the heart actually puts stress on the lymphatic system. Aim to brush towards major lymph nodes such as the neck, groin and armpits which will result in going towards to heart naturally.
Brush in one long, fluid upward movement towards to heart. Circular strokes in a clockwise direction can be done gently over the digestive system.
Avoid sensitive areas such as sunburn, cuts, rashes, genitalia, an active cancer area and over allergic reactions.
Make sure both the skin and the brush bristles are dry.
After dry body brushing, nourish your body with some form of life giving water such as a bath, shower, steam room or body mask to hydrate.
Remember that the skin is one of the most important pathways to good health; adding a simple practise like dry body brushing to your daily routine can largely benefit your wellbeing and have you glowing both inside and out.