If you’re not already dry brushing, you need to start, pronto. The health benefits are countless, and you will see and feel a difference once you start adding this to your daily routine.
How To Start Dry Brushing
Unlike many other health fads, it’s incredibly easy and low-cost to start dry brushing. Find a high-quality dry brush made with natural materials (we love this two-brush set, and you cannot beat the price!).
Dry brushing has the biggest impact when it’s done at least once a day. We definitely recommend brushing in the morning, as it can be an energizing experience, which is not something you want near bedtime.
This should go without saying, but just to emphasize, always use a dry brush on completely dry skin. A perfect time is before your morning shower, or before you get dressed for the day (in the case you’re an evening shower kind of gal). Always brush towards your heart (lymphatic fluid flows towards your heart), and use enough pressure so that it feels stimulating, but not painful.
This video goes into a bit more detail on exactly how and where to brush:
Stimulate Your Lymphatic System
Here’s the thing. A lot of people like to argue that you don’t need to do anything special to help your body detoxify, because it’s built to do that on it’s own. They argue against cleanses and detoxes for this reason. But – and this is a big but – the body was never, ever meant to be able to detoxify all of the horrible chemicals and toxins that we are exposed to in our modern society. So, yes, your body needs as much help detoxing as possible.
A healthy lymphatic system is key in preventing a buildup of waste and toxins in your body. Essentially, your lymphatic system is your body’s detox pathway, and runs hundreds of miles throughout your insides. Lymphatic tubules collect waste from your tissues and deposit it in your blood for elimination – this is called lymphatic drainage.
If your lymphatic system isn’t functioning properly, and if it’s clogged with waste and toxins, inflammation and disease occur. Dry brushing helps support your lymphatic system so that it is operating optimally, despite whatever toxins you are exposed to day-to-day. It’s like a little mini-cleanse to start your day.
Increase Circulation
Each time you dry brush, you’re increasing circulation to your skin. This also helps encourage the elimination of metabolic waste. Increased circulation also gives you a healthier, more vibrant look to your skin.
Dry brushing also is a gentle exfoliator and helps to encourage production of new skin cells. It helps to reduce bloating by encouraging the body to release excess water and toxins.
Reduce Cellulite
Okay, we probably should have listed this as #1, because it’s just that exciting. Dry brushing can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Increasing circulation plays a big role in this, as well as the fact that dry brushing can help to soften the hard fat deposits below the skin.
Can we get an amen?
AMEN.
But really, dry brushing can dramatically help the appearance of your skin, by reducing cellulite, encouraging proper bloodflow, and removing toxins that can create a less-than-stellar appearance. Your skin will be glowing, brighter, and tighter.
Lower Stress
Many people who begin a daily dry brushing routine report feeling less stressed. Having a routine can help you feel more in control, as well as a sense of calm in knowing what to expect. But beyond that, it’s almost a meditative practice – having a few minutes of peace to yourself, as you gently brush away. Dry brushing also relieves muscle tension.
Try dry brushing for 30 days and we pretty much guarantee you’ll be hooked. It’s an incredible way to treat your body, de-stress, relax, see visual benefits to your body, and experience some pretty incredible health benefits as well.
For more wellness tips and ideas, check out our Healthy Living section.
