What is dry brushing?
Body brushing (or dry brushing) is a technique used to exfoliate the skin by brushing in a sweeping motion all over the body. The dry bristles on the brush remove dead skin cells, unclogging pores making the skin smoother and softer. Body brushing increases circulation in the blood, promotes lymphatic drainage and lymphatic flow, and helps the body release toxins. And it just feels good!
How does dry brushing help the body?
By brushing the body, you are improving your blood circulation. The continuous flow of blood through the body is crucial to aging well. Organs need oxygen and blood to perform properly. Without well-functioning circulation, your health will decline! And you skin will not look so great…and be honest, we all want youthful skin as we age!
Luckily, body brushing (dry brushing) is an easy and quick way to maintain that youthful appearance while helping your body out. All you need is a body brush. You will want to look for a brush with stiff, natural bristles, and a handle to reach your back area. I use this one with a detachable handle. It’s great for the hard-to-reach areas (back) and the closer areas (neck/chest) once the handle is removed.
Let’s get brushing!
The best time to dry brush is before showering. It only takes a few minutes and voilà – you’ve exfoliated the skin! Remember, you’re using a dry brush, so you will want to maintain light pressure when performing this technique. The key to properly body brushing is to follow the lymphatic drainage flow. Lymphatic fluid drains in collecting ducts throughout the body. The idea is to brush TOWARDS the heart. So, you will want to begin at your feet and work your way up.
- Begin working the brush in a sweeping motion at your feet and perform this move all the way up your legs. Be sure and get the bottom of your feet, back of the legs, and buttocks area.
- Next, start with the arms working from the palm of the hands to the chest. Be sure and get your armpit area.
- Using the handle, attach the brush and begin brushing the back area. Work your way from the top of your buttocks upwards, towards the back of your neck.
- Remove the handle and dry brush the lower stomach, abdomen area. Remember to brush upwards, in a sweeping motion to the chest.
- Now you’re ready to shower and moisturize!
Keep your brush clean
Be sure and clean your brush after each use. I use a mixture of tea tree oil and lemongrass oil. Two drops of each in a bowl of warm water. Place the brush bristle side down, leaving the wood out of the solution. Swirl the brush to release dead skin cells and dirt and let sit for 7-10 minutes. Remove and shake the brush of excess water and let it dry on a towel.
And there you have it! You are ready for your next stress brushing sesh! Get in the habit of body brushing and you’ll feel (and look) so much better!
