Your Skin.
Your skin is a complex system made up of nerves, glands, and cell layers that, when healthy, serves as a buffer that helps protect your body from extreme temperatures and chemicals. It also produces antibacterial substances to protect you from infection and enables your body to produce vitamin D when exposed to the sun. Your skin even contains densely packed nerve cells that act as messengers to your brain, making your skin a crucial part of your interactions with the world around you. Another crucial role your skin plays is supporting optimal detoxification. But if your skin is overrun with toxins or dead skin cells, it will not be able to eliminate wastes from your body efficiently. (www.mercola.com)
Dry Brushing the Skin.
So what is it? It is exactly what it sounds like. Dry brushing is an exfoliation technique on dry skin to promote and improve lymphatic drainage and improve one's circulation. Light pressure is used with a natural-fiber brush. It is similar to friction caused in the Japanese custom of kanpumasatsu where a dry towel is used, however the practice and purpose are not the same.
Stimulate Your Lymphatic System
In your body, your lymphatic system is the system responsible for eliminating cellular waste products. Hundreds of miles of lymphatic tubules allow waste to be collected from your tissues and transported to your blood for elimination, a process referred to as lymphatic drainage. When your lymphatic system is not working properly, waste and toxins can build up and make you sick. Lymphatic congestion is a major factor leading to inflammation and disease. By stimulating your lymphatic system and helping it release toxins, dry skin brushing is a powerful detoxification aid.
Exfoliation & Circulation.
Dry skin brushing removes dead, dry skin. It improves appearance, clears clogged pores, and allows skin to breathe. Brushing increases circulation to the skin, which encourages the elimination of metabolic waste.
The Appearance of Cellulite.
Dry skin brushing may help to soften hard fat deposits below the skin while distributing the deposits more evenly. This may help to diminish the appearance of cellulite by removing toxins that may break down connective tissue. One theory is that the effect is temporary and due to a result of the skin becoming more plump and swollen after brushing. You know your body better than anyone, so decide what works for you.
Improve Digestion and Kidney Function
Dry skin brushing may go even deeper, helping to support your digestion and organ function. Some naturopathic doctors use dry brushing to help with bloating because massaging the lymph nodes helps the body shed excess water and toxins. One of the immediate effects is smoother skin, and can also help improve digestion and kidney function.
Reduce Stress.
When performed in a quiet space, the act of dry brushing has been described as meditative. It may help to reduce muscle tension, calm your mind, and relieve stress. Many compare it to a light whole-body massage. However, one can also feel invigorated after a session due to increased blood flow to the skin.
The Brush.
Use a high-quality dry brush. Look for one with bristles made from natural materials. They should feel stiff but not overly so. There are a wide variety of brushes on the market. I prefer a hand held one, however a long handled brush would allow one to reach your entire back and other hard-to-reach spots if you are not flexible.
The How To.
Dry skin brushing should be done daily for best results. Try incorporating it into your normal daily routine, such as before your daily shower. Avoid brushing before bedtime, as it may leave you feeling energized.
Always brush toward your heart, which is best for circulation and your lymphatic system. Start at the soles of your feet and work your way up the legs to your arms, chest, back, and stomach. Avoid dry brushing your face. There is a special brush designed for the delicate skin on your face. Also avoid any areas with irritations, broken skin, or abrasions (including varicose veins).
The pressure you apply while brushing your skin should be firm, but not painful. Avoid a scrubbing motion. Your skin should be pink after a session, not red or irritated. Brush for as long, or as little, as you’d like. An average dry brushing session may last between two and 20 minutes.