The practice of dry brushing goes back to ancient times. It is a traditional Ayurvedic healing practice that has been used for centuries to stimulate blood and lymph circulation, gently exfoliate the skin, and help eliminate toxins.

So, let’s see how dry brushing works and its excellent benefits.

How to dry brush effectively?

The practice is simple, and everyone can do it at home at almost no cost. You can buy a dry brush at nearly any health store for less than 20$. It is a large brush with coarse, natural bristles. Usually, it has a long handle to reach all areas of your body easily. You may choose a dry brush with a short or no handle if you are extra flexible. These can be handy as they can fit into your travel bag. A brush with softer bristles is excellent to use on your face or in case you have more delicate and sensitive skin. 

Once equipped with a proper brush, it is time to start the practice! Sit comfortably and create a unique spa atmosphere, perhaps playing soft, relaxing music or lighting a candle or an incense stick. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Start from your feet and move up. You should make motions in the direction of your heart to help direct blood and lymph towards your vital organs.
2. Use wide motions in the clockwise direction.
3. On the spots where the skin is soft and sensitive, use gentle, light pressure. You can apply harder pressure where the skin is thicker, as on the soles of the feet, for example.
4. After dry brushing, take a cool shower to remove all the little dead skin flakes and increase blood circulation. 
5. After showering, apply natural, cold-pressed plant oil – like coconut, sesame, or almond oil- to nourish your skin, help it retain hydration, and remain moisturized and soft for a long time.

Warning: You should avoid all areas where the skin is irritated or broken because of wounds, rashes, acne, cuts, or being affected by skin conditions such as psoriasis or others. If you have such conditions, it is good to consult your dermatologist before you start dry brushing.

What are the benefits of dry brushing?

1. Exfoliation – dead cells are removed from the skin, and it appears softer and smoother
2. Elimination of toxins – The skin pores are freed, and the skin can breathe and sweat more efficiently, which enhances the removal of toxins.
3. Lymph circulation relies on body motions and massage to move; it does not have a circulation of its own. Dry brushing moves the lymph to the lymph nodes, where it is processed and prevents lymphatic stagnation and toxic buildup in any part of the body.
4. Relaxation – Dry brushing affects our nervous system, similar to massage. It is soothing and energizing at the same time. It helps the flow of energy in our body and positively stimulates our touch receptors, inducing an increased flow of feel-good hormones.
5. Cellulite – if you stick with the ritual, it helps reduce the cellulite considerably.

In Conclusion:

Dry brushing can be a rewarding ritual of self-care. It nourishes our skin, improves blood circulation, and soothes meridian points. Try incorporating it into your evening or morning routine and witness the results!