In case you haven’t noticed, dry brushing has become incredibly popular; and it’s not something to just brush aside either! After that terrible pun, we have to back it up with some good reasoning as to why dry brushing is an amazing practice for keeping your lymphatic system healthy.
What Is Dry Brushing?
Dry brushing is a cleansing technique that belongs to Ayurveda. It takes less than five minutes to do and helps to soften your skin. One of the most important things to remember is to not wet your skin. Dry brushing, as the name suggests, is meant to be done without any moisture. It works to increase blood circulation, promote detoxification, strengthen the immune system, and reduce cellulite.
How To Dry Brush
It is best to dry brush in the morning before you shower. You can do this once or twice a day to help exfoliate the skin and make it look healthier. Using a brush with firm bristles, start lightly brushing the soles of feet and then continue brushing upwards on your legs. Don’t brush too hard; rather, use a combination of light and firm strokes and avoid sensitive areas like scars or rashes. A great rule of thumb is to always brush towards your chest, where the lymphatic system drains; do this until you have brushed your entire body (you can use a long-handled brush to get your back). Don’t dry brush for longer than five minutes. In fact, two to three minutes is ideal. Shower when you are finished to wash away dead skin cells.
Note: Your skin should never be red after dry brushing. Slightly pink is acceptable, but don’t brush so hard that your skin is in pain.
Getting Rid Of Cellulite
Dry brushing helps to increase circulation and break up cellulite. A great routine is to dry brush, rinse off, and then apply virgin coconut oil to the affected areas. The skin absorbs the natural properties of coconut oil and can help break up the toxins, which comprise the cellulite.
Exfoliate
People who dry brush for the first time typically experience this as the first benefit. The entire process of dry brushing removes dead skin cells to naturally exfoliate the skin. After the first few days, you should notice that your skin feels softer and clearer. It is recommended to avoid the face, though.
Lymphatic Support
The lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes, organs, ducts, and vessels, which help to transport lymph (a fluid containing white blood cells) throughout the body. Running just below the skin, lymph needs healthy flow in order to naturally detoxify. Dry brushing helps to stimulate lymphatic flow and keep the lymphatic system healthy.
