Dry Brushing has recently gained popularity as an alternative way of cleaning and toning your body. It is a traditional Ayurvedic form of care that has been around for centuries. People in India have been practising it for decades. It is believed to have additional health benefits as well.
Some of the benefits of dry brushing include-
- Exfoliation
- Breaking down cellulite
- Helping the body get rid of toxins
- Increasing circulation
- Improving energy
Dry Brushing works as a way to exfoliate the skin. It is a manner of removing slough, dirt, and particles from your body and improving circulation. It involves taking a dry brush made of coarse, natural fibers and bristles and run it over your body in a definitive pattern. There is a precision and method that dry brushing should be performed. The coarse fibers are essential in removing dead skin and assist the skin in eliminating toxins through pores.
One of the biggest benefits of dry brushing is that it helps your body release toxins. It is a great way to relax and practice self-care. You can dry brush 2-3 times a week before going to sleep or after waking up. While there is no scientific proof to support dry brushing, there are no side effects or harmful effects of dry brushing. It is natural, safe, and easy to do.
Fluids flow through our system and are filtered through the lymph nodes. The lymphatic system helps your body fight off infections. If you fall sick or get exposed to toxins, the system can get blocked or clogged. You may notice that your lymph nodes become swollen when you suffer from a cold. This is where dry brushing comes in. It is thought to help the body release toxins through sweat. The coarse bristles on the brush act as stimulants for the pores and open them up. This allows the body to sweat and reduce the amount of toxins flowing through the lymphatic system.
The coarse bristles on the brush help to cleanse your skin, removing dry and dead cells. This leaves your skin supple, smooth, and soft. The act of dry brushing is intended to be like a massage. Indulge in dry brushing at a slow, relaxed pace, and do it comfortably. Massages have known to help with the appearance of cellulite. Cellulite is when certain areas have a rippled effect or stretch marks on your body. Dry brushing can help in improving the cellulite on your body by massaging it gently. The trick is to do it fine and not too vigorously.
Dry Brushing is definitely a good idea but it also has some risks. People with sensitive skin or skin conditions may find dry brushing to exacerbate their conditions. Open or inflamed skin can feel irritated if brushed with a coarse, dry brush. It can also cause redness, itching, and sensitivity if the bristles feel harsh against your skin. Dry brushing near open wounds can increase your chances of infection.
To dry brush, use a natural fiber brush with a long handle. The long handle will help you reach all areas of your body. Follow the steps mentioned below-
- Start at your feet and move up your body.
- Brush your skin using wide, circular, clockwise motions.
- Use light pressure in areas where your skin is thin and harder pressure on thicker skin, like the soles of your feet.
- Brush your arms after you have brushed your feet, legs, and mid-section. You should brush upward towards your armpits.
- After dry brushing, take a cool shower to help remove the dry skin.
- After your shower, dry off and then consider adding natural plant oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to moisturize your skin.
When you first start dry brushing, it’s recommended, to begin with light brushing. As you get used to it, you can work on increasing the pressure and time you dry brush.
Avoid sensitive areas and anywhere the skin is broken. These include areas with:
- rashes
- wounds
- cuts
- infections
Never brush an area affected by poison oak, poison ivy, or psoriasis. Dry brushing is strictly for the body. Do not dry brush your face or neck because the coarse bristles will hurt your skin and cause acne, pigmentation, and redness.
Dry brushes are easily available online or at stores. Purchase a sturdy one with good bristles and that is easy to use. You should also have a moisturizer or oil that you should apply once you are done massaging and dry brushing your body. Dry brushing kits contain brushes, creams, and moisturizers but they are also expensive. Consider investing in them if you practice dry brushing regularly.
