How and Why to Dry Brush

How and Why to Dry Brush
If you follow my stories on Instagram, you know I am a big fan of dry brushing. I do it at least 5-6 days a week.

Why?

Well, it is really quick and easy and has some incredible benefits, including:

  • Encouraging Detoxification
  • Enhances Blood & Lymph Flow
  • Decreases Water Retention
  • Decreases the Appearance of Cellulite
  • Removes Dead Skin & Unclogs Pores
  • Makes Skin Softer
  • Energizing
  • Stress Relief
One of the main reasons I do it is it supports the lymphatic system! I Not only is the lymphatic system a key component in detoxification, it is actually part of your immune system as well - which means it helps to defend you from bacteria and other harmful invaders.

It carries waste away from the tissues and into the bloodstream so that it can then be cycled through the liver or wherever needed for elimination. Pretty impressive, right?

The other cool thing about it is it focuses on removing toxins that have been introduced by both internal and external means -- meaning it will detox internal toxins, like metabolic waste as well as toxins that have come from our environment.

The lymphatic system loves movement...and it needs it because it doesn’t have a pump, like the circulatory system has the heart to pump it around. 

One way to create that movement is through massage and dry brushing is like a mini massage!

When choosing a dry brush, you don't need to get anything fancy. You can literally grab a brush at Target or Kmart. Just ensure you get a brush with natural fibres. They may feel hard at first, but the skin will adapt. 

Make sure you don't press too hard. We aren't trying to break or irritate the skin.

To dry brush, use long, sweeping or circular motions. Do not use back and forth motions.

Do not brush over broken, irritated or infected skin.

In the graphic below, the arrows show where & in which direction to brush the skin to support lymphatic flow & drainage.

Enjoy!