Your skin is your largest organ. In addition to holding us all together, the skin is responsible for a great deal of detoxification. Skin cells are constantly being renewed; it takes approximately 2 weeks to a month for new skin cells to reach the outer layer of our body, called the epidermis. The skin cells we can see are actually dead and will eventually flake off.
We can assist and speed up this process through dry brushing. By removing the dead skin cells we promote healthy skin renewal and we open the pores for more efficient removal of toxins.
Dry brushing is very stimulating. It is like a combination of a good back scratch and a massage. The action of dry brushing invigorates the whole body and is a much better pick-me-up in the morning than a coffee. It encourages blood circulation and movement of the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system moves extracellular material and toxins up and out of the body via the heart. Because it moves against gravity the lymphatic system can use all the help it can get. Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system which in turn, promotes the health of our immune system.
Dry brushing has also been known to tighten the skin, reduce vericose veins, reduce cellulite and prevent premature aging.
Dry Brushing Technique
You can purchase a dry skin brush at any health food store. You can also use a dry back brush from the shower or even a hard terry cloth towel (let it air dry so it remains stiff).
Start at your feet and brush the skin in small circles in the direction of the heart. Brushing away from the heart puts extra pressure on the blood vessels and veins. Some areas will allow for more pressure, others will require you to lighten up.
Brush your entire body except for the face and any areas that are wounded or healing. It should take anywhere from 2 to 5 minutes.
Jump in the shower and rinse away all the dead skin. Finish your shower by alternating between warm and cold water two or three times. This will also stimulate your circulation system.
Remember to feed your skin with foods such as flax seed oil, nuts and seeds, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and 8 - 10 glasses of water per day.
Try dry brushing for a month, it will become part of your daily routine and improve the health of your skin.
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