Dry Brushing: it does a body good!

While cruising the Caribbean, I indulged in a few spa treatments.  Among which was something called "Dry Brushing."

Dry Brushing is exactly what it sounds like - it's taking a dry, natural bristle brush and gently brushing dry skin with long continuous strokes.  This practice is also known as Body Brushing and Skin Brushing.

Why do this?

It's a form of exfoliation and it feels amazing!  Your skin gets all tingly and energized.

*Here are a few more benefits:

• Skin that is healthier and smoother: removing dead skin cells and opening pores to allow them to “breath” and absorb nutrients
• Stimulated lymphatic and circulatory systems: boosting your immune system and increasing circulation to help detoxify
• Stress relief: increasing your blood flow reduces stressed areas of the body and stimulates nerve endings in your skin which in turn rejuvenates your nervous system
• Reduced cellulite: increasing blood circulation to the skin helps break down and releases toxins that cause cellulite in legs and hips

Dry Brush Strokes (Photo Courtesy: creativesoulinmotion.com)

Dry brushing is good to do about 2-3 days per week, right before a shower.  It would be an excellent practice in preparation for a sunless tanner.

"Most importantly: Always dry brush towards your heart; if you dry brush away from the heart it actually puts pressure on your veins and can cause varicose veins and ruptured vessels..." Creative Soul in Motion  You want to dry brush in three quick strokes per area.

Ladies be gentle with the breasts, using soft downward strokes up top and upward strokes on the bottom, avoiding the nipple.

Keep in mind that while Dry Brushing is a form of exfoliation, the brush you are using for your body is too harsh for your face, save that part of your body for an exfoliation scrub.

Photo Courtesy: honeyshealthyliving.com

Upon returning from my trip, I immediately purchased my own natural bristle brush from the Walmart from the bath and body section.  They only had a long handle brush, which was not what was used on me.  However, doing it yourself - I definitely recommend a long handle - makes things much easier.

While not as invigorating as having someone else do it - I'm still reaping the benefits of dry brushing and my services are much cheaper than a posh spa.

Happy Brushing!
The Hoff

Source: DryBrushing.net