You’ve probably seen the long handled brushes or the oval brushes with the braided string. What are they? What are you supposed to do with them?
Dry brushing, also known as body brushing, is a wellness body treatment you can do yourself! First you want to get a soft, natural bristled wooden brush that fits nicely in your palm or perhaps one on a long, removable stick for you to to reach your back easier.
It’s pretty fool proof, just remember, don’t wet it! Body brushing is meant to be done dry, before your shower each morning. What you’re trying to do is gently exfoliate your skin and stimulate your lymphatic system.
You’ll start at your toes, moving upward toward your heart, with long strokes and light to medium pressure. You shouldn’t be pressing hard enough for your skin to get red, but it may become a little flushed. You’ll brush the front and back of your body, always moving in an upward direction. When you get to your belly, you’ll brush in an upside down pyramid shape to follow the way your colon naturally detoxifies. Continue moving upward, brushing your back up and toward the lymph nodes in your neck. Be mindful of sensitive areas. For your arms, you’ll start at your fingers and move toward your shoulders. Make sure to do your armpits, as there are lots of lymph nodes there. You’ll end with your neck. The whole process will go quickly, it usually takes me 3 minutes or so. You should feel invigorated after and with consistent brushing, your skin will glow. It’s best to do daily, but strive to do it at least 5 times a week. That’s all! This tradition has been in wide use for over 5,000 years. I hope you find you love it, too. As always, if you have any questions at all or need more clarity on the process, please let me know.
One important caution, if you struggle with skin issues like psoriasis or are under a doctors care, body brushing may not be for you. Make sure to discuss it with your physician before starting.
*Note: This process is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Do not use if allergic to any ingredients. I recommend you consult your healthcare provider prior to use if you are pregnant or nursing, taking any medications or if you have a medical condition. If irritation occurs discontinue use.
twig leaf flower is an organic vegan gluten free aromatherapy and herbal tea collection lovingly handmade in Dallas, PA by master herbalist and clinical aromatherapist Rebecca Nicely.