When I was first introduced to the concept of “Dry Brushing”, I thought it sounded nothing short of torture. Dry Brushing is a technique that has been around for centuries but recently has been receiving more attention because of its claimed benefits. The Dry Brush Detox involves using a natural bristle brush to massage your dry skin before you take a bath or shower. You start with your feet and ankles (yes that includes the soles of your feet), and then using long upward strokes, brush your way up your body. It is important to only dry brush skin and always in movements toward your heart. I don’t dry brush my face because my Clarisonic does the job. If you want to though, make sure you get a softer bristle brush specifically for your face. I got my Dry Brush (with a long handle) at Whole Foods.
The Benefits:
The Benefits of Dry Brushing goes beyond the obvious skin benefits by naturally detoxing and purifying the body. There are also claims that it aids the kidneys and liver, increases lymphatic flow, improves the functioning of the nervous system, and stimulates the sweat glands. According to Mothernature.com, dry brush massages can help reduce the appearance of cellulite. BONUS!
Hippy Magic:
Even though Dry Brushing sounded like time consuming hippy nonsense, for some reason, I had to try it. Best decision ever! Standing in my empty bathtub, with my exfoliating device in hand, I commenced. Being the over-dramatic person that I am, I cringed at first, expecting my skin to be in pain from the abrasive surface. I was pleasantly surprised though and by the time I completed my first Dry Brush massage, which took me way less time than expected, I was hooked. As I washed off the exfoliated cells in the shower, I enjoyed the tingly sensation on my skin and felt energized. The only thing I wasn’t prepared for was how my skin became red and felt really dry. I have pretty sensitive skin, so I added an extra step to what has become my dry brushing regiment.
The Results:
To soothe the irritated feeling, I grabbed one of my many jars filled with coconut oil and massaged my skin with it. The relief was instant from the taunt, dry tingles. My skin also appeared to have a nice glow as a result of the instant hydration miracle. I was so impressed with the results from my dry brushing that I started making it part of my morning routine 2-3 times a week. I love the way it makes my skin look bright and how the coconut oil is a perfect moisturizer. Plus I smell yummy for the rest of the day (or until I workout). I recommend trying it, just don’t forget to moisturize! I recommend using coconut oil because it is all natural and I’m obsessed with the smell. Coconut oil also works great as a hair mask, leaving my strands silky smooth. My favorite is Ojio’s Raw Organic Coconut Oil. Just be sure to wash out all the extra oils so your hair looks luxurious and not greasy when it dries.
See the article on myojio.com
Adventure Happy 