What do you see when you look at the image to the right?  If you said a shower scrubber/brush you are…wrong.

I know, I know…that’s what I thought it was too but I’ve recently learned that these brushes are actually meant to be used when your skin is dry.

Dry Brushing is an ayurvedic cleansing technique that has been used for centuries and has proven benefits not only for one’s skin, but for one’s insides as well.  It is a very simple practice that only takes five minutes a day and costs nothing once a brush has been purchased.

The benefits of Dry Brushing are numerous and include…

–Helps to release fatty deposits (also known as CELLULITE) under the skin’s surface.  Can I get an AMEN here ladies?

–Helps to slough off dead skin cells and other impurities from the skin’s surface.  It also aids in the renewal of new skin cells which results in brighter, smoother skin.

–Stimulates blood circulation.

–Rejuvenates the nervous system by stimulating nerve endings in the skin.  Not only is this good for you, it also feels FabYOUlous.

–Assists in lymphatic drainage which is one way that your body releases toxins and metabolic waste.

–Helps to strengthen your immune system.

–Increases muscle tone.

There are several other benefits to Dry Brushing, but these seven ought to be enough to convince you to begin your own Dry Brushing practice.  Just like anything though, Dry Brushing is only effective if/when it is done correctly.  If you’re ready to give Dry Brushing a try (and seriously…there is NO reason not to) here are the steps you need to get started…

Dry Brushing for Health

–Choose a natural bristle brush (synthetic bristles may be too hard/sharp and may damage the skin).  A brush with a long handle will make it easier to reach your back, ankles etc.

–Start on dry skin before bathing.

–Start with the soles of your feet using swift, upward strokes.  Brush from your feet up your legs and towards your heart.  Dry Brushing movements should always be directed towards your heart except for when done on the back where you should start at the top of your back/shoulders and brush down to your lower back.  Brush strokes should be directed towards the heart because that is the natural direction in which lymphatic fluid flows through the body.

–Start with light pressure until you adjust to the sensation and then begin to apply firmer pressure as you brush.

–Start with gentle, circular motions and then use longer strokes.

–After you’ve brushed your legs, move on to the thighs, stomach, back and arms.  Use a more gentle stroke on the tender skin of the breast/chest.

–Do not brush over inflamed skin, open wounds, sunburns or skin cancer.

–Brush for 5-7 minutes or until your skin is rosy and tingles.

–When you are done brushing, it is time to rinse off in the shower to wash away any dead skin cells and impurities.

–Keep a separate Dry Brush for everyone in the family and be sure to wash it periodically.

Dry brushing is just one simple way to help you feel more fit and FabYOUlous but it is so simple that there is not reason not to give it a try–TODAY.