“Dry body brushing for its health benefits has been utilized for centuries by many cultures, including the Scandinavians and Russians,” says Leslie Johnson, Spa Director of Arizona Biltmore, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. “In this last decade, this simple wellness technique has found its way into personal-care morning routines and spa treatments around the globe,” she continues.
As we transition into the warm, sticky summer months, we have an opportunity to support the many big tasks our skin takes on, such as eliminating toxins and keeping us cool, according to Johnson. Our skin has been called our third kidney because when it is functioning effectively, our internal organs find relief.
For home use, she suggests using a natural bristle brush, which may be found in a variety of spa retail shops, health food shops and bath and body shops. You will find different styles that offer a variety of bristle types and handle lengths. Johnson recommends a soft to medium bristle brush for its comfort and a detachable handle allows ease for hard to reach areas of the back.
Here are her tips:
Before bathing, start brushing from the top of your body and work your way down, brushing toward the heart. Move to the feet and brush upwards. Many recommend using long motions on the arms and legs, with circular motions on the abdomen and back.
Some of the many benefits that daily dry brushing is recognized for:
Invigoration and Increased Circulation: Encourages the elimination of metabolic waste.
Exfoliation: Assists in the removal of dead dry skin which allows the skin to breathe.
Stimulates the Lymphatic System: Assists the Lymph system with the responsibility of eliminating cellular waste products and helping transport them to the blood for elimination.
Stress Reduction: You may find dry brushing very relaxing as a meditative process.