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skin brushing

Benefits Of Skin Brushing

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We brush our hair, we brush our teeth, but what about our skin?  References to this age-old practice can be found in Ayurvedic, Scandinavian, and Native American traditions. Skin brushing is very invigorating and only should be done in the morning as brushing before bedtime can make it more difficult to get to sleep.  Shower or bathe after skin brushing to clear away skin cells or other material loosened by the procedure. Brushing should never be done with wet skin as this can cause stretching. Do not brush skin that has a rash or other damage including varicose veins

Here are some reasons to dry-brush your skin in the morning

  • Stimulates the lymphatic system and moves fluid 
  • Cleansing your skin removes dead cells
  • Can improve cellulite by breaking up fat deposits under the skin
  • Stimulates the liver when the lymph system is stimulated
  • Increases circulation and helps to open up your pores 

How to dry-brush your skin the right way 

  1. Start with the feet, brush up each leg several times moving toward the heart 
  2. Brush the abdominal area in a circular motion. 
  3. Brush from the chin down the neck and chest 
  4. Do not brush the nipples as they are too sensitive 
  5. Finish by brushing the hands and up the arms 
Shower or bathe after skin brushing to clear away skin cells or other material loosened by the procedure. Brushing should never be done with wet skin as this can cause stretching. Do not brush skin that has a rash or other damage including varicose veins. 

Hydrotherapy treatment after dry-brushing

Many people like to incorporate hydrotherapy after skin brushing. Sometimes called contrast showering, this is the practice of alternating hot and cold water to stimulate circulation. 
  1. Start by showering, and washing, at a comfortable temperature 
  2. Slowly increase the temperature to a higher temperature (hot but not scalding) and rinse your entire body, including your scalp
  3. Stay in this hot water for 30 seconds
  4. Reduce the temperature to the coldest temperature you can stand, again rinsing your entire body, including your scalp
  5. Stay in this cold water for 30 seconds
  6. Repeat the hot/cold cycle of water 3-5 times 
Hydrotherapy should not be used if you have a heart condition, diabetes, hypertension, hypotension, Raynaud's, or are pregnant unless you first consult your doctor to ensure this is a safe practice.  When purchasing a skin brush it is important that each person have their own. Always use a dry soft brush, preferably with natural bristles and a long handle.