WHY ADD BODY BRUSHING TO YOUR GENTLENESS ROUTINE?
You brush your hair, why not your skin? Dry body brushing has been around for centuries, but it recently made a big comeback on TikTok (don't they always?). You may have tried it before or you're just hearing about it for the first time. Either way, we've got you covered! Let's get down to the basics and how body brushing can give your skin that enviable glow.
What is dry body brushing?
Many cultures, from the Egyptians to the Greeks and Chinese, have used this technique. It involved taking a brush and gently massaging to exfoliate the skin. In China , people used dried fibers from a gourd. In Greece, they used a bronze instrument and oil. Today, it's a good idea to use a brush made with natural fiber bristles to remove dead skin cells. Afterward, use your usual body products , which will work more effectively without all those toxins getting in the way.
The benefits
There's a reason people have been doing this for centuries. When done correctly, your skin reaps abundant benefits. Plus, aside from the cost of buying a brush, it's economical. These are the benefits you might see.
Exfoliation : Your skin goes through a lot every day, so it's no surprise that it's covered in dead skin cells, which can make your skin feel thick and rough. Body brushing can help remove that top layer and make your skin look smoother.
Open pores : As you exfoliate, you also open your pores. This helps your skin absorb the moisturizers you apply later.
Detoxification : Using this technique stimulates the lymphatic system, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system. It is also related to the body's fluid balance and digestive system.
Stronger immune system: Related to detoxification, the stimulation of brushing helps your body detoxify its system and supports a strong immune system. The pressure from brushing your skin helps the lymphatic system move white blood cells and waste throughout the body.
Cellulite Improvement : Supported by scientific research , the use of specific lymphatic system stimulation techniques can also help reduce cellulite.
Relaxation: We love to talk about the benefits of self-care, and this is no exception. Brushing your body in gentle, circular motions helps stimulate the vagus nerve, the longest nerve in the body that branches out to many different organs. This nerve also helps you calm and relax.
Extra energy: When you wake up, try starting your day with a dry brushing session. This relaxing self-care routine can boost your circulation and give you energy for the day.
The technique
Now that you know the benefits, let's look at the proper technique. Experts recommend doing this before bathing or showering to remove pesky dead skin cells. But if you have skin wounds, inflammation, eczema, or dermatitis, avoid those areas of your body. Remember to apply gentle pressure on thin skin, like your underarms, and firm pressure on thick skin, like your heels. So grab your brush made with firm, natural bristles (like wool, raw silk, or cotton) and make that skin look radiant.
- Start at the feet and work your way up to the heart. Use circular motions when working on the ankles and knees.
- Use long strokes upwards through the legs, always moving up towards the heart.
- Then, move on to your stomach, lower back, buttocks, and hip joint while brushing clockwise.
- Move from your hands to your shoulders in short, circular motions. When you're at your wrists and elbows, use small, circular motions.
- On the neck and shoulders, use short strokes.
- When you are in the chest area, use circular movements.
- If you dry brush your face, switch to a different brush with softer bristles and focus on all areas of your face, including your ears, using small circular motions. Start from the center of your face and work outwards.
- Once you're done, take a shower or bath. Then apply your favorite moisturizer .
This technique should only take up to seven minutes. Be sure not to brush too hard, as this could irritate your skin. Also, clean your dry brush with warm, soapy water, rinse it, and let it dry when you're done. If you're new to this technique, only do it once or twice a week.
Forget the day's troubles and watch your skin glow after using this centuries-old technique for radiant skin.
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