Detox and Dry Body Brushing

WHAT IS IT?

Dry body brushing (DBB) is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that works to stimulate and detoxify the body’s lymphatic system. Dry body brushing is beneficial in supporting the body's detox pathways as it stimulates the body to flush out fat-trapping toxins and fluids. Additionally, it improves blood circulation, breaks down pockets of cellulite and removes dead skin cells.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR HEALTH?

The lymphatic system is our body's natural detoxification system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels, tissues and organs which work to drain the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted contents. Our bodies have been designed to undertake this detox process naturally; however, in the advent of contemporary life, we are now exposed to a vast array of environmental toxins (such as air pollution, chemicals in foods and cosmetics) which our body is not equipped to deal with. This has resulted in our body struggling to flush out toxins efficiently, which leads to illness. This is often a key problem for autoimmune sufferers. DBB is one way to assist this process and help direct what needs to be flushed out of your body. It's a great tool that you can use to assist your body’s detox pathways and promote healing from autoimmune symptoms.

HOW DO I DO IT?

There are lymph nodes in your neck, underarms, elbows, groin and behind your knees- that is there we want the fluid to be directed to.

Start with your tummy and brush upwards from your pubic bone up towards your heart and underarms. Make sure you brush the sides of your torso up towards your underarms.

Once you have brushed your torso, begin brushing your arms. Start with your hands and travel towards your shoulders. Remember to direct the motion towards your underarms.

Once both arms are done, move to the legs. Starting with the feet, brushing upwards towards the knees and then up the thighs towards the groin.

Once you have completed brushing both legs, you can brush your stomach and sides once more before jumping in the shower or sauna.

Brush strokes should be sweeping and firm but not uncomfortable.

TIPS AND TRICKS:

-DBB should take 5 or so minutes.

-Dry brushing is to be done before showering, on dry skin.

-Can be done after exercise to further stimulate lymphatic flow.

-No need to add creams or oils to your skin for the brushing.

-Upon completion, shower or hit the sauna for an even greater lymphatic flush.

- Practice this 2-3 times per week and more if you are undertaking a detox regime.

-Avoid synthetic brushes and bristles. Opt for a wood or bamboo brush with natural bristles such as ​​Sisal.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE:

Dry brushing is not ideal for those with open wounds, sensitive or inflamed skin or those experiencing skin conditions such as psoriasis. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis, speak with your doctor before dry brushing.