As we sleep, our skin eliminates lots of toxins, waste products, sweat and oil. It also forms minute crystals that clog our pores. Brushing the skin helps unplug the pores, increases its ability to absorb nutrients, boosts circulation to the skin cells resulting in a better metabolic cellular exchange, and polishes it as well.
Healthy skin needs to 'breathe', so rid it regularly of dry skin cells and the body will react by producing new skin cells more rapidly. Your skin will immediately feel silkier and in the long term will look healthier, replacing that dry, pasty appearance.
The best way to dry brush your skin for optimal benefits is to start off with a natural bristle brush or loofa - my favourite is a long handled one as it's much easier to brush your back. It's also good if the head of the brush is removable to brush your feet better. Synthetic brushes or exfoliation cloths are harsh and create minute scratches on the surface that may result in drier, irritated skin. People with eczema, acne or other skin problems should consult with a health practitioner first.
Never 'scrub' your skin using hard pressure. Use firm but gentle pressure. Your skin should feel alive and tingly!
Always work in the direction of the heart. Start with the right foot, working in a circular motion first on the outside upwards then the inside towards the groin.
Repeat on the left also. Brush from hands up along the arms towards the collarbone - always work towards the supraclavicular lymph nodes that are located near the collarbone.
For the stomach area, scrub in a clockwise, using light circular movements from the navel outwards. For the back, start at the lower back towards your heart with long strokes or circular movements, if this is difficult.
All of the above will only add five minutes more to your morning routine.
Rinse off under a warm shower and there is no need to use soap or shower gel on the brushed areas of the body as they are now impeccably clean.
