The Wonders of Dry Skin Brushing

One of my all-time favorite self-care techniques is dry skin brushing. It’s super simple to do, the benefits are myriad, and it feels great. As we move out of summer, this is a great time to give your skin some extra TLC. 

Why dry skin brush?

Your skin is your largest detoxification organ. Along with your liver, your skin is an important avenue for releasing toxins from your body. By brushing it daily or several times a week, you are doing a mini-detox. 

Brushing your skin stimulates oil secretions, making your skin softer and more supple over time. Lots of my patients report needing less or no body lotion after a few months of dry skin brushing. 

Additionally, in Chinese Medicine, your skin is controlled by the Lung System; your Lungs produce your "Defensive Qi”. By stimulating the skin, you are strengthening your immune system.

Not to mention enhancing your blood circulation, and leaving you feeling energized. 

All this in less than two minutes a day. Wow. 

You need a soft to medium natural bristle bath brush, available at your local health food store or online. We also have them for sale at Energy Matters. 

As the name suggests, this practice is done on dry - not wet - skin, so it is easiest to do before showering or bathing, or any other time you are undressed ie before getting dressed in the morning or before bed. 

• Starting with your legs, brush upwards towards your heart, with several strokes on the front, sides, and back of each leg.  Brush vigorously without irritating your skin
• Repeat on your arms, brushing towards your heart.
• Then your torso, front and back. 

Done!

I suggest doing this daily for a few weeks, and then several times a week for maintenance.

New to dry skin brushing? Let me know how it works for you.

Experienced dry skin brusher? I’d love to hear what you’ve experienced. 

Simple is powerful when it comes to healthcare practices,
Kirstin Lindquist  
Owner, Licensed Acupuncturist