{Other Detox 101 Posts}
Why Detox
Detox FAQs
Full Body Detox: Juice Fasting Method
Detox: Staying Hydrated
Heavy Metal Detox: Bentonite Clay
Liver Detox: Herbal Cleansing Method
Colon Detox: Best Methods

{Guest Post by Jenna at Wholesome Bits}

Every year around spring, most people feel the urge to unwrap themselves from winter’s cold and start a process of cleaning their homes from the cobwebs and dust it has gathered known as spring cleaning. Clearing our spaces from the clutter and debris feels good and welcoming. It is like a rite of passage from winter to spring.

But have you ever considered the importance of regularly clearing your skin of the debris it collects on a daily basis? It is important the skin functions well because the body depends on it to maintain proper temperature, protect its internal organs, eliminate cellular waste and produce vitamin D.

The skin is often referred to as the “the third kidney” because of it’s importance in the body’s process of detoxification. About 1/3 of the body’s impurities are excreted through the skin which equals about a pound of waste a day. If the skin’s pores are clogged from poor hygiene, dry skin build up, or saturated with perfumes and lotions, it will not perform this job of elimination properly.

Just below the skin lays the lymphatic system. A vast and intricate network of vessels that run all around the body. It works hard to clear the body of waste build-up from the fluid that surrounds cells. Keeping the lymphatic system in top shape is an important aspect in maintaining a healthy life.

One way to improve both the function of the skin and the lymphatic system is a detoxification process known as dry brushing. Dr. Denice Moffat, a naturopath who specializes in alternative medicine and holistic healing techniques, says dry skin brushing helps clear toxins from the lymphatic system. It is also a key to helping the body purify itself naturally.

{why should I dry brush?}

• stimulates circulation and function of the lymphatic system
• removes dead skin cells and opens pores
• increases oxygen to the body’s cells
• helps to move toxins out of the body
• irritates nerve endings which triggers an immune response
• has been known to diminish the appearance of cellulite
• improves the skin’s appearance

{what is the method to dry brushing?}

All you need is a natural fiber brush (shown above) with a long handle. These can be purchased at health food stores for around $8.00 and should last around 3 months.

Although it may seem a little strange at first, the best way to dry brush your skin is before you shower and in the nude while your skin is dry. The main method of dry brushing is to move toward your heart starting from the furthest points. Starting with the soles of your feet, begin brushing with long upward strokes. Continue upward to the ankles, legs, knees and thighs. As you make your way to the hips and abdomen, use circular movements.

Next, make long strokes from the wrists, arms and elbows to the shoulders. As you dry brush the armpit area, work in circular motions. End by again using short, circular motions on the upper chest area. The overall process should only take about 5 minutes. Please avoid dry brushing the face and breasts.

If you’re hesitant or not use to dry brushing, don’t go too hard your first few times, your skin may need to get use to it first. You can use a washcloth until you want to advance to a dry brush. Make sure to check your skin’s color, it should be pink not bright red. Avoid sensitive areas or anywhere the skin is broken. Soon you will begin to feel “alive” and not only will your skin will glow, but your body will have less waste to deal with and give you renewed energy to thank you!

So take this rite of passage of awakening and energizing your body by dry brushing.

 

Happy Brushing!

 

About the Author:

Jenna is a happy wife to Brian and a full-time mom to four bright boys. She is a follower of Christ, a nurse by trade, an aspiring blogger, foodie and lover of all things healthy.

Join her at Wholesome Bits and connect with her on Facebook.

 

Thankful to share at: Weekend Whatever, Natural Living, WLWW, Wildcrafting Wednesday… {see link-up list}