Dry Skin Brushing: What It Is And How It Works To Boost Your Lymphatic System

Every day you brush your teeth - maybe even your hair. But have you thought about brushing your skin? It may sound odd, but dry skin brushing is an easy way to boost your lymphatic system and clear out toxins. And it just feels good! Many people do not know about the lymphatic system and the important role it plays in total body health. Simple exercise gets the lymphatic system moving, but another good way to take care of yourself is through dry skin brushing. The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it is essential to removing toxins from the body. It sheds dead cells continuously, and the sweat glands flush out any excess toxins or minerals that have built up over time (Health). Thus, keeping the skin as healthy as possible is important to overall health.

The following can cause the lymphatic system to work poorly:

• Fatigue
• Stress
• Infection
• Lack of physical activity
• Dehydration

(Diagnose Me) Furthermore, according to Women's Health Network, the symptoms of a sluggish or congested lymphatic system are extremely diverse.

Some symptoms include:

• Worsened allergies and food sensitivities
• Frequent cold and flu infections
• Joint pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Menstrual cramps
• Arthritis
• Breast tenderness
• GI issues
• Muscle cramping
• Depression
• Skin breakouts

As you can see, the symptoms are quite diverse. In fact, any one of these symptoms could mean one’s lymphatic system is not working as it should be.

The Benefits of Dry Skin Brushing

So what to do? Dry skin brushing is an easy habit that offers many benefits. For example, some advantages of dry skin brushing include the elimination of metabolic wastes, improved circulation, reduced bloating, eased muscle tension, and exfoliation of the skin. (Green Smoothie Girl) Dry skin brushing is also relatively easy to do and can be performed before any shower or bath. First thing in the morning is another good time to dry skin brush. The practice is considered very enjoyable and relaxing by some.

How to Dry Brush the Skin

The following video demonstrates how to dry brush the skin. Take a look!

https://youtu.be/7ANy_2xWLAo

Some valuable tips from the video:

• Start from the extremities and work toward the heart.
• Start low and work the brush in an upward motion.
• Brush at a pressure that feels comfortable. (Do not brush to the point that the skin is raw.)
• Go at a pace that feels comfortable.
• Pay particular attention to the armpits. They are key to removing toxins.

Dry skin brushing not for you? Don't worry - there are other ways to unclog your lymphatic system and get your lymph moving again.