Your skin is the largest organ in your body and provides a fabulous way to easily and naturally make a positive impact on your health. Your lymphatic system, your blood circulation and your digestion can all be helped by a simple practice, known as "dry brushing". Using a simple method, which is described later on, you can make a difference that will serve you well. So, what is 'dry brushing' and why does it work?
In my early teens, I was totally unaware of how my body worked. School biology lessons had me well versed in the mating habits of hens and frogs but I hadn't a clue how my system really worked, beyond a few basics.
For instance, I knew that when I felt unwell, the 'glands' in my neck would swell. I had no idea that my lymph system was protecting me from harmful bacteria and viruses.
I thought of 'lymph' as a little pool of goo, residing somewhere in my neck and that was it. Years later I began to study as a Yoga teacher and as part of that study, I had to learn all about the human physical systems. What an eye-opener! Now I know that the lymphatic system's primary function is IMMUNITY and it's easy to help it to function well so I take good care of it by 'dry brushing'. And this is for the guys as well as the girls!
DID YOU KNOW . . .
The lymphatic system is an extensive system, rather like tubing, that goes practically every place in the body?
That the system is filled with a clear substance called 'lymph' that produces white (disease fighting) blood cells?
The lymph system also helps to shift fluids away from tissues and absorb fat and move it to the circulatory system?
That the skin is the largest organ of elimination in the body?
That it is responsible for one quarter of the daily detoxification of the whole body?
It is important to remember however, that the lymph system is not pressurized by a muscle-pump (such as the way that blood is pumped by your heart) so the technique I recommend - 'dry brushing' - is a very good way to help it to flow and cleanse itself.
In addition, you will: -
You will find that:
Your muscles and skin become toned. Layers of dead skin are removed. Your skin becomes more taught. Your blood circulation is enhanced. Help digestion. Stimulates hormone and oil-production. Improve nervous system function.
JUST how many great benefits is that? And none of them depend on anything more than a soft bristle brush and a few minutes before you shower. No chemicals: no false promises - just a little time and motivation.
Treat yourself to a natural bristle,brush that isn't harsh on your skin and has a long handle. Alternatively, you can use a loofah or a rough towel.
METHOD:
Remove all clothing, and brush either from your feet upwards towards your heart, or from your head down. The important thing is to always brush towards your heart area (away from the heart puts extra pressure on veins and valves) and to do your whole body.
Use long, sweeping movements. Use a little more pressure on hard skin areas (such as the soles of your feet) and less pressure on delicate places (such as belly and breasts).
When you do your arms, lift each hand as far into the air as it will comfortably go and work down from the tips of the fingers to your arm pit.
Make sure you avoid brushing over any areas of your skin that are sensitive; cuts, bruises, infections, bites or rashes.
Shower as usual, and if you can, finish off with a cold cycle for a few seconds to invigorate the skin and bring more blood to the surface. After you have dried your skin, massage in a natural plant oil, such as: almond: olive: apricot or coconut.
After three or four weeks, you will notice a change in the quality of your skin tone and over time, other benefits will accrue. This new habit may take a few days to practice. Be patient and let it become part of your regular personal routine because the benefits are well worth it.
Author Resource:
thewellnessaudioshop.co.ukDeborah de Vries helps people to develop and master critical life skills so that they can create and lead wonderful lives. She is the UK's Number One provider of guided imagery meditations and provides audio and coaching programs that support her clients' in an authentic and enjoyable way. Find out more at: http://thewellnessaudioshop.co.uk
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