I have been dry brushing since I was about 14 years old. My mother introduced me to it as she used it as a way to stay healthy and feel good for the long summer weekend days on the Australian beaches. We would dry brush and drench ourselves in coconut oil and head to the ocean. So much of my alternative upbringing has prepared me for where I am today, and much of it was Ayurvedic and we were not even aware! We were just living in harmony with the elements. I am grateful for my hippy parents – they taught me to listen to nature!

THE PRACTICE OF DRY BRUSHING

Your skin, the largest organ in the human body, is an organ of elimination. One-third of your body’s toxins are excreted through the skin, and dry brushing helps to unclog pores and eliminate toxins that become trapped in the skin.

THE BENEFITS

• Exfoliation of skin
• Stimulates the lymphatic system for optimal function
• Helps diminish cellulite appearance
• Invigorates and wakes up the body
• Unclogs pores for optimal nutrient uptake and elimination

THE HOW

1. Purchase a natural (not synthetic) bristle brush with a long handle so can reach all areas of your body.

2. Get naked and begin brushing by starting at your feet and moving in long sweeping motions toward your heart. The rule here is to always brush toward your heart.

4. Brush several times in each area, overlapping as you go. Again, in long sweeping motions towards the heart. When brushing the belly, follow the digestive tract direction to aid in elimination.

5. Take care and brush gently over more sensitive areas, like chest and face. The more you dry brush, the more your skin will become less sensitive. The more you will love this practice.

6. Once you’ve brushed your entire body, do your Abhyanga massage and let the benefits of the oil restore and renew. Sit as long as you can before showering. When you do shower, do so with warm water and only use a natural soap on personal hygiene areas. Towel dry and enjoy your cleansed and cared for body. Learn more about what type of oil is best for your Dosha here.

7. Although you can dry brush in the morning or night, this is an invigorating practice, so the morning is usually a better choice as it awakens the body and mind. Dry brushing is an excellent practice for stimulating Kapha types and imbalances.