I don’t know about you but my skin took a beating with the recent frigid temperatures.  (If you live in Southern California, we don’t really want to hear about how chilly it felt when the temperatures dipped into the 50′s.)  It’s not helpful that my eco-sin happens to be long, hot showers.  Ideally in the winter, showers should be limited to 4 or 5 minutes in lukewarm water.  Let me tell you when it is 3 below that ain’t happenin’.  One of my favorite rituals to improve skin texture is dry brushing.  Totally revitalizes me and when followed with a shower and yummy moisturizer, leaves your skin feeling like a baby’s bum.

Dry brushing is the practice of using a natural bristled brush or silk gloves to exfoliate your skin, improve circulation and stimulate your lymphatic and nervous systems. It’s a great ritual to incorporate in the morning before the shower. Not only does it have amazing health benefits, it is a great way to connect with yourself and your intention for wellness.

Dry brushing exfoliates and helps slough off dead skin cells allowing new smoother skin cells to be exposed. This action also stimulates the circulatory system which supports skin renewal, detoxification and elimination. I think the lymphatic system is one of the most important (and neglected!) systems of the body. Basically, it filters and flushes out the funk. Stimulating the lymphatic system with dry brushing helps to move more white blood cells (strengthening the immune system, too) throughout the body and dislodge toxins from fatty tissue. This allows the lymph fluid to flow properly.  You should consult your health care provider before dry brushing if you have cancer, lymphatic or circulatory conditions.

You can find a brush or gloves at a natural food store or spa. Start at your feet and use circular motions or short strokes with a reasonable amount of firmness. You can use longer strokes on your grandaddy long legs but brush in circles around joints and areas with concentrated lymph nodes. Also be sure to brush in circles and use a little more vigor to increase circulation and reduce cellulite on stomach, thighs and bum. Personally, I don’t brush the delicate skin on my face but prefer an exfoliating cleanser and facial massage. End your practice with a few circles at your heart with love and gratitude for your health.

What’s your morning feelgood ritual?