Sometimes when we hear the word “detoxification,” harsh and complicated regimens come to mind, but this is not the case with dry skin brushing! Dry skin brushing is a non-invasive technique that only requires a few minutes of your time and brush, which you can easily find at a natural health store.

Dry skin brushing is one of the most relaxing detoxification methods that I’ve tried. You take a brush with coarse bristles (preferably natural, not synthetic) and brush towards the heart using quick strokes. I usually start with my lower legs, then thighs, lower arms, upper arms, abdomen, and back. The strokes going toward the heart follow the normal lymphatic flow, so it helps bring lymphatic fluid back to the heart, assisting with detoxification. A secondary benefit to dry skin brushing is exfoliation of dead skin cells, which leaves you with softer and more radiant skin.

There are two times of day particularly useful for dry skin brushing: just before showering, and at night before going to bed. My personal preference is the latter, and I do so several times weekly. Although I haven’t heard of this being a documented side effect, I’ve noticed that dry brushing before bed helps me fall asleep more quickly because it provides a relaxing sensation that calms my anxious mind.