If you told me a month ago that I wouldn't want to shower before dry brushing, I wouldn't believe you. My shower routine is long and lovely and, I thought, perfectly perfected. Now, I have a ritual I won't go without. Here's how dry brushing transformed my skin and mood in one month.
When I recently committed to dry brushing everyday for an entire month using the Cactus Bristle Dry Brush here at Health Hut, I knew consistency would be key. While the noticeable effect on my keratosis pillars (a skin condition that causes dry, rough patches and tiny bumps) and skin texture was welcomed, I was also surprised that this gorgeous, stiff bristled brush could provide a positive impact on my mood.
WEEK 1: HELLO NEW ROUTINE, GOODBYE DEAD SKIN
As someone with textured skin, I rely on exfoliating with a cloth or scrub to reduce the appearance of bumps, redness and dead skin. This month, I noticed that the more I incorporated dry brushing into my pre-shower routine, the more I could ease up on my in-shower exfoliation.
I learned that the hot water from my shower paired with exfoliation wasn't the best method for removing my dead skin. However, the gentle and effective dry brush removed flakey skin without the inflammation and sensitivity I normally get from hot water.
WEEK 2: LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
What is lymphatic drainage and why is everyone obsessed with doing it? You may have heard of our Monastery Gua Sha facial and the benefits activating the lymph nodes near our face for reducing puffiness, but how can you do this as a full body routine?
The traditional Ayurvedic practice of dry brushing works to aid the lymphatic system in its already established process of releasing accumulated toxins. Daily simulation of my lymphatic system reduced morning swelling, tension and tightness I felt in my body.
WEEK 3: A NEW APPETITE FOR MOISTURE
Throughout the month, I noticed my after-shower moisturizing body products penetrating my skin more easily. They simply had less dead skin to penetrate. Dry brushing is the perfect primer for getting a full body glow.
WEEK 4: SURPRIZE MOOD BOOST
Starting each day with 10-15 minutes of dry brushing means 10-15 minutes of intimate time with myself. The swift passes of this small brush along my dry skin meant I had no distractions between me and my body. I found myself looking forward to starting each day knowing I would have a few moments of centred connection.
This additional self care time coupled with the increased blood flow from dry brushing gave me a boost in my mood, morning after morning. Dry brushing in the AM helps me start my day on a positive note. If you are looking for a simulating wake up call that isn't caffeine, this is it.