When it comes to health and well-being, I think we're all willing to try unconventional solutions at times.
After all, most of us would never fly in the face of a doctor's recommendation, but when it comes to minor lifestyle complaints, it can be interesting and informative to try out-of-the-box solutions.
Take, for example, corns and calluses. If nothing else worked, wouldn't you be tempted to try the slightly out there "bread cure" before opting for more invasive treatment?
And let's not forget, plenty of people derive comfort and improved health from home remedies and less traditional treatments every single day.
There's a lot to be said for trying new things, and at the moment, our very favorite home remedy is also enjoying a serious vogue among celebrities and lifestyle gurus alike.
It's called dry brushing, and it's quick, easy, painless, and it has fascinating effects on whole-body health.
Scroll through below to learn more!
Thumbnail Photo: Robin's Key
Dry Brushing 101
So what exactly is dry brushing anyway?
Well, this craze that has models and celebs worldwide in a frenzy is actually pretty self-explanatory.
You simply take a stiff, natural-bristled brush — not a hair brush, but more like a large nail brush — and brush your skin with it.
Usually, this ritual takes place before you shower, and brushstrokes move inward from the edges of your body, toward your heart, according to WellnessMama.
And what does this action do to your body? Read on to find out!
Dry Brushing Benefit #1: Reduces Inflammation
The most frequently cited benefit of dry brushing is its effect on the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system's primary duty in the body is to create immune responses to defend your body from illness and microscopic attackers.
However, the lymphatic system is easily triggered, and starts producing extra white blood cells at the slightest sign of attack; if you're not actually sick, this can lead to inflammation.
Dry brushing can help stimulate the lymph system to keep moving, and to discard excess white blood cells instead of building them up, according to Mercola.
Dry Brushing Benefit #2: Exfoliates Skin
One of the more obvious benefits of dry brushing is the effect it has on your skin.
We all know that dead skin cells can build up and create unsightly dry patches, but we may not be exfoliating in quite the right way.
If you're exfoliating with a loofah in the shower, the hot water could be robbing your skin of precious moisture and making the problem worse over time, says the Cleveland Clinic.
Dry brushing 20 minutes before you shower exfoliates and allows the skin to seal in moisture in the shower.
Dry Brushing Benefit #3: Improves Circulation
If you pinch your arm, the skin will turn red almost immediately as blood rushes to the surface.
The side effects of dry brushing are similar; the brushing sensation all over your body will bring blood to the surface and stimulate blood flow, according to Time.
This has two major benefits: the increased blood flow to your skin will improve your skin's health and lead to that much-vaunted "glow," while stimulating blood flow on the surface will also kick-start improved circulation throughout the body.
Dry Brushing Benefit #4: Reduces Cellulite
Okay, we'll be the first to admit that the jury is still out on this one, but it can't hurt to try, right?
Some folks, including Mercola, claim that dry brushing cellulite can break up the hardened fatty deposits underneath the skin that give thighs and bums everywhere a slightly dimpled look.
The idea is that the softened fat is more likely to blend in evenly, and might be easier for the body to discard.
Scientific studies so far have not supported this theory but, what can we say, we're big believers in the placebo effect!
Dry Brushing Benefit #5: Soothes Anxiety
You know how going to the hairdresser nearly puts you to sleep every single time? It's because the mild, rhythmic brushing and pulling sensations are extremely soothing.
Fortunately, you don't have to shell out for a cut-and-color every time you want to destress.
Dry brushing provides a similar rhythmic, feel-good ritual, according to Dr. Axe.
For some people, the sensations themselves might be soothing, while others are relaxed by the process of indulging in self-care — either way, it helps people unwind!
Dry Brushing Benefit #6: Enhances Digestion
Oh, digestion. When it's not working right, there's no end to the trouble it can cause.
Gas, bloating, and irregular bowel movements are issues that we'd all like to avoid, and our new friend the dry brush may just be able to help.
The idea is that dry brushing the skin opens up the pores in our bodies, which helps the body eliminate toxins, and more effectively absorb nutrients, according to Natural Health Techniques.
It's also likely that the massage-like motion on the abdomen helps to stimulate reactions in sluggish digestive organs.
Dry Brushing Benefit: #7: Boosts Energy
It's not entirely clear why, but devotees of the dry brush report that they're left with boundless energy to get out and live life to the fullest.
It's probably a combination of factors: poor lymph movement and digestion can make you feel slow and tired, while improved circulation literally gets the blood pumping.
WellnessMama even reports that the rush of energy after dry brushing is immediate and acts almost like a cup of coffee, making it a great part of a morning routine.
What do you think of the craze for dry brushing? Will you give this wellness trend a shot?
Let us know in the comments, and be sure to SHARE this fascinating health technique with friends who love trying out alternative remedies!
