More than anything, my “Wellness Wednesday” posts are serving as inspiration for me to try many healthful practices that I have been curious to learn more about. Such as dry brushing. I’ve read some about it…and then read much more when preparing this post. And now I’m eager to begin!
The benefits of dry brushing are numerous and have a far greater impact on your health beyond the healthy glow gained by regular exfoliation. First and foremost, dry brushing supports a healthy lymphatic system by stimulating lymph flow within the body (as many lymph nodes run just below the surface of the skin). Lymphatic drainage is the body’s natural way of detoxifying. Also, regular dry brushing is said to increase muscle tone and reduce the appearance of cellulite by eliminating waste that can sit in fat cells and break down collagen. Finally, dry brushing is also supposed to increase energy and blood flow throughout the body. For this reason, it is suggested to dry brush in the mornings (rather than before bed) – my plan is to brush for 5 mins in the morning prior to getting in the shower.
photo & resources: Collective Skin Care, Wellness Mama & Because I’m Addicted
The key is to use a natural fiber brush (and remember not to brush too hard). This brush is currently in my shopping cart.
As discussed in my previous WW post, drinking more water continues to be a personal wellness goal. Some days it happens, others…not so much. However, I’m so much more motivated when I have a chic water bottle to tote. My all-time favorite is the bkr glass and silicone bottle. In addition to being BPA-free, it is also super cute (which always seems to motivate me)! While perhaps not the best for a gut-busting workout when you have seconds to hydrate, this bottle fits easily in my purse and its design is inspirational when sitting on my desk (reminding me with its friendly little heart to drink more water). I have the smaller 8 oz size, but the new 16 oz version is on my wish-list…should someone special be reading, this could make an excellent Valentine’s gift!
I hope that “Wellness Wednesday” is inspiring some new healthy habits for you too. I sure do enjoy keeping you posted and I’m always eager for feedback (words of encouragement don’t hurt either!) Thanks for keeping up with me. ~Jenn
[…] my day with a dry brush prior to getting in the shower. After brushing (see the technique in my previous post), I spray my body with a moisturizing oil and then soap up in the shower. The oil hydrates my […]