Gentle Dry Brushing To Better Move Your Lymph
The Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is a vital part of the immune system. It comprises a network of vessels and organs that help filter fluids and remove waste from the body. Lymph nodes are an essential part of this system, and are located throughout the body in areas where the lymphatic vessels converge. There are approximately 600-700 lymph nodes in the human body, which play a vital role in protecting us from infection. Lymph nodes contain white blood cells known as lymphocytes, which help fight off bacteria and viruses. When we are infected with a pathogen, our lymph nodes can become swollen and painful as they work to rid our bodies of the invader. Keeping your lymph moving is critical to your health.
A Shout Out To Men
It seems to me that men disregard moving their lymph, much more than women do, and in particular, are not as apt to dry brush. I just wanted to mention that it is just as important for you guys to get your lymph moving and clear those lymph nodes, as it is for women. When lymph is stagnant men are just as likely to develop inflammation and disease from the toxin build-up, as women are! It also helps with circulation and will energize you. So please grab your brushes and begin! You can get them in my store or any place that sells dry brushes.
Lymph Movement
The movement of lymph depends on several factors, including the contraction of smooth muscle in the walls of lymph vessels, the presence of valves within the vessels, and gravity. The smooth muscle contractions help to keep the lymph flowing in one direction, while the valves prevent it from flowing backward. Gravity also plays a role in lymph movement, as it helps to pull the fluid downward. The movement of surrounding tissues can also help push the lymph along. Deep breathing can assist lymph movement by creating negative pressure within the thoracic cavity, which helps draw fluid into the chest and pushes it upwards towards the neck. These factors work together to ensure that lymph flows through the body and is filtered by the lymph nodes.
How to Move the Lymph
One of the best ways to get the lymph moving is to exercise regularly. Rebounding, walking, jogging, swimming, and biking are all great activities that can help to increase lymphatic flow. Another way to promote lymphatic drainage is to dry brush your skin. This can be done with a natural bristle brush or a loofah sponge. Start with light pressure and avoid any sensitive or injured areas. Deep breathing exercises can help get the lymph moving as they help massage the internal organs and encourage muscular contractions. Finally, sitting in a sauna or taking a steam bath can also be beneficial as the heat helps to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation.
Lymphatic Dry Brushing
Lymphatic dry brushing is a technique used to stimulate the lymphatic system and promote drainage. The practice involves using a dry brush to massage the skin in a specific pattern. Dry brushing helps to break up congestion and stimulate the lymph nodes, which encourages the movement of lymph fluid. Lymphatic dry brushing can also help improve circulation and reduce inflammation.
Before You Begin Dry Brushing
Before you begin dry brushing, it is best to drink 12-16 fl. oz. of filtered water. Lymph is primarily water, and dehydration can cause lymph congestion and constipation. Drinking water begins the process of moving lymph through your system.
How to Pick out a Good Dry Brush
It is essential to use a firm but not too stiff, natural-bristle brush on dry skin. Synthetic bristles often contain chemicals. Second, the brush should be the right size for your body. A smaller brush is better for delicate areas like the face, while a larger brush can cover more ground on the arms and legs. Choose a brush with a comfortable handle that will not slip out of your hand during use. A longer handle will help you reach those harder-to-reach places.
You might want to take a look as some of the nice brushes that I have in my shop.
Step by Step Guide to Dry Brushing
The process of dry brushing should not take more than 5-10 minutes. Always make sure you are brushing upwards when brushing below the heart and downwards when you are brushing above the heart. There are times you will also be brushing in a circular fashion.
You will want to brush upwards to move lymph toward the upper body and chest. This movement will allow the lymphatic fluid to reenter the bloodstream. Follow the direction of the circulatory system.
Start with the feet working in a circular motion.
Move to the lower legs and knees, making sure to brush all sides of your legs.
Move upward toward the thighs and buttocks, treating them as an extension of your legs.
Continue up toward the small of your back.
Move to your stomach, making circular motions to aid in digestion.
Now brush the hands, again moving across your hands and toward the heart. Move upwards towards your forearms and upper arms, ensuring you get all sides of your hands and arms.
Move to your underarms, where there are many lymph nodes. Brush counter-clockwise in a circular motion ten times. Now brush ten more times in a clockwise motion. Move gently so as not to harm the nodes.
Next move to the jawline. You will now move downward instead of upward. You are again moving toward the heart. Finish off your dry brushing by using circular motions over your heart.
What to Do After You Dry Brush
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After you dry brush, it is important to shower first. This will rinse away any dead skin cells. The next most important thing is to moisturize your skin. This will help to soothe any irritation and replenish your skin's natural oils. Be sure to use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil to help relax and calm your skin. It is also important to drink more filtered water after dry brushing. This will help flush toxins from your body and keep your skin hydrated.
Now grab a good book and some Blood & Lymphatic Detox Tea, and sit back and relax!
You can go here for non-toxic soaps and lotions, etc. They are 100% clean products. Please remember to read your ingredient labels. I cannot stress that enough.
How Often To Dry Brush
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to how often to dry brush. Some people prefer to dry brush daily, while others find that once or twice a week is sufficient. Ultimately, the frequency of dry brushing should be based on your personal preference and goals. If you are looking for gentle exfoliation, you may only need to dry brush once per week. However, if you aim for more intense results, you may choose to dry brush more frequently. Many people find that dry brushing in the morning helps to increase energy levels and circulation, while others prefer to do it at night as part of their relaxation routine.
How to Take Care of Your Dry Brushes
Shampoo your brushes after each use to rinse off the dead skin cells.
Final Thoughts
I would love it very much if you would comment and let me know if this encourages you to start dry brushing. There are so many benefits that I cannot stress how important I feel that dry brushing is to move toward our best health! You may also email me if you have any questions.
Disclaimer: The contents of this website are based on personal experiences, opinions, and my own research. Information on this website is for educational purposes and is not meant to diagnose, replace, treat or cure any medical or mental health condition. Please see your doctor with any health-related questions. Statements on this website have not been approved or evaluated by the FDA. While perusing this site, please use your best judgment in conjunction with your Naturopath or other health care provider.
