Skin is the largest organ of our body and serves as a means of elimination as well as a barrier to the environment. It is estimated that one- third of daily impurities are excreted via the skin and that we shed about 40,000 skin cells per minute. So how can we enhance the beauty of our skin naturally?
dry-skin brushing
Dry skin brushing stimulates the lymphatic system by aiding the flow of fluids in our bodies. Our lymphatic system is essential in regards to the elimination of toxins and in strengthening our immune system. It helps to clear away dead skin cells and toxins that have accumulated on the outer layer of our skin. In return the skin will be able to absorb oxygen and nutrients from the environment. Benefits of regular skin brushing are:
– encourages cell renewal
– enhances blood circulation
– provides a healthy glow
– increases muscle tone
– busts stress
– detoxifies body and mind
And here is how it’s done: Ideally brush your skin in the morning, standing in your shower. Start with your feet and move up your body with strokes towards the heart. Around the stomach and chest, use clockwise movements. Brush each section with at least 3 to 5 strokes. Brush front and back of your body. It should feel good, pleasant and invigorating and if done correctly will turn your skin rosy.
An effective polishing body brush can be purchased from the Aromatherapy Associates, and an effective facial brush can be purchased from Shiseido.
How can we further enhance beautiful skin after dry skin brushing?
hot + cold shower routine
Now is the ideal time to use hydrotherapy to further enhance all the benefits of dry skin- brushing.
And here is how it’s done: Get completely wet with a temperature of water that is comfortable. Slowly increase the temperature up to the point you can barely stand it. Now turn the water to the temperature down to the coldest tolerable setting and expose body and face to the cold water. Next turn the water hot again, expose body and face to the hot water and then cold again. Repeat the procedure seven times, always begin with hot water and end off with cold water.
Keep up the routine on a regular basis to enjoy beautiful skin forever.
Over a decade ago Vanessa trained with the Esalen Institute in California in massage therapy and has been a passionate holistic practitioner ever since. She deepened her knowledge about the human body and mind at the College of Naturopathic Medicine, qualifying in naturopathy and nutritional therapy. While studying she worked in various 5 star spa environments offering luxurious facial and spa treatments. She recently designed the Skin & Tonic facial ritual and further studied with Celestial Earth in Alchemy Energetic Healing Techniques. Her deeply caring nature, combined with a skilful touch and a peaceful environment will help you let go, relax and heal.
