THE PRACTICE OF BODY BRUSHING
Used for centuries to support circulation and skin renewal.
The benefits of body brushing are both instant and long-term. In the moment, brushing increases blood flow to the skin, which carries oxygen and nutrients to the tissue more efficiently; kept up as a habit, it is one of the more effective things you can do for skin's texture and tone.
The principle is old: the practice has its roots in Ayurveda, where it was used to clear the body of ‘ama’, or built-up toxins. The lymphatic system is responsible for clearing waste and excess fluid from the body's tissue and plays a central role in immune function - yet, unlike blood, lymph has no pump of its own and relies on movement to keep flowing. Brushing is thought to encourage that flow, which is why it's so often credited with reducing swelling and fluid retention; skin can appear firmer and more toned as a result.
It earns its place for skin's sake too. The uppermost layer of skin is often the dullest; brushing exfoliates it away. Done regularly, it also means whatever comes next in a routine - an oil or a cream - absorbs more deeply.
CHOOSING YOUR BRUSH
Our Brush is firm enough for the body, and softer at the edge for more delicate areas: underarms, chest, the inside of the arm. The pressure should come from application, not the bristles. A faint pink flush means the pressure is right; if skin turns red, feels sore or marks appear, adjust the pressure.
THE METHOD
Brush first, on completely dry skin, before you wash: this is the first step in the ritual.
Some prefer to brush in the morning, since the stimulation can leave you feeling more alert and ready for the day ahead. Others prefer the evening, before a bath, as a way to wind down.
- Begin at the feet, brushing upward, always towards the heart - this is the direction the body's own circulation naturally follows. Two or three strokes to each section, working with intention rather than haste.
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Move to the arms, starting at the hands, working up towards the shoulder in firm, considered strokes.
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At the stomach, brush in a slow, circular, clockwise motion, following the body's own rhythm.
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On the back, brush inward towards the spine, then upward towards the shoulders - the areas we tend to neglect deserve the most attention.
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At the chest and neck, ease the pressure right back: the skin here is more delicate.
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You will know you are finished when the skin takes on a faint flush of colour, a sign of strong circulation.
WHAT COMES AFTER
Step into the shower or bath straight after and use one of our body washes to rinse everything away.
Out of the water, while skin is still slightly damp, apply one of our oils or creams. It absorbs best at this point, sealing in moisture rather than sitting on the surface. The Woodland Gel Cream suits those who want something light; the B Balanced Body Oil, an oil finish; the Geranium Hand & Body Lotion is the one for every day. Some prefer to add a little oil to the brush itself, to help it glide - in that case, shower first instead, so the oil isn't rinsed away before it's had the chance to work.
FINDING YOUR RHYTHM
Two or three times a week holds the balance well. Daily suits some, though most skin prefers a day's rest in between.