Skin Brushing During the Daniel Fast

 You will likely notice an increase of dry skin during the 21-Day Daniel Fast as your body inproves in health and sloughs off dead cells. Body brushing, or skin brushing, is not necessarily part of showering. In fact, dry body brushing is becoming more popular as man and women learn of the benefits of stimulating the skin (our largest organ) and increasing blood flow. Many people brush their bodies daily and/or before showing.

According to Howard Murad, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and author of “The Cellulite Solution” skin brushing helps control cellulite by bringing nutrients and oxygen to the outer layer of skin (the epidermis). “Although there are no blood vessels in the epidermis, the dermis is rich with blood vessels, and the epidermis receives nutrients and oxygen supply from the dermis,” says Murad.

Skin brushing requires nothing more than a small body brush with natural bristles. Good brushes are available at most variety stores for under $10.

To brush your skin, start at you feet and sweep up the legs in long, light brisk movements. All skin brushing movements should be towards the heart, to encourage the return of blood and encourage lymphatic flow.

Pay particular attention to the cellulite-prone areas like your thighs. Brush your abdomen with a circular motion. It should take about three to five minutes, depending on how many strokes you give each spot.

Don’t be too rough. Over-brushing causes the skin to turn red and become irritated

Brush your skin first thing in the morning, when the increased blood flow will help wake you up, or before you take a shower.