It's easy to forget that the skin is an organ - the body's largest eliminative organ, in fact. When operating at its peak, the skin should excrete up to one-third of the body's toxins - that's a lot of gunk. While we are fairly obsessed with keeping our skin hairless and silky soft, we give don't give nearly enough attention to how well it functions.

Enter the dry brush. This is a common vegetable bristle scrub brush found in many showers and which is often used incorrectly in those showers. Dry brushing is just that. Dry. Brushing the skin without water brings blood to its surface and stimulates the lymphatic system, which helps the body release toxins. A good dry brush can also decrease cellulite and help to keep the pores open. So while dry brushing can be done while standing in the shower, it shouldn't be attempted while the water is running. Then it would be wet brushing. Brushing while dry cleanses the skin and removes dead skin cells without interfering with the skin's natural oils. Initially it may feel a bit harsh to run a hard-bristled brush across body parts that rarely see the sun - specifically the stomach, lower back, and upper thighs - but it eventually gets easier. You may even start to like it.

Dry brushing is usually done before bathing, as the water will wash away the dead skin. Always brush your arms and legs first in a circular motion towards the heart and don't brush your face (ouch). A vigorous brushing is an excellent morning stimulant leaving you tingly and refreshed. I highly recommend it.

[via Body and Fitness]

Image: stellarspa.com