Grab a brush and watch how easy it is to Get Comfortable. We asked Heidi Golden, a certified massage therapist,  ” What can all mothers do to better both their health and the health of their baby while pregnant?” Heidi shares Dry Brushing.

The skin is the largest organ of the body. It eliminates more than one pound of waste per day. If the skin becomes inactive by build up of millions of dead skin cells clogging our pores the impurities remain within the body. We wash it daily and protect it from the suns harmful rays but we forget one of the healthiest things we can do for our skin and ultimately our overall health -- “dry brushing”.

Dry brushing stimulates movement of the circulation & lymphatic systems. Lymph is considered part of our immune system and is made of white blood cells called lymphocytes and the interstitial fluid that bathe our cells, bringing our cells nutrients and removing their waste. All detoxification occurs first and foremost through the lymph. Our bodies contain far more lymph than blood, so you can see how important this might be. Dry brushing literally moves the lymph containing large proteins and particulate matter that cannot be transported in any other way back into circulatory system.

Dry brushing can remove cellulite, strengthen the immune system, remove dead skin layers, tone muscles and help digestions.  Dry brushing during pregnancy is a great way to keep toxins flushed, enhancing and cleansing the lymph system which can become sluggish during this time and creating unwanted swelling. Of course, brush very gently on your belly, more vigorously on arms and legs.

To dry brush, use a soft natural fiber brush with a long handle, so that you are able to reach all areas of your body. One with a removable head with a strap for your hand is a good choice. Some guidelines, always brush towards the heart. Treat major lymph areas first -- e.g. armpit area before the chest and arms and the groin area before the legs & abdomen. Before your morning shower is a great way to start of your day with a clearer mind and boosted spirit.

Heidi Golden’s career began in 1994 and she prides herself in giving attention to each client’s individual needs, working with them to provide the most beneficial massage & home protocol recommendations at each visit. Heidi is currently working with Macrotherapy of Scottsdale, under which she is working with microcurrent therapy for post surgical massage & adhesions. Heidi’s hobbies include essential oils, mineral & crystal collecting & designing. She incorporates her hobbies into her massage practice. Heidi is a nationally accredited licensed massage therapist.

2 Responses to “Dry Brushing”

1. Ania Kubicki says:

   July 14, 2009 at 6:41 am

   Great topic! Never considered this, thanks for the insight!
2. Vanessa says:

   July 16, 2009 at 3:55 pm

   I tried dry brushing while I was pregnant earlier this summer and it really helped with the swelling that I had. And now after giving birth my skin just loves being dry brushed! It’s something that seems simple but it really works.