We all think of brushing our hair and teeth as essential activities when getting ready. As important as they are, the brushing doesn't need to stop there. Most of us neglect our skin, thinking that moisturising is enough to nourish our bodies.

However, most moisturisers don't always leave you feeling soft for very long. This is because they are being applied over dry skin instead of addressing the problem. This one of a few reasons why brushing your body can be much more beneficial to your skin.

The thought of brushing your skin probably seems a little strange, but it is a revitalising and detoxifying activity that actually becomes quite pleasurable if done regularly.

The perks
You're probably also wondering, what's the point? Body brushing is one of the best-kept health secrets. It can improve the texture of your skin, motivate blood cells and remove toxins from the body which can reduce cellulite in your thighs and bottom.

So if you are forever diving on and off diets and are tired of having to constantly raid the supermarket shelves for the low-GI bread, this is a great plan for you. A simple stroke of the brush will bring nutrients and oxygen to the outer layer of the skin and remove dead skin cells to create healthy, glowing skin. The amount of waste our body accumulates is a scary thought, but by surfacing all the trapped rubbish you can eliminate a third of body waste. Not so scary now, eh?

Dr Gillian McKeith has recommended body brushing and claims: 'You'll feel amazing after, and in just two weeks you'll notice a huge difference'. As usual, she's not wrong! Just think of body brushing being an easy way to a gorgeous-looking body, smoother-feeling skin, better health, and a great way to relax. So it's not really a chore at all.

How to brush
Body brushing began in ancient Roman times and involves using a skin brush to gently brush your arms and legs, in long motions, working towards the heart. If the idea of using a brush sends shivers up your spine then start by using a rough towel or a loofah until you're ready to apply more pressure. But believe me, using a brush will show you amazing results, and fast.

It'll take a week to get used to the initial abrasiveness, and in just two weeks your skin will have a nice healthy glow. Always brush dry skin just before you take a bath or shower. Start brushing just once a day and you'll soon notice the difference.

Start with your feet and work your way up, using long smooth, upward strokes. When you get to the abdominal area, brush in circular, clockwise motions to stimulate the colon.

Skin brushes are available from any health or beauty store, as well as pharmacies. Try to get a brush with stiff bristles to generate better lymphatic stimulation. Don't forget to keep it hygienic - a clean brush means clean skin.

Don't overdo it!
Five minutes of brushing is more than enough, and beginners should start by brushing no more than four times a week. Once brushing becomes pleasurable you can brush twice daily. The stomach is an optional area, but avoid brushing sensitive areas like nipples.

Never brush broken or irritated skin, as it can cause any irritations to get worse and redden the area.

On trial
If you're not convinced by the wonders of body brushing yet, try it for only two weeks, reflecting each day on how you look and feel. I can't promise you'll drop three dress sizes or wake up with completely flawless skin, but with a little persistence you'll definitely see and feel the benefits.