One of the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome is a build up of toxins in the body in the form of inflammation. Skin brushing is a technique that reduces and eliminates toxins through the skin. The skin expels as much as 2 lbs of waste per day and it is the largest source of removing toxins from the body. If this mechanism of removing toxins is blocked by dead skin cells and perspiration that covers the skin toxins can not be removed. Skins cells are replaced every day and the build up of layers prevents the absorption of vitamin D from the sun. This is detrimental in two ways: they do not absorb the necessary vitamin D that reduces inflammation and the skin is blocked from expelling toxins.All detoxification is done through the lymph. The lymph system is sluggish in those with symptoms of chronic fatigue. Dry skin brushing is a means to invigorate the lymph. The lymph does not have a circulatory system like the blood vessels. It depends on detoxification by physical means. Lymph is fluid that is present in all cells and when toxins accumulate it stresses an already inflamed system patients suffering from chronic fatigue. Traditionally, the lymph was drained by manual lymphatic drainage or lymph drain massage originating from Chinese medicine. Recently, the inclusion of skin brushing is being used as a means to detoxify the lymph. The theory behind skin brushing is that it restores the body back to its two central plexuses near the heart and it releases toxins through the limp and expels them from the cells.Dry skin brushing is recommended along with intestinal cleansing programs for persons with symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. Leaky gut is prevented by cleaning out toxins from the intestines and toxins are removed by skin brushing. The added process of skin brushing benefits those diagnosed with chronic fatigue by targeting the two major toxic systems of the body.Skin brushing should be a daily activity and must always be done dry. The brush should also be dry as added moisture could weaken the bristles and lessen the effect of the dry skin brush. Schedule the daily skin brushing before a shower or bath. Tenderness might develop initially, but will subside once the body gets used to the sensation. Care should be taken with individuals who suffer from chronic fatigue as their skin is naturally sensitive from the inflammation. Avoid brushing the face and any open or cracked skin.Special attention should be placed on the two lymph plexuses. These are located at the thoracic duct near the heart (most of the lymph drainage occurs here) and the upper right quadrant of the body affecting the right side of the face, upper rib cage and the liver.To receive the optimum benefit from dry skin brushing, long firm strokes should begin at the feet and move upward toward the heart in the center of the chest. The exception to this process is that in the upper right quadrant of the body the brush strokes should be brushed in a downward fashion toward the liver.Dry skin brushes are readily available and may be purchased from your local chemist.