Exfoliation should be a part of every skincare regimen. If you’ve never done it
(with the right exfoliate, one that actually does something – not the usual
cream with a few seeds or synthetic molecules thrown in to the mix but a real
scrub), you will be amazed at how effective this product is for unclogging
pores, promoting healthy, speedy turnover of skin cells, balancing our oil
production, purifying the pores of toxins and dirt and smoothing skin tone,
creating a radiant, fresh overall look and feel. -
 Salt Scrubs Salt scrubs are generally more abrasive because of their sharper
edges and, therefore, do a better job at smoothing the rough skin of the body.
What really separates salt scrubs from sugar scrubs is that they offer
therapeutic, mineralization benefits. Most salt scrubs use sea salts, which are
natural purifiers that remove the toxins that block the pores of the skin. It
helps the skin breath easier, promotes better circulation, tightens the skin and
improves skin texture. There are many sea salts used in scrubs including
Himalayan, Mediterranean, Hawaiian and Dead Sea Salts from Israel. These various
salts have different trace minerals, which include calcium, magnesium,
potassium, copper and iron. The minerals help to promote circulation, reduce the
inflammatory response, and act as a detoxifying agent and general muscle
relaxant - 
Sugar Scrubs
Sugar scrubs are gentler than salt scrubs because the granule is round and
therefore doesn’t have any ability to “cut” the skin. It’s a far better choice
for sensitive skin types and the only choice for the face. Sugar granules
dissolve more easily in hot water, and they are less abrasive than salt scrubs.
cWhile sugar scrubs don’t have the mineral benefits of salt scrubs, they are less
drying, and many natural scrubs now use natural sugars which contain the
nutritive properties of sugar cane. Because of the smaller, finer granules,
sugar scrubs make a gentle exfoliant that is suitable for next to all skin types
and conditions. The glycolic acid content of sugar is another plus, helping to
protect skin against harmful toxins. Vital for the maintenance of healthy skin,
this acid works to both condition and moisturize. Even for seriously rough and
dry skin, sugar scrubs are great because sugar sizes come in fine, medium and
course. But choose your scrubs wisely. Do not use a body scrub on your face –
it’s too rough. Sugar also has the benefit of melting as you use it, from the
heat of your skin, so you can customize the product based on your personal skin
type and need. For all these reasons, sugar is my personal favorite as scrub
hero!
 
 
 
Whether one chooses a salt or sugar scrub, used regularly, the skin will
become much healthier in function and appearance—better circulation and with a
more even skin tone. Once dead skin cells are removed, the largest organ of the
body works more effectively to remove toxins and absorb nourishment. Best of
all, because both are pure products, there are few, if any side effects, so the
natural glow is exactly that… natural! -
Come on in and get healthy skin.... ahhhhh


 

Stress and the effects of it can wreak havoc on your body both physically and mentally.  Relaxation is the key to reducing the effects of excess stress. Reduce or minimize those effects, and you’ll be on your way to feeling better soon.  Here are some Stress-Busting ideas that will help.

1. Get an extra massage. When you relax during a massage, you let go of muscle tension, worry and mental confusion. This may be one of the few times you slow down and notice what it feels like to relax. This actually helps you program yourself to tune into those feelings and encourage your body and mind to let go of stress and tension.

2. Practice focused relaxation. Sit comfortably or lie down with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Support your neck with a pillow if you prefer. Scan your body, noticing where you feel tension or discom­fort. Breathe slowly into these areas. Imagine relaxation flooding into the areas of discomfort. Begin by practicing ten minutes once a day.

3. Meditate. You will probably have a better chance of sticking with a technique you learn in a class or other group, but in the meantime, try this: Silently repeat a word that has little emotional meaning for you, such as “one.” Give it your full attention. When other thoughts or images come into your mind, ignore them and return your focus to the unspoken word. Don’t strain or try too hard. Simply let your mind keep coming back to your chosen word again and again as thoughts pass through your mind.

4. Practice abdominal breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose. Exhale completely, squeezing the belly tight. Begin by practicing for 5 minutes at a time. Try it when you feel anxious or can’t sleep.

5. Soak in a hot bath. Add several drops of essential oils like lavender or ylang-ylang for relaxation to your bath water.  Don’t have time for a full bath?  Try soaking your feet in Epsom salts and/or the essential oils mentioned above and you will feel the tension melt away.

6. Try biofeedback. A professional biofeedback practitioner can help you develop self-regulation over the mental and physical processes that are associated with stress-related disorders.

7. Take a nap, even if it’s only for ten minutes.

8. Take a warm shower. As the water rushes around your neck, drop your neck forward and stretch it from side to side. Then circle your shoulders slowly under the hot water.

9. Try autosuggestion. Frequently repeat a suggestion to yourself such as “Shoulders free” or “Neck relaxed.” Repeat the suggestion, but don’t strain or do anything at all but say the phrase. This becomes a subtle reminder to you that will help support muscle relaxation.

10. Take a yoga class. Many people find that yoga increases relaxation and relieves many of the effects of stress.

Meridian Healing Therapies practitioners not only are experts at massage, we can also help you to tune into your body's signals.  We can help you to be more aware of how your body is holding stress as we work on releasing that excess tension.  To see how helpful a Meridian Massage can be, contact us today to learn more.