The Benefits of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy provides many excellent benefits by way of stress relief, mood enhancement, circulatory improvement, respiratory stimulation and immunity boosting activity. It can tremendously benefit those who suffer from a variety of emotional, psychological and physical problems. While aromatherapy cannot cure medical conditions, it can provide relief from many side effects and symptoms of illnesses and disorders. This relief is due to the ability of aroma-chemicals to interact with your own body chemistry and cause it to release chemicals that help you relax, enhance your mood and boost your circulatory, respiratory and immune systems.

There have been cited reports of the use of essential oils to effectively reduce inflammation, heal wounds, decrease respiratory congestion, kill fungal and bacterial infections, aid digestion,relieve migraine headaches, improve skin conditions, increase blood circulation, regulate hormones and relax muscles. With the scents of natural essential oils we can create environments that match our desired mood and persona. We can revive our spirits, increase our energy and focus levels, nurture romance or calm frazzled nerves.

Citrus oils are known to alleviate depression and stimulate a better mood, while Mint or Pine scents instill a fresh, clean note that helps relieve headaches. Jasmine and Sandalwood are ideal to instill romanticism. Rose and Ylang Ylang have antiseptic qualities and have also been used as natural antidepressants. It has been found that oils of Lavender, Sandalwood and Sage can stimulate the production of serotonin, our natural “happy chemical.” It is for this reason that these oils are highly effective in the treatment of insomnia, stress and anxiety.

Healthy Skin Guide

Daily Skincare

Daily skincare is important for keeping the complexion in balance. Balanced skin is clear, soft, healthy and radiant. We must cleanse to remove dirt and impurities that can accumulate throughout the day and night, tone to balance and improve texture, and moisturize to hydrate and protect.

1. Cleanse

Makeup, environmental pollutants, excess oil, dirt and dead cells accumulate on the skin's surface every day. These substances can clog pores, cause breakouts and make skin look dull. All it takes is a simple cleansing to prevent the buildup of these impurities.

How to properly cleanse skin:

Cleansing does not need to be harsh to be effective. A gentle cleanser can do wonders, and won't strip the skin of its essential oils and nutrients. For the most effective cleansing, apply a small amount of a mild cleanser to the face and neck with fingertips or a soft cloth. Skin can be moist or dry at this point. Begin to add warm or lukewarm water to form a light lather and massage the skin with very gentle circular motions. This will dislodge dirt and impurities. Do not tug or pull on the skin! Our facial skin is very delicate and we do not want to cause undue stress that can lead to broken capillaries, stress-induced breakouts or wrinkles. Rinse cleanser away with mild or cool water and pat dry with a soft cotton towel.

2. Tone

Toning is important because it will remove any last traces of dirt or impurities that cleansing may have missed. In addition, it restores balance to the skin after cleansing by closing pores and restoring the skin's natural pH. Toning refines the skin's texture and primes for moisturizer by aiding in the absorption of nutrients and hydration.

How to tone skin:

Apply a small amount of an alcohol free toner to a toning cloth or cotton ball and gently sweep over skin, avoiding the delicate eye area. Allow to dry before applying additional products.

3. Moisturize

Every skin type needs moisturizer, especially after cleansing and toning. This essential step in daily skincare nourishes, rehydrates, protects, soothes and softens skin. It can help to prevent premature aging as well as to diminish lines and wrinkles. A good moisturizer will condition the skin, making it soft, smooth and supple. It also protects the skin by forming a barrier to dirt and pollutants and sealing moisture inside.

To Rehydrate and Protect Skin:

Apply a small amount of a nutrient-rich, natural moisturizer to freshly cleansed and toned face and neck. Use gentle upward motions to "feed" thirsty skin until most of the product is absorbed, adding more as needed. The key is treating the skin delicately, avoiding tugging or pulling, especially around the eye and lip areas.

With just a few minutes a day and these three simple steps you can improve your skin's tone, texture, clarity and function for a smooth, soft and radiantly healthy complexion.