Are you ready for seasonal changes?

Even though the temperature outside is quite pleasant for October, it is starting to get colder. As we enter the winter months, our whole environment changes. In winter, there is less moisture in the air, and you may notice your skin is getting more irritated, dry and tight. Turning on central heating doesn’t help either as it reduces humidity in the air.  If you suffer from acne or rosacea you might feel the effects of seasonal changes even more. I especially feel the cold affecting my hands and lips and this lovely aromatherapy creambalm is my saviour https://tropicskincare.com/products/hand-creambalm . Excess dry skin can lead to break outs and hormonal balance can lead to skin changes for those who tend to comfort eat in winter months.

 So what can help?

It can be as simple as changing your skincare routine.

• Changing to a gentler cleanser, cleansing balm or oil can help as they keep skin hydrated but don’t disrupt the protective barrier.

• If you exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, make sure you do this gently and not very often, once a week is sufficient.

• Change from light moisturiser to a creamier one for that extra moisture and protection.

• As always, we have to remember to drink enough water to hydrate from the inside as well.

Having massages in winter will be extra beneficial for your mood, blood circulation, your skin will get that extra moisture it so badly needs . I like spoiling my clients and so I use a high quality medium Liquiwax for body massages. Liquiwax is a cross between lotion and a massage wax, contains good quality essential oils and many of my clients love how soft and moisturised their body feels afterwards.  

Self-massage is something that you can do yourself to relieve stress, headaches or tired muscles. After your treatment I can teach you these simple techniques as it may also prolong the effects of massage between treatments. 

Here is how you could try to relieve a headache or just feel more relaxed in general:

Head Massage

• Lower your shoulders away from your ears

• Straighten your neck and back

• Locate the base of your skull

• Place the index and middle fingers of each hand in the center, fingertips touching

• Apply gentle pressure and slide your fingers outward or downward, moving in the direction that feels best

• Move your fingers in small circular motions

• Focus on the tense spots, along with the areas around such as neck and shoulders

Massaging temples is a great and quick way to relax if you are getting stressed at work!

• Apply gentle pressure for about 10 seconds, release and repeat

• You can also use circular movement to massage them

• For even deeper relaxation breathe slowly and deeply

Watch out for more self-massage tips!

Many of us consider massage to be just a luxury treat. However, numerous studies have shown benefits associated with massage, especially when received regularly. These benefits are both mental and physical and contribute to a better quality of life. 

So what are the main benefits of getting a regular massage?

Calms your nervous system

Moderate pressure moves the skin which calms the nervous system. Calmer nervous system lowers blood pressure and decreases heart rate.

Reduces symptoms of anxiety and stress

Our nervous system responds to stress and anxiety and our bodies will be experiencing fight and flight response. Massage will help you to calm your nervous system which in turn eases anxiety and stress. 

Improves sleep

If you have troubles sleeping, massage can also help with that! Due to relaxing effects on our nervous system, your quality of sleep may improve. Sleeping deeper reduces your levels of pain neurotransmitter, which reduces overall pain.

Imagine being able to cope with daily stresses better, sleep better and feel less tension in your shoulders. All you need to do is to book your session, lay down on a comfortable massage couch and relax!