Glow from Within
In our pursuit of radiant skin and a youthful appearance, it's vital to recognise that our skin is more than a mere canvas for cosmetics. It stands as a living, breathing organ, deeply intertwined with our overall wellbeing. This blog post explores a mindful approach to skincare, delving into the intricate connection between our skin, health and holistic wellness.
Understanding Skincare Absorption
Every topical skincare product we apply is more than just a surface treatment; it holds the potential to permeate our skin barrier, making its way into our bloodstream and affecting our health. While this can be a positive thing, especially when nourishing our skin with natural nutrients and antioxidants, it becomes concerning when we consider the presence of harmful chemicals in many skincare products.
The presence of an array of toxins such as parabens, phthalates and sulphates in conventional skincare disrupts our body's delicate hormonal balance and undermines our overall wellbeing. This accumulation of toxins strains our body's inherent detoxification mechanisms, leading to a range of health issues.
Choosing Mindful Skincare Products
By taking a conscious consumer approach and opting for natural, organic and non-toxic alternatives, we can minimise exposure to harmful chemicals while nurturing our skin from within. Ingredients such as vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, as well as botanical extracts like green tea, rose hip oil and aloe vera can stimulate collagen production, improve skin texture and provide protection against environmental stressors. These natural elements work synergistically and in harmony with our skin to promote long-term skin health and vitality.
Practices for Mindful Skincare: Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) techniques
Integrating mindful skincare practices can further support the natural detoxification processes and therefore the skin. Let's delve into some techniques:
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) honours the body's innate healing abilities. It promotes balance from within by awakening the lymphatic system.
To integrate Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) into your self-care routine, take a moment to familiarise yourself with our lymphatic map. This guide will serve as your compass, directing you on how to effectively practice MLD in the comfort of your own home.
Dry Brushing
Originating from ancient Ayurvedic practices, dry brushing involves gently massaging the body with a natural bristle brush, promoting circulation, exfoliation, and detoxification. This age-old ritual offers many benefits for both your skin and your overall health.
One of the primary benefits of dry brushing is its ability to exfoliate the skin. By gently brushing the skin's surface, you slough off dead skin cells, revealing fresh, radiant skin. This process not only enhances the skin's appearance but also allows moisturisers to penetrate more deeply, resulting in softer, smoother skin.
Stimulates Circulation
Dry brushing also acts as a natural stimulant for the body's circulation. As you brush, you invigorate the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in removing toxins and waste from the body. Improved circulation not only contributes to healthier-looking skin but also promotes overall detoxification and a strengthened immune system.
How to dry brush:
- Choose the right brush: Select a dry brush with natural bristles.
- Start with dry skin: Dry brushing is done on dry skin, preferably before showering.
- Begin at your feet: Begin brushing at your feet and work your way up towards your heart. Use gentle, upward strokes, moving in the direction of your heart to support lymphatic drainage.
- Use long, gentle strokes: Use long, sweeping motions rather than scrubbing harshly. Apply light pressure.
- Brush each area thoroughly: Spend several minutes brushing each area of your body. Focus on areas with thicker skin, such as your legs and arms, but be gentle on more sensitive areas like your chest and stomach.
- Pay attention to direction: Always brush towards the centre/heart region of your body to encourage lymphatic flow. For example, when brushing your arms, brush from your hands towards your armpits.
- Finish with a shower: After dry brushing, take a warm shower to rinse away any loosened dead skin cells. Follow with Energize Toning Body Oil or Skin Restore Nourishing Body Oil.
- Clean your brush: Regularly clean your dry brush with soap and water to remove any dead skin cells and bacteria.
- Consistency is key: For optimal results, make dry brushing a regular part of your skincare routine. Aim to do it once daily or a few times a week to reap the benefits.
The Gua Sha method:
Gua Sha is a time-honoured technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, valued for its ability to reduce inflammation, increases microcirculation, sculpt facial contours and promote lymphatic drainage.
Incorporate Gua Sha into your skincare routine 2-3 times per week for optimal results.
Crafted from aventurine crystal, our Gua Sha tool embodies the healing properties of this gemstone. Aventurine is known for prosperity and confidence, as well as its calming and soothing energy, making it an ideal companion for Gua Sha rituals.
Take a look at our dedicated gua sha tool page for further inspiration and a quick step-by-step usage guide.
