As the Baby Boomer (1946 – 1960) generation ages, we see a trend of more and more products and services being offered that are geared to promoting a more youthful appearance and outlook on life. New anti-wrinkle creams are being brought out every month, each one purporting to be better than any others on the market. Unfortunately many of the super expensive creams don’t actually work any better than the less expensive ones. For those who are a little more aggressive in their approach there is always ‘Botox’ and surgical facelifts.
So what happens when the skin ages?
The skin consists of three layers, the epidermis, the protective outer layer of the skin; the dermis, where the connective tissue is to be found and the subcutaneous layer containing fat cells. There are many factors that contribute to skin aging but basically the cells in the skin divide more slowly, and the dermis, starts to thin. The fat cells beneath the dermis begin to atrophy, and the underlying network of elastin and collagen fibers, which provides scaffolding for the surface layers, loosens and unravels. Skin loses its elasticity and its ability to retain moisture diminishes, while the sweat and oil-secreting glands
atrophy, depriving the skin of their protective water-lipid emulsions. As a consequence, the skin becomes dry and scaly. Exposure to ultraviolet light, UVA or UVB,from sunlight accounts for 90% of the symptoms of premature skin aging including wrinkles. The most important skin-care product available to prevent wrinkles is sunscreen. While anti-wrinkle creams could help reduce the appearance of aging, they are generally not permanent wrinkle removers. They either help to remove the
dead outer layer of the skin or they hydrate the skin and plump it up, giving it the appearance of removing wrinkles.
Lymphatic Stimulation is a very precise technique which requires light, rhythmical, spiral-like movements to accelerate the movement of lymphatic fluids in the body. The lymphatic system has several different functions, the most important of which are the collection and transportation of tissue fluids from the intercellular spaces in all the tissues of the body back to the veins in the blood system. Among the different substances to be found in the dermis are the cells that produce collagen and elastic fibers. So it make sense to think that if wastes are removed from these cells more effectively it would be helpful in keeping the skin more hydrated and plumped up and allow these cells to function better.
Lymphatic Stimulation Facial can be a mini ‘facelift’ and when applied on a regular basis improves one’s chances of keeping a youthful, glowing skin for a long time.
Bach Remedy - Aspen
The remedy for anxiety and apprehension. For those times when you are afraid but don't know what it is you are afraid of. The Aspen type fears are fears of the mind. Nightmares, waking in fear and panic and not daring to go back to sleep again or children afraid to be alone or sleep in the dark, for fear of the 'bogey man' or similar notions are Aspen type fears.Aspen fears can occur at any time day or night - inexplicable anxiety or a sense of foreboding.
Using the remedy helps one to feel protected and unafraid.
Essential Oil - Jasmine
In India, Jasmine was called "Queen of the Night" and "moonlight of the groove" and was used as both an aphrodisiac and an aid to spiritual growth. There is also a tradition that refers to Jasmine as the "King of Oils" while Rose is referred to as the "Queen of Oils".
Traditionally Jasmine has been considered to be excellent in easing labor pains and encouraging contractions. It is considered to be helpful in speeding up the expulsion of the afterbirth and the overall recovery after giving birth. While it is often cited as stimulating the production of milk, there have been a couple of research studies that have shown that application of Jasmine flowers to the breast inhibited lactation.
Psychologically, Jasmine has aphrodisiac, calming and sedative properties and its use can be considered for dispelling fear, uplifting one's mood, emotional suffering, lightening of depression and stress related disorders.
On the physiological level it has antispasmodic and calming properties and it is thought to regulate and deepen breathing. It is also thought to be useful both during and after childbirth.
On a subtle level Jasmine unites and harmonizes opposites to promote wholeness. It calms, soothes, relaxes and lifts the spirits. It helps one to release worry and allow one to live in the present moment. It can promote feelings of love and sensuality. It balances feminine and masculine energy. Jasmine can be included in love, psychic awareness, peace and spirituality blends.
