Sunday, October 28, 2007

Healthy Skin Tips for Cooler Weather

  • Use a thicker moisturizer when the air is less humid in the winter months
  • Drink at least 10 glasses of water per day. It increases the hydration of our tissues, helping the skin stay smooth and supple.
  • Improve your skin's health from the inside out by eating more fruits and veggies.
  • Take a daily multivitamin
  • Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Both rob vitamins from the body. Smoking also releases free radicals into the system, while alcohol's dehydrating effects further damage the skin.
  • Wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 20. Many makeup products now incorporate sucscreen, so you can save time and protect your skin all at once.
  • Reduce stress. In addition to detrimental effects on the immune system, stress shows in the skin, making it appear dull and lifeless.
  • Get a professional facial once a month

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Why wax and how to find a good waxer

Waxing is one of the best ways to remove hair because it is removed at the root, not just cut of at the skin's surface as it is in shaving. Over time, hair in waxed areas may not grow back at all, or if it does, the hair is thinner. Any part of the body may be waxed. The results last 2-4 weeks after the first waxing and usually 4-6 weeks after several monthly treatments depending on your individual rate of hair growth.

To avoid some of the horror stories discussed in a previous post, here are some questions to ask when looking for someone to wax you.
  • ask your friends who they go to. a personal referral is always a good way to find the right waxer
  • ask what kind of wax they use - if you're getting a leg or back wax, the soft strip wax is usually used. for a bikini, underarm, face, or other sensitive area, hard wax is best because it hardens around the hair and doesn't stick to the skin.
  • ask the person how long they have been practicing
  • ask how many of the waxing services the person does in a week

Once you find someone, let the waxer know about any medications you are taking and any allergies you have. These may effect whether or not it will be safe to wax you or what after care products are used. Aftercare is very important, so don't forget to ask your waxer what you should do to maintain smooth healthy skin after waxing.

Visit the detailed list of FAQ's here http://www.thebodydynamic.com/waxfaq.html

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

What is Lymph Drainage Therapy

Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT) is a massage modality that focuses on the health of the lymphatic system by stimulating the lymphatic flow. The therapist works with flat hands using wave-like movements to move the lymphatc fluid.

The lymphatic system mainly helps the body filter out toxins and maintain a healthy immune system. Unlike the circulatory system, which uses the pumping of the heart to circulate its blood flow, lymph vessels rely upon hundreds of tiny muscular units contracting throughout the body to propel the lymph. The action of these muscular units can be hindered or stopped due to fatigue, stress, lack of physical activity, infections, swelling, chemicals, or food additives. When lymph circulation stagnates, fluids, proteins, and toxins accumulate, and cellular functioning is significantly compromised.

LDT is beneficial in many conditions and is a great preventative tool. Some of the conditions LDT helps to correct are swelling, lymphedema, relief of painful scar tissue, and reduction in symptoms of fibromyalgia. For general health, LDT helps to detoxify the body, encourage relaxation, and is useful pre and post surgery to decrease recovery time.