The Benefits of Aromatherapy

Did you know that essential oils not only smell good but have therapeutic benefits?  You can smell the oils, apply it directly to your skin or envelope a room in its aroma.  They are meant to heal, relax and bring tranquility.  Learning about their many benefits and uses will help bring wellness in a natural way.

You can relax at the end of the day by taking a warm bath and blending a few drops of chamomile, tangerine and bergamot in your bath water.  This blend helps bring calm and balance to a long stressful day.

To energize yourself at the start of your day, try washing with peppermint, cedarwood and sage.  These oils help awaken your body and your senses.

Essential oils are also great for treating skin conditions such as acne.  The correct oils can be anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.  Using oils such as lavender, blue cypress, patchouli and tea tree oil can help treat acne successfully.  Remember to dilute the oil with a carrier oil such as grapeseed oil before applying directly to the skin.

The healing effects of the correct combination of essential oils will help bring emotional and physical well being to your everyday life.  Educate yourself to their benefits and enjoy a lifetime of balanced health.

For more information on essential oils and guidelines click here.


Source: Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa, April 2011

The Battle with Cellulite

Getting rid of cellulite seems to be as difficult as getting Republicans and Democrats to get along.  If you're like most women, you have spent your rent money on anti-cellulite creams and gadgets to find that the only thing they do is make your skin feel smoother.  It's a frustrating situation, but one that you can have a small bit of control over.

First we have to accept that genetics has a role in those dimply thighs.  It's not only the brown eyes that we inherit from our parents.  Other factors involved are metabolism, circulation and even stress can control how our body stores fat.  Although everyone hates to hear this, the most effective way of controlling cellulite is through a healthy diet and exercise. Alcohol and smoking also increase the amount of toxicity in the body.  Drink plenty of water and avoid sugar loaded drinks.

Of course, if you want an extra push, there are alternatives that do help to decrease the look of cellulite.  Devices such as Tri-Active or VelaSmooth use massage, suction, light/heat to break up fat deposits, improve circulaton and tighten skin.  SmartLipo is another alternative that is minimally invasive and provides fat removal and body contouring with the cellulite treatment.

Some physicians are even using hormonal rebalancing to treat cellulite.  They feel the hormonal imbalance contributes to cellulite development.  These physicians use bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and natural supplements to battle the bulge.

Remember, cellulite is stubborn and difficult, but with some persistence and dedication, you can definitely help your body  look and feel better.

Source: New You -Winter 2010/2011