Monday, March 23, 2015

SPRING LIFESTYLE TRANSITIONING TIPS


(Image from www.fanpop.com)
As I write this, spring has officially arrived, but winter’s final brush stroke of snow has painted many parts of the country, including my own with nearly six inches of the white stuff.  At this rate, I think the accumulated snow in many of these areas won’t melt for some time; it’s also not unusual for warm temps to take hold until mid-April.  And while it’s definitely been a harsh and wicked winter for many, anything that reminds you of spring, like birds chirping or new growth poking their cute little green heads through the nearly thawed ground, should be welcome reminders of the new season.

Whenever a season transitions into another, I’m also reminded of how these changes impact virtually every aspect of my life.  Following are some helpful tips I’ve developed over the years that will help you transition from winter into spring, and even into summer. 

Springtime is a time for renewal in purpose of self, so renew and enjoy my tips and all that this beautiful new season has to offer.   

~ Skincare and Body Care ~

(Image from www.skincarevitals.com) 
Change your skin and body care regimens, including the products you’ve used.  Go with lighter formulations.  Warming temps also mean more humidity in the air, so you might need to forgo using a serum or booster, plus heavier-weight moisturizers, and just go with a light or medium-weight moisturizer.  Don’t forget to use a serum and eye care product that’s formulated to your skin type and the season.

Consider exfoliating less and reducing the intensity of your cleansing regimen.  If your regimen and product changes are too drastic, your skin will react; so, pay attention to what your skin might be telling you to do, or not to do; if your skin is easily irritated, then you need to tone down the exfoliation routine and get a gentler implement. 

A nice gentle exfoliator to consider is corn meal; added to your cleanser, your skin won’t be stressed out by the granules.  Oil is another gentle way to cleanse the skin; use pure fruit and nut oils, and avoid anything with additives or synthetics, which are harsh and full of skin irritants and toxins.

Consider using chilled face toners or an essential oil-based spritzer to refresh the face and neck areas throughout the day, especially as temperatures heat up and humidity increases. 

Chill your toner and spritz away for a pick-me-up throughout the day.  Chilled rosewater, even the culinary type, is also a great refresher.

Consider dry brushing in the morning; not only does it exfoliate dead skin cells, but it also primes the pores for showering, while revving up the circulation; begin at the feet and work you way up to your chest, using circular motions.  After you come out of the shower, leave skin damp and then apply your favorite moisturizer.

Continue using products with a sunscreen/SPF rating to protect the skin from UVA/UVB rays.  If uncertain, consult a dermatologist or esthetician.

Even though the temps might be warming, don’t skip your regular skincare and body care regimens.  Treat the face and body as you did during winter, only a bit gentler.

~ Fragrance and Beyond ~

(Image from www.belcamshop.com) 
Change the intensity of your fragrance.  Go with lighter formulations and scent profiles, such as florals or greens, versus woods, ambers, musk, etc.  Remember, as temperatures warm up and humidity levels increase, so too will your body heat, intensifying the fragrance, which could make it too cloying.

Both the weight of clothing fabric and color palettes should changeover from weightier-fabric materials with darker colors (e.g. wood, rayon, blends, cashmere, etc.), to that of lighter-weight fabrics (e.g. cotton, silk, natural fiber blends, etc.) that are more neutral or pastel in color; lighter weight fabrics and colors also keep the skin cooler, naturally.

~ Nature’s Voice ~

(Image from www.stylonica.com) 
When in doubt, look to nature for cues on what to do.  For example, during the day when the sun’s rays are their strongest, most birds and other creatures have the good sense to seek shade and avoid rigorous activity. 

Take a cue from them, slow down and stay cooler.  Animals also begin shedding their winter “coats” to prepare for the warmer temperatures. 

What may have worked during the fall and winter, might not necessarily work in the spring and the lead-up to summer.

Consider bringing in the outdoors inside with multiple houseplants to remind you of the new season and the cycle of new growth.  Fresh flowers also brighten the spirit, so keep them close at hand.

~ Lifestyle and Wellness ~

(Image from www.myempireclub.com)  
Lighten up on the types of foods you consume and continue drinking plenty of water to maintain a healthy digestive and circulatory system.  Warmer temps and heavier foods are more taxing on the digestive system.  

Up your intake of water; not only is this good for hydration, it also keeps the body temp better regulated and cooler; just make sure to avoid chilled liquids, because with over exposure to sun, the combination can lead to a life-threatening condition, a chilled stomach where the internal temperature of the stomach is lowered to less than your body temperature; I’m speaking from personal experience; a chilled stomach is a horrible affliction to have.

When over-heated or flushed, slow down and don’t over stress your body.  Try rubbing ice cubes over pressure points (nape of neck, inside wrists, behind knees, temples, arches, outer sides of Achilles heel, etc.) for relief.  Another way to get relief is to soak the feet in cool water, or to take cool showers.

Take leisurely walks and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.  The best times for doing this are early morning or at sunset, when it’s cooler and less humid.

Don’t forget to open those windows and let the balmy breezes and fresher air come indoor and envelope you.

~ In Closing ~

(Image from www.fanpop.com) 
Take the time to notice the rebirth of nature and enjoy it.  Celebrate and embrace the changes, because they’re a part of the cycle of life.

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

Thursday, March 12, 2015

PRODUCTS THAT WELCOME SPRING



Spring is almost officially here, and with it will come the return of fresher air, balmy breezes, sunny blue skies, and renewed growth.  All are welcoming signs of spring.  And, just like the freshness that spring reveals, the following products will help you to shake off those winter-weary doldrums.  Enjoy!

~ Renewed Skin ~


Amarte Skin Care Daily ExfoliPowder ~ Superfine micro particles in the Daily ExfoliPowder gently polish skin, revealing a refined texture, that’s refreshed and luminous.  The self-measured dose can be mixed with water to form a paste-like consistency, or added to a creamy cleanser; apply in circular motions.  Key ingredients include natural mung bean seed extract, rice bran extract, wheat bran extract, and pearl powderhttp://www.amarteskincare.com


Devera Naturals Multi-Vitamin Serum and Snow Flower Crème ~ These are ideal for revealing spring skin naturally and formulated with natural ingredients.  The Multi-Vitamin Serum was gentle and enveloped skin, adding a layer of comfort to my winter-stressed skin.  Key ingredients include Kukui oil, macadamia oil, olive oil, coconut water, vitamins A, C, E and F, algae, and lemon peel oil.  The Snow Flower Crème was also gentle and quickly absorbed without leaving any residue.  Hydration levels were maintained throughout the day.  Key ingredients include Edelweiss plant stem cells, macadamia oil, coconut oil, coconut water, goji berry extract, algae, and lemon peel extract.  Both products had a delightful citrus aroma that made me think of lemon frosting every time I used the products.  Overall, my skin felt smooth, firm, hydrated, and less irritated; fine lines and wrinkles were diminished.  https://deveranaturals.com


Kat Burki Body Butter ~ This dense, rich Body Butter was quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue.  Immediate results of improved texture and levels of hydration on very dry areas, which were maintained throughout day.  Key ingredients include Proprietary Organic Herb Blend, Organic Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Coconut Oil, Cocoa Butter, Natural Fragrance, Organic Beeswax, Organic Jojoba Oil, Tamanu Oil, Organic Borage Oil, Organic Flax Seed Oil, Organic Evening Primrose Oil, Organic Rose Hip Oil, Vitamin B5, Wildcrafted Arnica, Organic Lavender, Organic Calendula, Organic Chamomile, Grapeseed Oil, and Macadamia Nut Oil.  Skin texture was refined and deeply hydrated.  http://katburki.com


Korres Greek Yogurt Advanced Nourishing Sleeping Facial ~ More than a Sleeping Facial, it’s a restorative nighttime facial treatment in the form of an intense hydrating cream that nourishes and refines irritated skin texture.  This rich, natural product immediately soothes stressed skin gently, without irritating, and is quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue.  Key ingredients include Greek yogurt concentrated proteins, yogurt powder, soybean oil, vitamins C and E, aloe leaf, jojoba seed oil, and sunflower seed oil.  My “morning skin” was incredibly smooth and hydrated; fine lines and wrinkles were diminished; skin looked refreshed, firm, and luminous.  http://www.korresusa.com


Nordic Beauty Organic Youth Collagen Peptide Crème ~ This rich dense product is formulated with natural and certified organic ingredients, the Peptide Crème hydrated and soothed my irritated dry skin immediately; it was quickly absorbed without leaving any tacky residue; fine lines and wrinkles were diminished and hydration levels were maintained throughout the day; skin was firm and luminous.  Key ingredients include marine collagen peptide, iris plant stem cells, arnica oil, Squalane, French green clay, Edelweiss extract, aloe vera gel, vitamin E, frankincense essential oil, myrrh essential oil, green tea extract, and hibiscus extracthttp://nordicbeauty.com

~ Renewed Esthetics ~


Dermelect Anti-Aging Nail Care ~ Readying the hands for the season’s reveal, where the gloves are off, requires some TLC, the right products, and fresh, subtle colors.  The Dermelect Anti-Aging product range restores hydration to dry and weakening nails, while reinforcing them with therapeutic strengthening products.  The Anti-Aging range includes Rejuvenail (Fortifying Nail & Cuticle Treatment), Launchpad (Nail Strengthener), Revital-Oil (Nail & Cuticle Treatment), and Memento (Manicure Extender Top Coat).  The Nail Lacquers, perfect for transitioning from winter to spring, include formulas that are peptide infused, offering UV protection, extended wear, full coverage, and resistant to chipping, water and detergent; they’re also formulated without formaldehyde or toluene.  Fresh spring colors included Fant-A-Sea, a peachy gloss; Dune My Thing, a lavender matte; A Shore Thing, a blush pink sheer; and Lazy Daze, a buttery creamy gloss.  Your nails will blossom after treatment and color.  http://dermelect.com/anti-aging-nail-care/


La Bella Donna Duo Lip Crayon, Baci-Baci Moisturizing Lip Sheer and Gina Magnifica Eyeshadow Compact ~ Leave it to this iconic mineral makeup line to continue offering exquisite products that complement all skin tones and seasons with gorgeous colors that go from subtle to glam.  The Gina Magnifica Eyeshadow Compact is a quad of colors that reveals nature’s best, and include a Matte Taupe, Cream, Peach, and Deep Earth; colors can be worn alone, used as an eyeliner, highlighter, or can be combined to create a custom look.  The Duo Lip Crayon is stunning in the color Luscious; one end is for lining and the other end for filling in color; or, use with a sheer gloss and add just a hint of beautiful color; comes with its own sharpener, another plus.  The Baci-Baci Moisturizing Lip Sheer in the color Olo, the season’s most effective neutral that can be worn alone to drench lips with hydration with the therapeutic ingredient properties ingredients like vitamins A, C and E, flower extracts, and collagen; pairs nicely with the Duo Lip Crayonhttp://www.labelladonna.com

~ Seasonal Tips ~

Skincare ~ Gentle exfoliation is key to sloughing off dead skin cells, but be careful not to exfoliate too often, or use too-aggressive a product, or use a “heavy-handed” motion.  These “no-no’s” can easily irritate and even scratch the gentle facial tissue.  While the body naturally sloughs off dead skin cells every twenty-eight days, there’s nothing wrong with helping the process along with a gentle exfoliation product periodically.  Exfoliation isn’t needed daily, which can contribute to stimulating oil production and lead to breakouts.  Exfoliating too often also leads to drying out the skin and causing more irritation and sensitivity.

Body Care ~ Make sure to start your morning routine with a dry brushing.  With a circular motion, begin brushing at the feet and work your way upward, towards the heart.  Not only will this help stimulate circulation, it also aids in sloughing off dry skin cells.  Dry brushing is ideal prior to showering; towel dry, leaving skin slightly damp, and then slather on a moisturizer.

Color ~ Adding a pop of fresh color always enhances, while accentuating natural beauty.  The color palette for spring is fresh, subtle, and airy, and transitions nicely from the darkness of winter into the awakening brightness of spring.

~ In Closing ~

Be on the lookout for my upcoming feature articles that continue the spring theme…“Spring Lifestyle Transitioning Tips” and “More Spring/Summer Finds”. 

That’s it for this edition.  Until the next one, remember to take care of yourself and those you love.

By Terry Herman

TERRY HERMAN is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In the 1990s, she authored an extensive "Glossary of Spa Terminologies" and holds two copyright registrations.  Consumer and trade publications have also interviewed her as an expert.  She also conducted an extensive nationally broadcasted interview tour on aspects of creating an at-home spa, interior design, music, stress and time management.  Her work has been published extensively in print and digital in both consumer and trade publications.  In addition to writing, reviewing and being interviewed as an expert, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also served on the International Advisory Board for the former EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness; the Advisory Board was comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also served as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  Her social media outreach includes Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Tripatini.  Be sure to read her food, wine and culinary digital magazine, TERRY’S SECOND HELPINGS.  Don’t forget to “Like” her Facebook Page, “Terry’s Second Helpings”.  You can email her at terrysspabeautywellness@gmail.com, or terry.herman@gmail.com.

ALL MATERIALS COPYRIGHT PROTECTED

(Introductory photo credit, www.thehighlineomaha.com; all others as represented by the specific brand.)