The Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone massage is a perfect way to relax, undergoing deep exfoliation, it will leave your body feeling totally calm and rejuvenated. If you have had a hard day, want to plan a girls spa weekend, a couples retreat or just want to try something different, then a hot stone massage is definitely for you.  Here's what a hot stone massage entails. 

Smooth heated stones are placed on the body or used in the massage process, either as an extension of their own hands, or by placing them on the body while they massage other parts of the body. The heat can be both deeply relaxing and help warm up tight muscles so the therapist can work more deeply and quickly.

The massage technique has been used throughout the ages, and stems from Native America. Hot stones were originally used by the Native Americans as a way to treat aching muscles. As stones retain their heat for quite a while, they would put them on the fire and would massage each other as they believed the process had healing properties.  This technique was trademarked years later by a woman native to Arizona - Mary Nelson, making it an official form of treatment. From this word soon spread and now all types and variations of this massage are widely available.   

Be sure to speak up if the stones are too warm or the pressure too intense. And you can always ask them to stop using the stones if you don't like how it feels.  If you like heat but not the stones, lava shells and steamed towels are another way to get heat into a massage.  Here are the benefits of a hot stone massage.

• Lymphatic Drainage and Cleansing

The Lymphatic System is a secondary circulatory system in our body. The hot stone massage promotes the returning of water and proteins from tissues into our bloodstream.

• Decongestion of the Liver

The massage helps relax the ducts in the liver, promoting easier flow.

• Relaxes the Colon

This aids digestion, and smooth bowel movements.

• Detoxifies the Blood

This is achieved through the process of sweating, and has the same effect that a sauna would have. It also has many circulatory benefits.

• Relaxes Muscles and Decreases Stress

The massage promotes flexibility in the body by relieving built up tension.

• Relief from Certain Pain Conditions

Arthritis and carpal tunnel are just two conditions that hot stone massage can help with pain relief.  

There are many different spas and outlets that offer hot stone massage and similar treatments.  One specific spa that offers this treatment is the Eden Hall Day Spa. They offer a large range of treatments from massages to facials. The hot stone massage is a calming, authentic and extremely soothing treatment, make sure you book in for the experience.  

Bookmark or share

ModiFace - The Virtual Make Over App

Virtual makeovers are a great way to makeover or update your look.  It helps you see what you would look like before you make the change and you're stuck with something you don't like, not to mention all the money it takes just to change your look.  Modiface is the top makeover app with patented technology that powers over 100 web and mobile apps, more than 25+ million mobile downloads and half a billion virtual makeovers!

ModiFace has worked with over 30 top brands and publications, including Vogue, Stila Cosmetics, Conde Nast, ProActive and Garnier.  What I love about this app is you can try virtually any brand, to see if you like it before you spend money.  This state of the art makeover tool (which you can see here, allows users to upload their own photo or pick a model and try on thousands of different makeup products, skincare effects, hair and nail styles.  Some natural brands include: Stila, Jane Iredale and Pur Minerals.

Check out the ModiFace app for yourself to try out different products and styles and let me know what you think.  You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.  The app is free to download in the Apple iTunes store.  So try it, you never know what will look good on you until you try.


Bookmark or share

10 Uses for Organic Argan oil

Are you curious about organic Argan oil, but not sure how to use it or thought maybe it's a waste of money because it looks so expensive? Argan oil is one of my favorite multitasking, natural wonders to moisturize my face, body and hair at home or on the go.  If you want your skin to be healthy, hydrated and glowing, this is definitely the natural product for you!  A-list celebrities, hair stylists, beauty experts and everyone in between love Argan oil as soon as they try it.  Why else would be there such an Argan oil craze?  It's the best way to moisturize your face, body and hair and even your baby too!  Here are 10 ways to use nature's miracle wonder oil, the New York Times deemed "liquid gold".  

1. Facial Moisturizer

After cleansing, apply a few drops of argan oil directly onto your face and neck. Since Argan is a dry oil, it absorbs quickly and won't clog pores or cause breakouts.  To use as a serum, add it as a booster to your day / night cream, conditioner, ect.  

2. Hydrating Toner 

Add a few drops of argan oil to your favorite facial toner to hydrate and tone simultaneously.  Tip: Make your own toner by adding a few drops of argan oil to Rose or Orange Blossom water!

3. Rejuvenating and Brightening Facial Mask

Add a few drops of organic Argan oil to a facial mask.  Or make your own mask by mixing 1 tablespoon of organic lemon juice, 3 teaspoons of organic Greek-style yogurt, 1 tablespoon of raw honey and 3 drops of organic Argan oil in a bowl. Apply on a clean, dry face and leave on for 10 minutes.  Rinse with warm water.

4. Exfoliating Lip Scrub and Moisturizer

To smooth and moisturize your lips, add a few drops of organic Argan oil and organic vanilla extract to fine organic brown sugar. Lightly massage into lips using circular motion and rinse off.

5. Face Glow

Add a drop or two of organic Argan oil to your foundation, bronzer or tinted moisturizer for a dewy, luminous glow!  You can do the same with a tinted body lotion.

6. Leave-in Conditioner

After the shower, while your hair is still wet, add a few drops of argan oil to your hair, ends and scalp to hydrate and moisturize. It’s especially nourishing if your hair is dry from daily use of a blow dryer, straight-iron or curling iron.  Your hair will be beautifully shiny, silky and just glow! :)

7. Hair Serum 

When your hair is dry, use as a styling product by adding a few drops of organic Argan oil to the palms of your hand.  Rub your hands together and run your fingers through your hair to create shine and tame frizz. You only need a small amount to make a big difference.

8. Overnight Hair Treatment 

Massage a generous amount of organic Argan oil into your hair, ends and scalp. Wrap your hair and leave it on while you sleep. In the morning, wash your hair and you’ll have luminous, soft locks.

9. Cuticle and Heel Softener 

Massage a few drops of argan oil into your cuticles to soften, moisturize and encourage nail growth. Use as an overnight treatment to nourish cracked heels by working a good amount into your feet and toes. Cover with socks and wake up to supple, soft feet.

10. Body and Bath Oil – Add a few drops of organic Argan oil directly onto your wet skin, into the bath or in your body lotion. It’s safe to use on your baby and helps minimize stretch marks on Mom's pregnant belly too.

You can find organic Argan oil at Sephora online and instores or at www.josiemarancosmetics.com.  

Do you have more uses for organic Argan oil?  If so, leave a comment with your favorite ways to use this miracle oil.

Bookmark or share