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Choosing Massage Therapy for Self-Care
Daily we hear all the buzz about “self-care” and the importance of health and wellness, but what about massage therapy? The constant scroll on social media viewing the hottest fitness trends, green drinks, and beauty treatments with the promise of a better you. We are inundated with tips and tricks on how to be well. How is that going for you? Are you taking the time to incorporate self-care activities into your routine?
Perhaps it is time to consider massage therapy.
What was once considered a luxury experience by many is now accepted as a basic need for wellbeing. More people are choosing to add it to their monthly maintenance health plan as research proves the positive impact. According to experts at the Mayo clinic “massage is generally considered part of complementary and integrative medicine. It’s increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations.”
Massage helps to loosen the muscles allowing increased blood flow, improvement of circulation and lymphatic system, as well as improve sleep, decrease pain, and increased flexibility, to name a few. When pressure is applied to the body, the skin’s nerve cells signal the brain to release endorphins, our “feel-good happy” chemicals that boost a natural high and positive mindset.
Studies of the benefits of massage demonstrate that it is an effective treatment for:
- reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
- minimizing fatigue
- improving flexibility
- releasing toxins
- improved circulation
- rebuilding immunities
- decreasing inflammation
- alleviating symptoms of chronic pain
Here are a couple of examples of massage therapy treatments and benefits:
Essentials Fusion Experience
Experienced as one of the world’s best massage techniques. Essential Fusion serves as a detox using herbal infused poultices and select Thai stretches. It provides relaxation with the warmth of heated stones and the rocking and rolling of Lomi Lomi techniques. Then hydrate with a warm cocooning wrap while receiving a scalp massage with Shirodhara oils.
Shirodhara
An Ayurvedic treatment to balance and stabilize the mind and induce extreme relaxation. A soothing, steady stream of warmed herbal-infused oil is poured over the forehead and sixth chakra. This purifying treatment melts tension and calms the nervous system.
Want to learn more?
At Essentials Medispa & Salon, in our state-of-the-art facility, we have licensed massage therapists that are well-trained, specialized, and experienced in a wide assortment of massage services. With contemporary and ancient techniques, from prenatal massage, aromatherapy, deep tissue, athletic rubs, to couple’s massage, we have something for everyone.
If you are ready to experience the benefits of massage, engage in your self-care journey, or simply want to indulge in a luxuriating and relaxing experience, consider a massage treatment at Essentials Medispa & Salon.
What is Leptin resistance?
Leptin resistance may be a leading cause of weight gain and a primary reason why we have difficulty losing weight.
Leptin is a type of hormone produced by our bodies fat cells. This hormone works with the hypothalamus in our brain to tell us when we’ve had enough to eat to allow our bodies to burn excess calories. The more fat we carry inside our cells, the more leptin they produce which signals your brain to eat less. When our fat cells produce lower levels of leptin, our brain signals us to eat more. It is a type of negative feedback loop system similar to how we breathe, regulate blood pressure, and regulate body temperature.
Naturally, people who are overweight and obese have a lot of body fat stored in their cells. Their levels of leptin hormone are very high. It would make sense that an individual who has excess body fat would limit their food intake because they have plenty of excess calories stored. In this case, leptin signaling (through the negative feedback loop) may not be working. The brain sometimes will not recognize high levels of leptin. This is a condition known as leptin resistance. When your brain doesn’t receive the signals given by leptins your body responds oppositely. Your body is telling you to go into “starvation mode” therefore you start to eat more, and your energy level decreases. This leads to reduced calorie expenditure. Some causes of leptin resistance are obesity, chronic inflammation, poor diet, lack of exercise, or lack of sleep.
If you’re concerned you have leptin resistance, here at Essentials Medispa and Salon, our nutritionist can help you focus on an overall healthy lifestyle to reverse diet-induced leptin resistance. Essentials Medispa and Salon offers nutrition visits in conjunction with (BHRT) Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, our Lypoburn weight loss program, or an overall Wellness plan.
*Results may vary from person to person
How important is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for the production of red blood cells, nerves, DNA, and weight loss. Vitamin B12 plays an essential role in cellular health by aiding in the formation of new red blood cells called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin can then help transport oxygen from your lungs to your muscles and vital organs such as your brain and lungs. Another essential role of vitamin B12 is the metabolism of macronutrients and micronutrients. It is a coenzyme needed for the metabolism and absorption of these nutrients which are required to carry out cellular functions.
Vitamin B12 is not manufactured by our bodies, but it can be found in foods like meat, eggs, poultry, dairy products, and fortified grains. If we aren’t eating these types of foods regularly, we are unable to reach our daily recommended dosage. Certain conditions may interfere with the absorption of B12, specifically digestive diseases such as celiac or Crohn’s disease.
The most common side effects of vitamin B12 deficiency are weight gain, lack of energy, and feeling weak or fatigued. Vitamin B12 deficiency also has an impact on our nervous system as well. Long term vitamin B12 deficiencies can cause confusion, memory loss, feelings of depression, and numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. Research shows that long term deficiencies of vitamin B12 can also lead to heart disease, Alzheimer’s, anemia, infertility, and other unwanted conditions.
It’s always important to supplement B12 from outside sources such as over the counter supplements or injections. Recommended daily allowances of Vitamin B12 range from 25mcg up to 1,000 mcg for more severe deficiencies.
Here at Essentials Medispa and Salon with offer Vitamin B12 injections as single service, add-on to any service, or purchased as a package of five.
*Results may vary from person to person
The Low Down on Brazilians with Nara, Master Waxer at Essentials MediSpa and Salon
So many people are curious about Brazilian waxing, or Boyzilian waxing for men, and at one time or another the idea of whether or not to get this treatment will probably cross your mind. Some individuals tend to be both curious and embarrassed when contemplating Brazilian waxing, and this can make it difficult to get accurate answers. I can help to eliminate embarrassment and curiosity in this very candid blog about Brazilian wax procedures.
Growing up in a Brazilian household and working as a professional Master Waxer five days a week at Essentials MediSpa and Salon has provided me with more than enough experience in this area of expertise.
Part of being raised in a Brazilian household included my mother heating up a green block of the most foul-smelling wax you could imagine on a regular basis. We would use it to wax our eyebrows, upper lips, under arms, legs, and yes…our “Brazilians.” Simply put, it was part of our culture. Over the years many people have asked, “Why do they call it a Brazilian?” And my reply is always, “Have you ever seen what Brazilian people where at the beach?” Therefore, starting from a young age I was very accustomed to this procedure and didn’t think twice about it. So, to put your mind at ease I’m going to go over the most common questions that I am asked:
Which parts on the bikini area get waxed when you get a Brazilian (for both men and women)?
It depends on the client. More than likely when this service is booked it will be a full wax on both the front and back. Some prefer to leave a little more on the front, which easily can be accomplished.
Does it hurt?
It is a tolerable pain and usually takes less than an hour. Keep in mind that everyone’s pain tolerance is different. However, for most people that are being waxed for the first time tell me that they were very surprised it didn’t hurt as badly as they initially thought it would. This can also be credited to the fact that I have been waxing for over 25 years, so there’s a tremendous amount of experience that I bring to the table (literally). In addition, we use a hard wax that is top notch for this procedure that is also infused with essential oils from France. Don’t worry, I promise I won’t subject you to the stinky wax my mom used on us.
Does waxing make the hair grow back thicker?
No. Keep in mind, that if you shave or use a cream for hair removal, it is only removing the hair on the surface of the skin. Those hairs will continue to grow back thicker and pricklier. When waxing , the hair is pulled from beneath the skin. This means that over time, and with regular waxing treatments, clients find that the hair grows back softer and thinner.
How often is it necessary to get waxed?
I advise most clients to wax every 4-5 weeks. If you shave on a regular basis and want to book an appointment, wait at least 3 weeks. This way, the hair is long enough to guarantee that most of it will be removed with the wax. It is better to have longer hair than shorter when you wax for the first time.
If you still have any reservations about getting a full Brazilian or Boyzilian for the first time, you can ease yourself into it by booking a “bikini” wax, and then the “teeny bikini” wax. After that a “quickie Brazilian,” which is everything in the front, but nothing from the back. This is the best way to slowly work your way to a full Brazilian. Of course, you can always book a free consult with me at Essentials MediSpa and Salon to go over these options and which is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
How does CBD oil work?
Available Now At Essentials MediSpa & Salon
CBD is the abbreviation used for cannabidiol, which is a compound extracted from the cannabis plant. By diluting the extract with an oil, such as coconut or hemp seed, CBD can be used for therapeutic use. Even though CBD is derived from the cannabis plant, it does not contain THC (the psychoactive compound that is found in marijuana). Just as many flower families include several variations, there are different forms of hemp in which these compounds derive. CBD oil can provide therapeutic relief in many forms, with many individuals reporting feeling healthier in areas of sleep, appetite and digestion, mood, immune function, pain, motor control, as well as pleasure and reward centers in the brain. Essentials MediSpa & Salon has the distinguished ability to serve clients on a variety of levels, now adding CBD oils to the list.
So many have asked, “How does CBD oil work?” Well, after several decades of research scientists have discovered that the mammalian body and brain house an endocannabinoid system (ECS) with specific receptors located in the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive tract, immune system, and endocrine system. This is a unique communication system within the body that affect many functions, including how a person may react, think, and move. It is similar to a lock and key model with two primary receptor points. The first primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1 and the second is CB2, both functioning as lock models. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids are specialized keys that unlock the possibilities of the ECS, and strive for optimal balance, or homeostasis, within the body and brain.
Interestingly, humans do have the ability to synthesize endocannabinoids, especially through our diet; Omega-3 fatty acids can assist the body with production of endocannabinoids. However, some factors, including diet deficiencies or poor enzyme function, can throw the ECS out of equilibrium. This can possibly cause unpleasant or exacerbated symptoms in daily life. Fortunately, there are multiple delivery methods in which an individual can receive CBD oil products, whereas some supplements are limited and can eliminate a population of individuals based on that fact. Here at Essentials MediSpa & Salon we offer one of the top five brands of CBD products in the country called Elixinol. This Colorado based provider stands out as one of the best in their “field” due to the care that is put into each bottle produced. Overseeing production from seed to consumer, anything that is short of perfection is discarded, maintaining consistency and a highly regarded reputation for CBD products. Elixinol products are located in the Essentials MediSpa & Salon boutique, hosting a variety of delivery methods and serving sizes. Knowledgeable spa consultants are here to assist you with any questions you have, including recommendations for products to suit your individual needs.
So many have asked, “How does CBD oil work?” Well, after several decades of research scientists have discovered that the mammalian body and brain house an endocannabinoid system (ECS) with specific receptors located in the brain, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive tract, immune system, and endocrine system. This is a unique communication system within the body that affect many functions, including how a person may react, think, and move. It is similar to a lock and key model with two primary receptor points. The first primary cannabinoid receptor is CB1 and the second is CB2, both functioning as lock models. CB1 receptors are abundant in the central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more often found on immune cells, in the gastrointestinal tract, and in the peripheral nervous system. Endocannabinoids are specialized keys that unlock the possibilities of the ECS, and strive for optimal balance, or homeostasis, within the body and brain.
Interestingly, humans do have the ability to synthesize endocannabinoids, especially through our diet; Omega-3 fatty acids can assist the body with production of endocannabinoids. However, some factors, including diet deficiencies or poor enzyme function, can throw the ECS out of equilibrium. This can possibly cause unpleasant or exacerbated symptoms in daily life. Fortunately, there are multiple delivery methods in which an individual can receive CBD oil products, whereas some supplements are limited and can eliminate a population of individuals based on that fact. Here at Essentials MediSpa & Salon we offer one of the top five brands of CBD products in the country called Elixinol. This Colorado based provider stands out as one of the best in their “field” due to the care that is put into each bottle produced. Overseeing production from seed to consumer, anything that is short of perfection is discarded, maintaining consistency and a highly regarded reputation for CBD products. Elixinol products are located in the Essentials MediSpa & Salon boutique, hosting a variety of delivery methods and serving sizes. Knowledgeable spa consultants are here to assist you with any questions you have, including recommendations for products to suit your individual needs.
The Spa – Not Just for Women Anymore
A trip to the spa is one of the best ways to have a great time, but boys, you can get in on the fun, too. The spa, once thought of as a women’s retreat, is starting to see quite the diversified guest list. From women of all ages, teens, couples, and men. Yes, men. Men taking a trip to the spa is the new norm. According to the International Spa Association, 47 percent of spa clientele are men, compared to 31 percent just a decade ago. Nothing to do with men getting in touch with their feminine side or the return of Queer Eye on Netflix, men simply deserve a little pampering too. Below are five med spa services that every man should try.
In a professional setting, it’s important to keep a neat appearance. No need for the fancy stuff; a quick manicure provides necessary filing, a flash massage, and a nail buff. Soar through presentations and shake everyone’s hand with confidence. Chronic nail-biter? Keeping well-manicured nails can help you quit that habit.
It isn’t about soaking in bubbles and picking out a colorful polish. Pedicures have a lot of therapeutic qualities that can be particularly beneficial for men. If you work on your feet or are athletic, your feet can be quite sore. They may also develop calluses, skin rashes, athlete’s foot or just hurt. Keeping an eye on them is essential. Regularly taking care of your piggies is a great way to do that.
A facial is a specialized cleaning and restoring treatment that deep-cleanses and conditions your skin to restore smoothness and suppleness. Facials can help enhance the skin’s moisture and elasticity, giving you a smooth and healthy complexion. Don’t consider it high maintenance, just maintenance. A professional can clean your face much better than you can. Men generally have coarser skin, larger pores and more oil on their faces, leaving them with an extra need for some skin TLC. Getting regular facials can also help you achieve that perfect shave!
Nothing relaxes the body as thoroughly as a professional massage. It can help reduce knots, relieve stress, chronic pain and lower blood pressure. If you are lucky enough to not need help with any of these issues, don’t worry, massages still feel amazing. When performed regularly, they can help reduce the chance of developing these problems. There are a wide variety of techniques used; some can even restore circulation of oxygen to alleviate repetitive head and neck pain.
IV drip therapy isn’t just for celebrities anymore. Anyone can utilize this life-altering experience with just a little drip. It’s a great way to maintain optimum health. The list of health benefits is endless. There are a variety of cocktails that each have their own strengths. IV drips can improve mental clarity, fatigue, immunity and the best hangover cure you will ever try.
Whether you’re a businessman or construction worker, there is something for everyone at a medical spa. So, put your “I’m too manly” mentality behind you, and make a date at the spa. You won’t regret it!