Mamuna Arshad
WITH A REPUTATION FOR RESULTS
COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY CLINIC
Merry Christmas
> NOVEMBER 2015
Get Writing.....!
Creative writing is good for our mental and physical wellbeing. It can declutter our thoughts, help us to heal and allows us to gain a better understanding of ourselves and those around us.
Try this:
Not sure how to begin writing? Start with a simple exercise and write a short tale. Perhaps you can travel back in time and put pen to paper about an experience you’ve had. Choose to write about your first love, the first book you read, the old lady that lived on the corner that barely spoke, except on a Sunday or the local vicar with a hidden past! Whatever your subject, make sure you are able to capture every detail.
The Art of scribing thoughts and feelings gives us an opportunity to reflect on our own unique sense of our relevance and place within our family, Community and the world.
Once you feel a little more confident, your subject may develop……You may want to start with an intriguing object and its significance in the world today, an artefacts of great value or a political coup!
Most writers, essentially write for their own pleasure as it offers a therapeutic way of exercising and shaping their inner beliefs and struggles and yes it is true we all have tens of thousands of novels within us…..so get writing.
Make sure you:
- Plan the layout of your story e.g. characters, location etc.
- Devise a strategy and stay motivated.
- Gain momentum and don t lose sight of the story.
> OCTOBER 2015
No Garlic necessary!
Don’t be surprised if you spot more than a few nightly ghouls this Halloween.
Adults these days seem to adopt the Vampire look without trying with dark circles around their eyes and lack of sleep due to work and family stresses. Staying up late and constantly trying to submit that one last final email and/or report before the day ends can feel like an anchor to the soul.
Studies show that using our smartphones and tablets are taking their toll on our health, lifestyle and outlook in life. As easy as it sounds putting a curfew on our time spent on things that are impacted on our personal life can wait till the following day.
Invest your time well this October and concentrate on yourself by improving your quality of life. Go for a health check, boost your vitamin intake, get a new hobby, plan more family days out and take the time to appreciate what really matters.
> SEPTEMBER 2015
The Art of Colouring in …
Finally got the kids back to school…
feeling like you need a new start to the Autumn season?
Try ditching the old with new techniques to relieve the stress in your life. Most of us have all the intentions of taking better care of ourselves but lose our drive to put this into motion. With so many external day to day stresses it’s no wonder we feel like we are comprised.
Most of us have an outlet when it comes to stress, whether it is a creative hobby, yoga or going to the gym. Though these are helpful in so many ways; they can also (sometimes) just feel like another thing to do.
Clearing our schedule to find the time can also be an exhausting exercise when confronted with other commitments.
Like most things finding new things to do can be challenging, however you too can bring back your Zen with a mindless yet enjoyable past time.
Try the new wave trend of the art of Adult colouring. Colouring books are all the new rage at the moment and are a wonderful antidote to stress.
Colouring in allows us to focus and engross us into a pensive state whereby, just for a few minutes or so…we are blissfully happy.
> AUGUST 2015
Summer Solutions
Finally the summer is here…cue lazy days in the sun. This time of the year can appear to be idyllic. However, there are always underlying health concerns.
Long days basking in the sun are fabulous for your spirit but not so great for your health, if you are not sun savvy!
From picking up a nasty tummy bug or simply suffering from heat exhaustion, the following are my tips on combatting common holiday spoilers.
The power of the Vit C ........
Skin Protection - Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that helps to combat on any free radical cell damage caused to the skin due to excessive sun exposure. Vitamin C also has astonishing wound healing capabilities and can help to prevent long term sun exposure which can potentially lead to skin cancer.
Safeguard your Health - For most people summer holidays are ruined by tummy bugs that result in painful stomach cramps and frequent trips to the bathroom. Vitamin C is a powerful weapon our body utilises to offer us immunity to bugs and viruses. It is therefore essential to top up vitamin C throughout the summer, especially if you’re planning a trip abroad.
Energy Boost! As well as looking after your skin and supporting your immune system, Vitamin C plays an important measure in generating energy in the body. It is part of an intricate mechanism in the body that aids the transport of nutrients to our cells.
Take a deep breath and De-stress - Stress is thought to reduce our levels of vitamin C significantly. Nobody wants to allow feelings of stress and anxiety to spoil a well-deserved/earned break so make sure that Vitamin C is top of your list!
Don't Forget.....!
Heat Exhaustion - symptoms of heat exhaustion can include extreme fatigue, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and sweating heavily. If it isn't treated it can progress to heat stroke and in extreme cases can cause severe brain damage or death. Make sure that you drink plenty of fluids to replace lost body salts.
> JULY 2015
Last minute attempt at
Beach Beautiful?
If youhaven’t got weeks for beach perfection, try the following last minute programme for instant results instead!
Expel cellulite - Dry body brushing is great for stimulating the blood circulation and encouraging the body to get rid of toxins.
- Dry body brushing should always be done before showering so you can wash off any impurities afterwards. Use long, sweeping strokes and light pressure.
Applying fake tan is a must before you hit the beach as it will make your body look healthy and instantly boost your confidence.
- Before applying fake tan it is important to exfoliate your skin to ensure you achieve an even look. Apply the tan like you would a body moisturiser; once your skin is dry, apply a little body lotion to your elbows, knees, heels and ankles to help prevent these areas from developing a darker tan than the rest of your skin.
Hair Care- Summer beach hair is an opportunity to get creative and try something new!
- Try going for a boho wavy look, by using either TRESemme (un)done or Kérastase Oleo-CurlD’Huile which both help to nourish dry, unruly hair whilst redefining natural soft waves.
- A very on-trend slicked ponytail always works well and is easily achieved. Start by applying a good leave in conditioner before going out in the sun and comb through the lengths and ends.
Beat the belly Bloat - It’s amazing how quickly you can slim a bloated stomach if you watch what you eat the day before you hit the beach.
- Cut out gassy foods such as refined carbohydrates and hard-to-digest foods. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and eat lightly.
- Try a power smoothie, as it is easy for your body to digest and will keep cravings at bay as well as increasing your energy levels!
Own it! Wear something you feel comfortable.
- Don’t be tricked into following the latest fashion trends.
- Always opt for swimwear that compliments your body.
Enjoy yourself! Focus on feeling good about yourself.
Even though time has run out for diet and exercise regimes all is not lost! Treatments to try!
- Body Polish - this renews the skins firmness and provides noticeable healing and regenerative benefits.
- Wrap - Shift weight in minutes by gently removing toxins. You are actually guaranteed to lose inches as well as softening your skin.
- Detox Massage - The combination of pressure points and sensory points in the stomach and legs aids the breakdown of fatty tissues, stimulates a sluggish circulation and improves the look of cellulite.
> JUNE 2015
SUMMER SKIN HEALTHCARE
Recently, the return of warmer weather and bright sunshine are particularly welcoming for us all. The feeling of the sun on our skin and the feel good factor that the sun generates certainly puts us Brits in a better mood.
However, catching some rays and soaking up the heat comes at a price!
The most essential element of any skin care routine should include a quality SPF50+ sunscreen which, should be applied daily, all year round.
UVA and UVB rays can cause our collagen and elastin to break down, resulting in lines and wrinkles prematurely appearing; increasing the risk of pigmentation and possibly lesions forming that may have long term health consequences.
As well as using a SPF 50+; for clearer, brighter skin the following tips are recommended:
- A good diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and veg will provide the skin with the best nutrients.
- Sufficient hydration helps the skin to remain softer, plumper and more healthier.
As well as a commitment to making nutritional and lifestyle changes, A non-surgical approach to looking good and improving the health of your skin are at present, much sought after.
So Why not try?
Mesotherapy, this is an effective non-surgical procedures that involves a series of tiny injections of vitamins or hyaluronic acid that are carefully administered and delivered directly into the skin’s mid layer. Mesotherapy treatments nourish the skin while the injection process generates the skin’s own healing and the renewal process, firms and tightens the skin.
Chemical peels are also an effective choice, providing gentle yet effective exfoliation to remove the top layer of dead skin cells, revealing clearer brighter skin beneath. Peels can also help with reducing the effects of previous sun damage as well as smoothing away fine lines.
Whilst there are many Peels to choose from that include Organic/Fruit acid peels to mild chemical peels to those highly publicised skin peels (as seen on TV). Choosing wisely is essential to your skins healthcare.
Always consider your skin type (Fitzpatrick Scale), skin condition (dry, sensitive, combination, dry and/or problematic) and age when deciding with your skin specialist which peel is best suited to you.
Choose a practitioner who advocates integrated skin and healthcare and discuss which skin treatments best suit your skin requirements and budget.
>MAY 2015
Combat Ageing
with Ancient Remedies …
Essential oils have been around for centuries and date back to the time of the ancient Egyptians. Originally known for their healing and aromatic qualities, essential oils have becoming increasingly popular as a game changer in the Aesthetic industry.
Essential oils have the ability to plump and firm the skin, reduce cellulite and stretch marks as well as aid in slimming and toning the body.
Essential oils are a cost effective way of preventing wrinkles too, they help to rejuvenate your skin as well as slowing down the ageing process. They contain antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients that protect our skin cells from damage that are caused by free radicals, by keeping skin looking and feeling healthy.
The following recipe helps to stimulate blood flow and help to tone and lift the face muscles, creating a naturally youthful, firm and plumped complexion.
You will need to mix the following ingredients:
- 8 drops Frankincense or myrrh
- 14 drops Lavender
- 3 drops Neroli
- Add to 50ml base oil such as sweet almond oil or wheat-germ.
- Use at night and massage the face for a good five minutes
> APRIL 2015
Banish those Eye bags today....
When we’re tired and run down, the eyes are usually the first to show the tell-tale signs of ageing. For many of us the skin around the eyes are our main area of concern.
Some of the main causes behind dark circles can be heredity, working long hours, lack of sleep and an unhealthy diet to name a few.
There are many products out there including Creams, Gels and Serums. Serums have a lighter formulations and are usually the best products to use as that tend to absorb quickly and penetrate more deeply.
Investing in a good eye serum is essential within the fight against ageing as they retain moisture and improve collagen.
You may also want to try few simple and quick techniques that you can do at home to help to brighten and firm the skin around the eyes. A few select ingredients can make all the difference.
Coconut Oil - is another effective natural therapy to lighten dark circles. Its moisturising qualities encourage smooth skin and prevents fine lines wrinkles and under the eyes.
Tea Bags- Caffeine is an antioxidants and is highly cherished for getting rid of dark circles as well as puffiness under eyes.
Cold compress- help to constrict the blood vessels under the eyes and help a lot in reducing eye puffiness and dark circles.
Try the following exercise:
To help reduce puffiness, gently press your ring finger around the eye socket bone, working right to the nose.
Reduce those eye wrinkles by opening your eyes as wide you can and close them while your forehead remains still.
Try to look up and down and left and right as far as you can reach. Don’t move your head.
Repeat exercises (10-15 reps per exercise) first thing in the morning and throughout the day if needed and see the difference for yourself.
> March 2015
Female Solidarity
March 8, is International Women’s Day which focuses and celebrates all female achievements and successes.
As women move into equal positions within their personal and professional lives, there seems more of a need than ever for small groups of women to gather in each other’s homes, coffee shops and local communities to discuss various topics.
Subjects discussed for women’s equality is not just a female campaign . These subjects concern everyone to bring about awareness and to benefit everyone moving forward.
With such a diverse Ethnic Community, it is an occasion not only to discuss what’s happening within your local community, it is an opportunity and an open discussion to deliberate on a variety of issues across the world including, poverty, education, child slavery and trafficking.Women in some countries are still unable to vote and have a say on issues that influence and exercise their right on a daily basis.
Like all communities all over the world the above issues are relevant and incredibly distressing to all, including here within the UK.
Show your support....
The amount of female social gatherings that are taking place all over the country is growing. Showing that women, now more than ever are wanting to help and support each other with their friends and family.
This is a wonderful opportunity to help others. We all know how good we feel when we meet with our friends, so think how great this support is just by extending a hand of friendship.
Widening that net can really help others with their self-esteem and confidence, it can dispel loneliness and help those in need of help to seek better and more deserved relationships with others. It can also help those who are wanting to further their education to seek a better paid job or simply to expand their intellect.
We women essentially need our social gatherings with each other to remind us that we are more than capable of reaching our full potential and empowering others to help, support and to make changes for a better future.
> February 2015
Face lift alternatives
Many people start to consider having a face lift, a lot sooner than later. In today’s society the pressure to look younger has increased immensely with those opting to undergo drastic surgery.
However, there are different alternatives available to lifting and redefining the profile of the face without having to consider the surgeon’s scalpel.
It is always best to start by preventing the onset of early ageing.
Changes to your lifestyle can directly influence how your skin ages over the course of one's own life time.
Try the following preventative measures:
Apply Sun protection –UVA and UVB rays cause a break down in collagen and elastin so that lines and wrinkles appear earli SPF50+ sunscreen every day of the year (even in winter) is always recommended.
Exfoliate – Removing dead skin cells decongests the skin and improves the overall health of your skin.
Non- surgical treatments like Microdermabrasion and chemical peels are ideal treatments that offer deep exfoliation.
Lifestyle –Lack of sleep, late nights, smoking and alcohol consumption can all be harmful to the skin in the long term.
Diet –Choosing plenty of fresh fruit and veg means the skin is nourished from within. Superfoods are particularly helpful.
Hydration – Make sure you drink enough water. Dehydrated skin cause the skin to age more rapidly.
Facial massage- Exercising your facial muscles can help to keep the features more ‘lifted’ and more resistant to ageing.
Try the following Recipe for Avocado-Honey Moisturiser:
This is a popular treatment to follow and acts as an anti-aging moisturiser as it helps the skin to retain moisture and is a great alternative as a stand-in for a (temporary) filler for lines and wrinkles, it helps the complexion to look smooth and firm.
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons of fresh cream
1/4 avocado
1 tablespoon honey
Directions:
Place all three ingredients in a blender. Apply it to your skin and leave on for at least an hour. Rinse off with warm water
Happy New Year
The New Year is the perfect time to boot out old bad habits and kick start healthy regimes including starting a fresh ne look and insight on what changes you want to make this year.
Get Healthy, StayHealthy…
Yes, this year can be even healthier than the last. With life being so busy, even the idea of a health overhaul can leave us feeling nauseas, dizzy, clammy or at worst make us all want to spontaneously combust .
Small changes can make all the difference. Whether it is to quit smoking, or to join that spinning class or even to forgive and forget can make a real difference to you.
By tweaking your lifestyle during 2015 can benefit you immensely. Go on make that change!!
