VITAMIN D: Natures Anti-Depressant

     Vitamin D is a nutrient found in very few foods, added to others and available as a supplement. It is fat soluble meaning it is essential for your health and stored in your liver but does not need to be replaced everyday like water soluble vitamins. It is produced endogenously (from within) when skin is directly exposed to the sun, and most people meet at least some of their vitamin D needs this way. Skin exposed to sunshine indoors through a window will not produce vitamin D. Cloudy days, shade, and having dark-colored skin also cut down on the amount of vitamin D the skin makes. 

     Despite the importance of the sun to vitamin D synthesis, it is prudent to limit exposure of skin to sunlight in order to lower the risk for skin cancer. When out in the sun for more than a few minutes, wear protective clothing and apply sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or more. Tanning beds also cause the skin to make vitamin D, but pose increased risks for skin cancer. 

    Research has suggested the Vitamin D is a neuroactive steriod, a chemical that is targeted by certain SSRI (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor) antidepressants. A lack of Vitamin D can negatively affect the transport of Dopamine. This may explain the prevalence of depression in the winter, particularly in regions that receive less direct sunlight (Vancouver!!).

     Vitamin D is required for your body's use of calcium and phosphorous. It helps to form and maintain teeth and bones, and increases the amount of calcium that your small intestines absorbs. Vitamin D has other roles in the body including modulation of cell growth, neuromusclular and immune function, and reduction of inflammation. Muscles need it to move and the immune system needs it to fight off invading bacteria and viruses. Together with calcium it helps to protect older adults from osteoporosis. 

     Very few foods naturally have vitamin D. Fortified foods provide most of the vitamin D in North American diets.

• Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are among the best sources. 
• Beef liver, cheese, and some egg yolks provide small amounts. 
• Mushrooms provide some vitamin D. 
• Almost all North American milk supply is fortified with vitamin D but foods made from milk, like cheese and ice cream, are usually not fortified. 
• Vitamin D is added to many breakfast cereals and to some brands of orange juice, yogurt, margarine, and soy beverages; check the labels.

 

Product Profile: Aruhndara

I recently just started working part time in this cute little waxing studio called Bare Wax Bar in Vancouver. We specialize in waxing, facials and massage. This little hidden gem has phenomenal prices and I work with two other highly skilled estheticians who, like me, have an amazing reputation in Vancouver because of their waxing skills.

We all know how much I love Dermalogica, so it's a great fit that this is our main product line but I recently just got introduced to a skincare line that I had never heard of before: Aruhndara

Aruhndara is a natural and organic product line from Thailand. They use vitamin e as their natural preservative so the shelf life of an unopened product is about a year and once open 6 months (which when using skin care products regularly, is plenty of time to finish the product). They use a blend of Seven Thai flowers in all the products: Sacred Lotus, Sarapee, Bakula, Jasmine, Bunnag, Ylang Ylang and Champaka. 

Needless to say, these product smell absolutely AMAZING. I'm totally obsessed. Best for dehydrated, dry and mature skin types, or those who are looking for anti-aging and hydration. Aruhndara's philosophy is based on three core concepts: 1.) The Asian secret of beauty and youth 2.) Holistic Knowledge & 3.) Power of nature.  

There are 2 cleansers: 

Seven Pollen Face Cleansing oil - This cleansing oil is great for any skin type but specifically a drier, more mature skin. Oil attracts oil, so it's great for those who wear a little more make up and it's FANTASTIC at removing anything waterproof. 

Seven Pollen Face Cleansing Water - A unique, no foam formula leaving your skin purified and hydrated. Great for a combination skin or any one who is 'oil-phobic'

The only toner in the line - Seven Pollen Face Balancing essence. Anti oxidant Pomegranate water infused with the Seven Pollen extract, corrects pH imbalances in the skin improving moisture content and preps the skin for optimal absorption of moisturizers and serums.

Exfoliant: Seven Pollen Face Detox Mask Set - Mixing 8-10 pumps of Pollen honey concentrate (extreamly healing and nourishing for the skin) with the Seven Pollen Mask Powder. Apply to skin avoiding eyes and mouth for 10 - 15 minutes (or until dry - this will draw out impurities). Once dry, add water to moisten the product and gently rub off in circular motions. Use a warm towel to remove any residual product.

Seven Pollen Organic Face Serum - this beautiful, silky smooth, vitamin rich, nourishing serum is to die for! Left my skin feeling soft, hydrated and radiant. Lets not forget to mention the scent is just lovely.

Seven Pollen Organic Face Cream -  This super hydrating, anti-aging face creams' main attribute is germinated rice which helps to stimulate natural skin process of collagen and elastin regeneration. It protects and repairs the skin without leaving an oily residue.

I like these products for several reasons, first and foremost, they smell amazing! I know that in my experience, if a product smells good, I am more inclined to use it which makes me a little more diligent about my skin care regime. Second, I love this line because it is SIMPLE. There is nothing more annoying then having more then 3 steps to you skin care routine.  I get overwhelmed which too many products and I've been in this industry almost 9 years! And last but not least, this is a very effective line leaving my skin feeling clean, hydrated and nourished. 

There is a store located in Yaletown that sells these products exclusively and we are the only spa in Vancouver to use Aruhndara - Seven Pollen Face Spa Ritual facial. You can also follow the link below to read more about the products. 

http://www.aruhndara.com/ 

Benefits of Epsom Salts

Magnesium is used in our body to regulate over 325 enzymes and organized bodily functions such as muscle control, electrical impulses, energy production and elimination of harmful toxins.  A diet high in fat, sugar, salt and protein actually works to speed up the depletion of magnesium from our bodies. Soaking in an epsom salt bath is one of the easiest ways to get a magnesium boost as it is easily absorbed by the skin.

Benefits of taking an epsom salt bath include:

- Improved heart and circulatory health (blood pressure, regulating heart contractions)

- Improved ability for the body to use insulin

• - Flushed toxins and heavy metals from the cells, easing muscle pain and helping the body to eliminate harmful substances (This is highly recommended after a massage, particularly after a deep tissue massage)
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• - Improved nerve function by electrolyte regulation. Also, calcium is the main conductor for electrical current in the body, and magnesium is necessary to maintain proper calcium levels in the blood
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• - Relieved stress
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• - Reduced inflammation to relieve pain and muscle cramps (Great post-workout)
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• - Improved oxygen use
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• - Improved absorption of nutrients
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• - Prevention or easing of migraine headaches

  Add two cups of Epsom salt and soak for at least 15 minutes. 

If you are pregnant or have any health concerns, check with your doctor before using Epsom salts.