• What are some of the benefits of receiving professional skin care?
• Why is it important to take care of our skin?
• What is a natural and holistic approach to skin care?
• Why is it important to use natural products?
• Why Choose Weleda?
• What is Biodynamic® Cultivation?
• What are some of the harmful ingredients to avoid in skin care products?
• What are your recommendations for having healthy skin?
• How can Lymphatic Massage help acne, rosacea and eczema?
• How does Facial Massage benefit the skin?
• What do I need to know about taking care of my skin at home?
• How can facial exercises help my skin?
• What are some simple facial exercises that can help my skin?
• What will happen during my first appointment?
• What will take place during the facial?
• What types of facials or treatments can I receive?
• What Is Healing Therapy?
• What Is Reiki?
• What Is MariEl-Reiki?
• What Is Acupressure?
• What is Jin Shin Jyutsu®?
• What is Hot Stone Therapy?
• What is Sound Therapy?

Studies show that facials significantly lower cortisol, the stress hormone.
They are both good for your skin and overall health.
Cleanses, moisturizes and nourishes the face, neck, shoulders, arms, hands and feet.
They rejuvenate, nourish and heal your skin.
Helps support and slow down premature aging of the skin.
Helps heal skin issues including rosacea, sensitive, oily or dry skin.                                                 top

Our skin is the largest organ of our body and is both a protector and conduit between us and the environment.  It is alive and organic consisting of cells, vessel, tissues, water, oil and hundred’s of building blocks. It is easy for our skin to go out of balance. On one end it can become inflamed while on the other end dry or show signs of dehydration or premature aging. Each month our skin renews itself, and duplicates itself every 24-40 days so we have the opportunity to replace and renew our skin with healthier cells. By going to a professional esthetician that offers natural products and a holistic approach to skin care you can feel safe that your will be receive the support that you need to have healthy radiant skin.          top

A natural and holistic facial skin care regime is not just about treating a particular symptom but in strengthening the skin's ability to rejuvenate and regulate itself. In this approach the whole body is considered an integral part in the health of your skin. By blending Weleda facial care, body work, and home care you are given a framework for recovery to improve and maintain your skin's harmonious balance and natural healthy appearance.

Dry or oily skin can be understood as "skin tendency" instead of something to fix. The momentary condition of the skin is an expression of the health of the whole body. When the body is subjected to certain stresses - either numerous mild influences or fewer intensive ones - it struggles to maintain its equilibrium and looses its natural balance. Skin condition then changes: it either becomes too dry and over-sensitive, or it may become too oily resulting in skin eruptions and breakouts of spots.                                                                                                                                top

Q.  Why is it important to use natural products?

As we start living a balanced and healthy lifestyle we begin to feel and look better. Our bodies respond well to good nutritional food, exercise, time in nature, rest, play and the use of natural and organic products on our skin.  Most cosmetics contain petroleum based preservatives and other harmful chemicals causing serious health risks from toxins compounded over decades of use. As our skin absorbs products it cannot filter out harmful substances from entering our tissues and organs, so healthy alternatives are not only safe to use but will benefit your overall picture of health. As we start feeding our skin and bodies products free of toxins and filled with natural and organic ingredients we will have done our best to
make wondrous changes in our internal and external health and receive the BEAUTY we deserve. top

Q.  Why Choose Weleda?

Weleda’s quality begins in nature with its ingredients. The company’s motto, “In harmony with nature and the human being,” represents an upholding of the highest quality and environmental conservation. Through every step of the value chain—from soil to product including Biodynamic® Cultivation.   All products are FREE of synthetic preservatives, fragrances, colorants and raw materials derived from mineral oils.  Additionally, animal testing is not carried out by us or by our suppliers on our behalf.  Weleda products are always Full of the highest quality, pure and natural ingredients for your body.                                                                                               top

Q. What is Biodynamic® Cultivation?

The biodynamic® method of agriculture, developed by Dr. Rudolf Steiner, the spiritual founder of Weleda, integrates the purest of all elements of our world, from the sun and the moon, to the soil and water to the animals that makeup the ecosystem of the farm. Each of these living components works in relationship to one another making a connection through the cosmos. It is with this understanding and through observations of the position and forces of the moon, planets, stars and all parts of the universe that Weleda cultivates its plants.                                                    top

Q.  What are some of the harmful ingredients to avoid in skin care products?

Everyday we use products that we think are safe, but the truth is products are NOT always safe - and manufacturers don't have to tell us so. Ever since 1938 - when the FDA granted self-regulation to the cosmetics industry - such products can be marketed without government approval of ingredients, regardless of what test show. Most of the 25,000 chemicals used have not been tested for long-term toxic effects. In a typical day, you may be exposed to over 200 chemicals, any of which are suspected of causing cancer or juggling hormones. EPA tests conclude that ingredients in shampoos, dyes, and other personal care products may be playing havoc with hormones that control reproduction and development.

Paraben: Including, Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl and Butylparabens.  Used as a preservative in cosmetics and skincare products. It is a Xenoestrogen mimicking the sex hormone estrogen and found in 90% of breast cancer that is tested.

Fragrance: Can contain up to four thousand ingredients and synthetic-chemicals (including animal urine). Can cause  headaches, dizziness, rash, hyperpigmentation, violent coughing, vomiting, skin irritation, inability to cope and other behavioral changes.

Dimethicone (silica): Harmful by skin absorption, eye irritant, skin irritant, causes tumors in lungs, thorax and endocrine system. Toxicological properties have NOT been thoroughly investigated

PEG-50 Almond Glycerieds: May contain dangerous levels of 1 4-diocane, a carcinogen.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate (coconut): Composed of 4 known carcinogens: Formaldehyde, Dioxane, Ethylene Oxide, Acetaldehyde.

Cocoamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine: Causes eyes stinging, redness and burning of skin. Toxicological properties have NOT been thoroughly investigated.

Triethanolamine (TEA): Severely irritating to body tissues. Corrosive to the eyes, reacts with nitrosating agents to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.

Methylchloroisothiazolinone: Harmful by skin absorption. Corrosive and burns the eyes and skin and can cause permanent irreversible eye damage.

Phenoxyethanol: Toxic to kidney, bladder and causes reproductive disorders, serious damage to eyes and brain degeneration.

FD&C Yellow No. 2 (coal tar dye & azo dye): Banned in Russia, Japan, Norway, Sweden and USA. It is a Teratogen associated with cancer, asthma, hyperactivity and malignant tumors.

Sodium Hydroxide: The most recent addition to personal care products. This is the same as the caustic lye found in drain cleaners. The warning label on sodium hydroxide products reads "POISON. May be fatal or cause permanent damage if swallowed. May cause blindness. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, mouth and clothing."

Alchohol Isopropyl (SD-40): Drying, irritating solvent that strips skin's moisture and immune barrier, making you vulnerable to bacteria and viruses. Promotes brown spots and premature aging. A Consumers Dictionary of Cosmetics petroleum derivative found in shellac and antifreeze as well as personal care Ingredients says it may cause headaches, flushing, dizziness, mental depression, nausea, vomiting and coma. Fatal ingested dose is one ounce or less.

Mineral Oil: Petroleum by-product that coats the skin like plastic wrap, clogging the pores. It interferes with skin's ability to eliminate toxins, promoting acne and other disorders. Slows down skin function and cell development, resulting in premature aging. Baby oil is 100% mineral oil!

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): Carcinogenic petroleum ingredient that reduces the skin's natural moisture. Increases the appearance of aging and leaves you vulnerable to bacteria. Used in spray-on oven cleansers to dissolve oil and grease.

Petrolatum: Also known as petroleum jelly. Petrochemical ingredient, manufactured from crude petroleum, used in many moisturisers, creams and lotions. Highly refined (i.e. odourless and colourless) and very cheap. Can cause skin to develop clogged pores because it suffocates the skin and prevents it from breathing. Skin and eye irritant. Ineffective as a moisturiser because of its poor absorption. Suspected carcinogen.

A few more chemicals to avoid are: Butane, Butylene Glycol, DEA, DMDM. MEA. Propane, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium, Lauryl Sulfate, TEA, Triclosan, and Urea.                                         top

Q.  What are your recommendations for having healthy skin?

1) Establish a regular home skin care regime with natural and organic products. Oil and moisture are skin essentials and, as we age, need to be restored with the help of natural and organic products.

2) Have periodic facials for deep cleansing, exfoliating, and to catalyze your home care program, anti-aging, acne and sensitive skin issues.

3) Your diet is an important element to having great skin. Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and healthy fats! Blueberries, nuts, seeds and fish or fish oils are especially beneficial. Be careful with refined sugars and carbohydrates which cause inflammation, premature aging and weight gain.

4) Drink lots of water and herbal tea. Aim for 8 cups a day to flush out toxins and get your skin glowing.

5) Take exercise and get some fresh air every day. On colder days, or if you do not have the energy, enjoy a reviving aroma therapy bath.

6) Wear mineral based sun screens to protect against skin cancer and aging.

7) Use mineral makeup without preservatives and chemicals.

8) Get your beauty sleep! At least 7 hours a night will ease dark circles and puffiness in the eye area and reduce any skin irritations or redness.                                                                  top

Lymphatic Massage is a therapeutic treatment that uses light circular strokes to increase lymphatic flow and helps drain and remove toxins from your body.

Lymph is an opaque fluid that flows around your body carrying white blood cells and antibodies to your tissues and organs. These are essential to your immune system and help you fight infection and inflammation that are often seen in skin conditions such as acne, rosacea and eczema.

Acne usually affects people at particular times in their lives especially in the teenage years. However, some people develop acne as adults regardless of the age. The causes for acne are many and varied and may be a result of poor nutrition, insufficient skin and body care, stress, toxins in the body or hormonal imbalances. Often it is a combination of factors. Trying to get all of these factors into balance and working harmoniously with each other can be difficult unless one fully understands the interdependency of them all.

Day after day toxins get dumped into our bodies through poor nutrition, lack of exercise, pollution, excess caffeine, alcohol and not enough water. Your lymphatic system's job is to flush all the toxins away and keep you healthy. In many of us this system is overloaded and its job is compromised causing our skin to be affected.

Lymphatic massage will boost the flow of lymph around your body and help it flush the toxins.

It can improve your skin by:
* Reducing swelling, puffiness and blotches.
* Helping towards supporting healthy pores.
* Speeding up healing in scar tissue.                                                                                top

Q. How does facial massage benefit the skin?

Massage has been used for pain relief and healing by people of all cultures since ancient times. Today facial massage is also used for both cosmetic improvement and beauty treatment to achieve younger looking and healthier skin.  A small amount of oil or lotion is often applied to facilitate movement over the delicate facial areas.  Pressure points or Acupressure on the face and neck are stimulated in order to release tension and stimulate your blood and lymph flow.

Benefits are:
Stimulation and cleansing of lymph which remove toxins from the skin.
Relaxation of facial and eye muscles.
Relief from tension headaches and facial pain.
Alleviation of stress and anxiety.
Overall physical and mental relaxation.
Stimulation of meridian points on the face which help balance the whole body.                        top

In addition to providing face and body treatments for personal use, skin care professionals educate clients on proper cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, and stimulating regimens for home care support between visits.  Estheticians also supply you with information on lifestyle choices, such as nutrition and exercise to further support your skin and overall health.  Having healthy skin will just take you a few minutes twice a day.

1st Cleansing: Removes oil, makeup, daily pollutants and impurities.
-Apply thin coat to face with warm water using brisk small circles all over face, neck and upper chest if possible. Gently remove with warm water or moist cotton pad. Pat dry.
Eye makeup: Apply over closed eyes gently patting not rubbing. Almond oil can also be used to remove makeup.

2nd Toning: Cleanses, balances pH of the acid mantle that protects the skin from the environment, hydrates, and assists with penetration of moisturizers sending its variety of nutrients, deeper into the skin.
-Apply with cotton pads or spray bottle. Pat face and massage gently into the skin.

3rd Moisturizing: Protects against environmental damage, dehydration, premature aging and is best applied immediately after toner to moist skin.
-Apply the cream to the fingertips and gently pat small amounts evenly around the face, neck and when possible the upper chest. Smooth over face using stroking motions.                                      top

When you exercise in a gym you can firm up your body and the same is true for your skin and the muscles in the face and neck. As your muscles and connective tissue tone, your skin tightens up and becomes more resilient and elastic as well.

Facial exercises support muscles of the face and neck, improves the skin tone, stimulates natural oils and lubricants, increases blood flow, brings nutrition and helps remove toxins from the skin.                                                                              top

Q. What are some simple facial exercises that can help my skin?

1. Forehead
Firm up your brow, place your index fingers on your forehead just above your eyelids and pull them down while trying to raise your eyebrows. Repeat 10 times.

2. Eyes
Without moving your upper eye lids, attempt to raise your lower ones. This great defense against crows feet is easier said than done. Repeat 10 times.

3. Cheeks
Push your lips out as far as possible to form an exaggerated "O" with your mouth, then smile is brightly as you can. After holding this for 1 second form the "O" shape again and hold that for 1 second. Repeat 10 times.

4. Lips
Suck on the tip of your index finger, up to the first joint, as hard as you can, slowly pulling it from your mouth. Repeat 10 times.

5. Neck and chin
Using one hand, place the index finger and thumb against the base your neck, looking straight into the mirror. Simultaneously raise your head and gently pull the skin down.
Repeat 10 times.                                                                                                        top

Q.  What will happen during my first appointment?

During your first appointment, you will fill out a questionnaire and Mariah will discuss your skin care goals and begin providing treatment based on your personal needs. First your skin is evaluated, looked at through a skin scope and then the two of you will work together to determine a course of action. This plan will likely include helpful guidance and advice about proper skin care, facials (choosing from a variety of options), a choice of products, home care, and follow-up appointments.                                                                                                                                   top

Q.  What will take place during the facial?

There are a variety of facials to choose from depending on your specific needs. All facials blend professional skin care with a foot bath, acupressure, energy balancing, massage, aroma therapy, organic and natural products. This session will not only support your skin care needs but offer deep relaxation and rejuvenation promoting healing through a whole body experience.                      top

Q.  What types of facials or treatments can I receive?

Deep Cleansing Facial

Your skin will be deeply cleansed with Weleda and Ann Marie Borlind natural products offering you a holistic approach to skin care. Soft compresses blended with aromatic bath milks warm, soothe the face and encourage exfoliation. For deeper cleansing and certain skin conditions Galvanic Current, Hi-Frequency, Brushing and the Vacuum Machines are used for an even greater cleansing process.

• Deep cleansing  
• Exfoliation
• Purifying steam
• Extractions
• Massage of face, neck and shoulders
• Custom-blended facial masque
• Therapeutic arm and leg treatment with rhythmic massage of the face, neck and shoulders to improve circulation and relieve stress.
• Galvanic Current, Hi-Frequency, Brushing and Vacuum Machines are used for deeper cleansing.
• Toning
• Moisturizing                                                                                                         top

Facial Rejuvenation

Dr. Vodder's method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a unique method developed in France in the 1930s used to restore skin to normal health.  It is used by estheticians and spa therapists to enhance fluid movement in the skin and helpful for pre- and post- plastic surgery, post liposuction, blepheroplasty, scar tissue, skin congestion, spider veins, telangiectasia, rosacea and acne. It also has a very powerful relaxing and calming effect on the nervous system. The gentle, rhythmic, pumping, massage movements follow the direction of lymph flow and produce rapid results.

Iontophoresis is Galvanic current that uses an acid pH solution that achieves deeper penetration of product. It calms the skin and helps with sun damage, rocasea and sensitized skin.

The ancient healing of hot and cold stone massage balances over-stimulated areas, changes the cell activity throughout the epidermis adding oxegen and nutrients, increasing the lymphatic flow, and removing toxins and waste products.

• Cleansing  
• Purifying steam
• Exfoliation
• Dr. Vodder method of Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) and or Iontophoresis (penetrates to the basal level of the skin)
• Hot or Cold Stone Therapy
• Therapeutic arm and leg treatment with rhythmic massage of the face, neck and shoulders to improve circulation and relieve stress.
• Toning
• Moisturizing                                                                                                         top

Acupressure Facelift

An Acupressure Facelift is based on Chinese Medicine and acupressure points which correspond to meridian pathways or organ flows throughout the body. By touching and holding these points both the meridians are stimulated while your lymphatic and circulatory system drain waste, bacteria, and toxins from your tissues. This process makes your skin glow, become more elastic, improves circulation throughout your face and body, balances the body’s internal organs and greatly enhances your energy level and overall sense of well-being.

The ancient healing of hot and cold stone massage balances over-stimulated areas changes the cell activity throughout the epidermis adding oxygen and nutrients, increasing the lymphatic flow and removing toxins and waste products.

• Cleansing
• Exfoliation
• Purifying steam
• A combination of acupressure, aroma therapy and affirmations to help circulation and balance the bodies internal organs.
• Therapeutic arm and leg treatment with rhythmic massage of the face, neck and shoulders to improve circulation and relieve stress.
• Hot or Cold Stone Therapy
• Toning
• Moisturizing                                                                                                         top

Intuitive Heart Facial

The Intuitive Heart Facial is a deep cleansing facial that includes healing and nurturing for the heart. Experience profound relaxation while promoting healing of body, mind and spirit through sound therapy, toning, crystals, Jin Shin Jyutsu and Reiki.

• Deep cleansing  
• Exfoliation
• Purifying steam
• Massage and acupressure of face, neck and shoulders
• Custom-blended facial masque
• Using sound therapy, crystals, Jin Shin Jytsu and Reiki (energy balancing).
• Therapeutic arm and leg treatment with rhythmic massage of the face, neck and shoulders to improve circulation and relieve stress.
• Toning
• Moisturizing                                                                                                         top

Spa Pantry Facial

By mixing salts, powders, muds, whipped butters or wild honey with extracts, gels or herbs you receive custom built treatments made just for your individual needs. This “green” signature facial is created by combining ingredients, some rich in vitamins and minerals, while others offer antioxidants and proteins from the Spa Pantry.

• Deep cleansing  
• Exfoliation
• Purifying steam
• Massage and acupressure of face, neck and shoulders
• Heavy custom made mask from the spa pantry.
• Therapeutic arm and leg treatment with rhythmic massage of the face, neck and shoulders to improve circulation and relieve stress.
• Toning
• Moisturizing                                                                                                         top

Q.  What is Healing Therapy?

When we are under stress, tired or ill our bodies struggle to find balance. During a healing session a variety of modalities helps us get to the source of our discomfort, release blocks and support our body’s ability to heal. In addition to working on and over your body Reiki, Acupressure, MariEl-Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu and Sound Therapy may be incorporated. Some of these modalities make also be included into a skin care treatment.                                                                                                 top

Q.  What Is Reiki?

Reiki is an ancient method of healing and can be translated as "universal life force energy" and it is used throughout the world.  It is a subtle and profound method of healing, with the power to harmonize the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of ourselves.

During a session Reiki Energy is sent through the practitioners hands that are placed on the body.  A receiver of Reiki will often experience warmth or heat and feel deeply relaxed. Other healing techniques may also be used in order to aid the client to release negative emotions while providing them with a safe space to heal themselves.                                                  top

Q.  What is MariEl-Reiki?

MariEL-Reiki is a powerful healing system and was one of the first energy systems to evolve in America after the introduction of the Usui Reiki healing system. The theory behind MariEL-Reiki healing is that every cell in our body has a memory. When we have trauma due to a negative emotional or physical experience we block the flow of our energy. MariEL-Reiki healing helps to release those memories and helps to restore our energy systems.
 
Created in the early 80's by Ethel Lombardi, MariEL contains a unique way of healing using MariEL Reiki lines and symbols.  In a MariEL-Reiki session the practitioner channels the energy in a very loving and gentle way, the same way Reiki is channeled with either hands on or with the hands not touching, but close to the body.                                                                                    top

Q.  What Is Acupressure?

Acupressure is an ancient healing art using the fingers to skillfully press key points, which stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these trigger points are pressed they release muscular tension, increase circulation and help support the body's life force energy to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same pressure points and meridians. Unlike acupuncture which employs needles, acupressure uses gentle to firm pressure and integrates therapeutic touch, healing imagery, and massage therapy techniques.

Acupressure helps to relieve pain, reduce tension, increase circulation, and enables the body to relax deeply. By relieving stress, acupressure therapy strengthens resistance to disease and
promote wellness.                                                                                                         top

Q.  What is Jin Shin Jyutsu®?

Jin Shin Jyutsu® is an ancient oriental Art of harmonizing life energy within the body. Said to predate Buddha and Moses, it was rediscovered in the early 1900's by Master Jiro Murai, who, after recovery from a "terminal" illness, devoted himself to the revival of the Art for future generations. He believed that the capacity to use this Art is born in all of us, like our hands, the tools with which it is applied.  Jin Shin Jyutsu is not a physical manipulation of tissue and uses only minimal pressure. The hands are used as "jumper cables," contacting 26 "safety energy locks" to redirect, or unblock the flow of energy along its pathways.

A practitioner of Jin Shin Jyutsu is not the "do-er", s/he simply assists in the flow of an infinite supply of universal energy.   A "flow" is a series of hand placement combinations (using the "safety energy locks") that stimulates circulation of energy along a given pathway. There are many such pathways in the body, each with a distinct function or essence. The experience of Jin Shin Jyutsu is unique to each person offering deep relaxation, balance and a lasting sense of well-being.         top

Q.  What is Hot Stone Therapy?

The ancient healing of hot stone massage balances over-stimulated areas, changes the cell activity throughout the body by adding oxygen and nutrients, increases the lymphatic flow, and removes toxins and waste products. Basalt stones made from 5000 year old volcanic rock containing magnesium, salt and iron are used to conduct heat deep into tissues.

During a treatment hot stones that are 120-130 Degrees F. are applied to the body to promote deep tissue healing and relaxation. The warmth loosens stiff muscles promoting deep relaxation and increase blood flow around the body. The combination of the heat and light massage strokes will clear toxins, unblock the body’s natural channels of energy and relieve stress.                                                                                                                                                         top

Q.  What is Sound Therapy?

Sound therapy has a powerful effect upon the body, mind and spirit. During a sound therapy treatment not only are we affected by what we hear, but what we feel physically, emotionally and mentally as the sounds penetrate us on many levels.  Sound therapy is founded on the premise that all matter is vibrating at specific frequencies.

Science has proven that sound, or vibration, has a strong impact upon substance. For example, Dr. Emoto has proven that sound and specific words, changes the molecular structure of water. However, more importantly, sound changes consciousness. Many ancient civilizations and modern indigenous cultures have used sound to heal for thousands of years.

In a sound therapy session the primary tone used in a treatment is the Ohm tone. Tuning forks applied to acupressure points on the body, the ringing of bowls, the use of toning through the voice and special music are incorporated. The sound of Ohm is a Source tone and it contains all sound, just as light contains all color.  The resulting healing frequencies and harmonics influence both the physical and subtle energy fields bringing the body into balance. The sound vibration of Ohm is restful and has a calming and healing effect as it grounds and centers. Since Ohm is omnipresent in nature and the Ohm tone is of the Earth, it is also soothing and centering.

Sound Therapy Sessions are:
Non-invasive , Non-addictive , Non-toxic and Safe. They, harmonize, energize restore, rejuvenate, relax, reduce stress, aid sleep and uplift you physically, emotionally and spiritually.                      top