Author: hallenmedia

The beauty industry is one that sees a lot of fads come and go. The latest trends emerge, usually promoted by an Instagram influencer or a celebrity, and then everyone has to go out and try it for themselves, usually for a hefty price. One of these trends in recent years has been the use of crystals for a wide range of applications, and the healing abilities they are thought to have.

One treatment that has come out of this is the gemstone facial, but is it just a fad or does it have real benefits to it? Read on to find out more.

What is a gemstone facial?

A gemstone facial is part facial and part massage, and some treatments also incorporate acupuncture and even facial cupping. Typically, you lie on your back and certain gemstones are placed on the chakras or along the meridians on your face. These are points or lines of energy along the body, and meditative practices often focusing on opening the chakras to keep you in balance.

Various lotions or serums may be applied to the skin as part of the actual facial part of a gemstone facial. Another common technique that may be used is rolling, where a gemstone roller is used to massage the face. And, as mentioned, acupuncture and/or cupping may also be incorporated.

Gemstones that are commonly used include:

• Jade
• Quartz
• Rose quartz
• Amethyst
• Aquamarine
• Apatite

And this isn’t all a new age treatment; the use of gemstones goes back at least centuries, particularly in China. And a traditional Chinese medicine technique called gua sha may also be incorporated in gemstone facials, which uses a gemstone to lightly scrape the skin, although evidence supporting the benefits of this is limited.

The benefits of gemstone facials

You don’t have to believe in the “magical” properties of crystals and gemstones to benefit from a gemstone crystal. The massage techniques used are nice and relaxing and help to increase circulation to the face, which is beneficial for the skin as more oxygen-rich blood is delivered to it. These techniques can help with sculpting and lifting the face, and are combined with facial treatments and skincare products to produce glowing, younger-looking skin. Certain techniques used may also help to remove toxins from the skin.

In terms of the gemstones themselves, they have a very cooling and often soothing effect when placed on the skin. Some are thought to have purifying effects that help to clear toxins from your body. In fact, zeolite filters have been used to reduce nuclear waste at certain sites.

If you’re interested in trying a gemstone facial for yourself, then contact Moonstone Massage to find out more or go online to book an appointment with us in Winston Salem, NC.

You usually hear about sports massage, Swedish massage, and deep tissue massage when it comes to advice or advertisements about massage treatments. And more recently, treatments like cupping and hot stone massage have risen in popularity. But there are lots and lots of different types of massage with fascinating roots, including some types you may not have even heard of before.

They may be harder to come across when you’re looking to book a treatment, but let’s learn about some of the less common types of massage.

Tui na massage

This ancient Chinese form of massage (pronounced twee nah) translates to “pinch and pull”, which tells you a little bit about the techniques used. With tui na, the massage therapist targets certain points on the body, similar to acupressure or acupuncture, to address blockages and imbalances to your qi (or chi). A variety of massage techniques can be used, both light and deep, and oils and lotions can be incorporated.

Belavi massage

Also known as the facelift massage, this facial massage targets pressure points and stimulates the tissues around the face, helping to increase blood flow and drain lymph fluid. Heat is often used to open the pores as well, before applying moisturizers and other lotions to the face. This technique is said to improve the skin and combat signs of aging.

Pfrimmer deep muscle therapy

This type of deep muscle massage therapy was developed in the 20^th century to help those experiencing muscle paralysis, but it is also useful for pain and injury. It uses cross-fiber massage techniques to remove waste, toxins, and lymph from the tissues, as well as increasing blood flow and improving joint mobility. It can be useful for managing chronic pain and aiding recovery, and can be useful for those with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

Balinese massage

Balinese massage uses a combination of different massage techniques, drawing on acupressure, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, and others. It is a relaxing form of massage that aims to increase blood flow around your body as well as the flow of energy, or qi. Essential oils are commonly used, and the massage therapist will use gentle strokes as well as deeper ones to target knots and deep tissue.

Esalen massage

This kind of massage is different in that it aims to heal the mind more than the body. It uses gentle strokes across the entire body to strengthen the connection between mind and body, helping to improve bodily awareness. As well as the typical massage benefits such as increased blood flow and relaxation, Esalen massage helps you become more in-tune with your body.

Contact Moonstone Massage or check out our treatment options online to find out about the different kinds of massage and other treatments we offer in our clinic in Winston Salem, NC.

Men who shave their face regularly are likely to have experienced razor irritation or razor burn at some point. This is a kind of rash caused by shaving, generally characterized by small red bumps or blotches around the affected area, which may itch, sting, or burn slightly. This can also occur when shaving other parts of the body.

Some men shave as often as every day or every other day, and this is just one reason why it’s important for men to take care of their skin. So, let’s look at some of the ways you can prevent and treat razor burn.

Preventing razor burn

Men who have sensitive skin may be more likely to experience razor burn, but it is often due to improper shaving practices. Maybe you were in a rush before work and just decided to quickly shave with a splash of water. We all feel like cutting corners from time to time, but this can lead to uncomfortable irritation.

When shaving, you should first wash your face and then use warm water and a shaving cream or gel. The warm water helps to open up the pores and soften the hairs. Make sure you clean your razor head and replace it as needed because razors that are worn, blunt, rusted, or dirty are more likely to cause irritation. You should shave with the grain, in the same direction that the hair grows, in order to reduce your risk of razor burn. You should also moisturize your skin after shaving to keep the skin soft and healthy.

Relieving razor burn

If you’re experiencing razor burn, then you should look for skincare products that will soothe the skin. You don’t want to end up like the Home Alone kid applying stinging aftershave to your irritated skin. Ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile could provide this soothing effect. Moisturizing the skin can help it heal faster, and anti-inflammatory skincare products can help to reduce the redness and any swelling.

As well as home remedies for razor burn, a professional facial treatment will help to relieve and soothe your symptoms while also improving the health and appearance of your skin, both in the short term and the long term. Facials will cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize your skin to leave it feeling great, and the treatment itself feels nice and relaxing, too.

If you want to book a facial or any other treatment with Moonstone Massage, then you can get in touch or book an appointment with us online.

There are a wide range of options to choose from when it comes to booking a massage. Each massage has its own slightly different qualities and benefits, and we want to help you choose the right massage to suit you. In this article, we’re going to look at Indian head massage and how it can help you.

What is it?

Indian head massage, or Champissage, originated in India more than 2,000 years ago and eventually made its way over to Western society. Despite its name, it is used to treat the neck and shoulders as well as the head and scalp. It follows the same theories as acupressure to target certain points in these areas that are thought to have a positive effect on your overall wellbeing by balancing your body’s energy.

Indian head massage is generally a gentle massage that mostly uses circular strokes, but can incorporate a variety of techniques and levels of pressure. It is typically done without using oils (although they can be incorporated if you wish) and can be done through a light layer of clothing when it comes to the shoulders.

What are the benefits of Indian head massage?

There are a number of physical benefits or getting an Indian head massage. It can help to relieve pain around the areas covered, which is great for tension in the neck and shoulders. Since this kind of pain is common among office workers and is an increasingly common problem due to smartphone usage, Indian head massage can be used to help a lot of people.

It can also help to relieve pain from headaches and migraines, and could even reduce the prevalence of them. Indian head massage is also great for your scalp and hair. It is thought to stimulate the hair follicles and increase circulation to the scalp, which can both increase hair growth and lead to thicker, healthier-looking hair. By improving circulation in the area, these techniques can also help to relieve blocked sinuses and other symptoms of sinusitis.

Like other types of massage, Indian head massage is incredibly relaxing, which can have a number of knock-on effects such as relieving stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and helping to improve focus. And add to all this that it feels great!

We offer a range of different massages customized to your needs at Moonstone Massage. Get in touch with us to find out more about our services and packages, or go online to book a massage with us in Winston Salem, NC.

Among many other benefits, regular massage is great for keeping your skin looking and feeling great. But we still have to look after our skin in other ways, particularly when it comes to sun exposure. As well as the serious risk of skin cancer from exposure to UV rays, not protecting your skin from the sun can lead to premature aging.

Here are some tips for how to look after your skin in the sun.

Wear sunscreen

You’ve probably been told it a lot throughout your life, but it’s still easy to forget to wear sunscreen or underestimate its importance. Whenever you’ll be out in the sun, you should apply sunscreen to any areas that will be exposed. Even on overcast and cloudy days, you can still be exposed to UV rays. Try to use at least SPF 15 and reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours.

Seek the shade

If you’re spending a day at the beach or an afternoon in the park, you don’t have to be out in the direct sunlight all the time. Sit under a tree or an umbrella to shade yourself from the sun and give your skin a break. You should especially look for shade around midday when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.

Cover up

You don’t exactly want to wrap up warm when it’s sunny, but covering up helps to limit the amount of skin exposed to the sun. Wear light clothing that covers you, a hat to shade your face, sunglasses to protect your eyes. You can also look for clothing that absorbs UV light and sunglasses that specifically protect against it.

Hydrate

You should drink plenty of fluids when out in the sun and the heat to make sure you don’t become dehydrated. But staying hydrated in the sun is also important for keeping your skin in good condition. Dehydration and sun damage are a sure combination for dry skin, wrinkles, and other skin issues.

Moisturize

After spending a day in the sun, you should use a moisturizer to rehydrate your skin and help it renew and repair. You can find products that are specifically designed for use after sun exposure.

Book a massage treatment or a facial for better skin with Moonstone Massage. And you can get in touch to find out more about the different types of treatments we offer in Winston Salem, NC.

Massage oils aren’t necessary for a good massage, but they can help to reduce the friction for a more comfortable massage as well as enhancing various benefits of a massage. If you’re wondering whether to include massage oils in your professional or at-home massages, then read on for some of the benefits and the different types of massage oils to choose from.

The benefits of massage oil

Massage oil can add a variety of benefits to your professional massage. Different types of oil can nourish the skin during your massage, helping with a variety of skin problems such as eczema, dry skin, and wrinkles. Some oils also have warming effects, helping your muscles to relax and loosen even more during your massage.

The lubricating effect of massage oils means that the massage therapist’s hands glide more easily and smoothly over your skin. The pleasant smells of massage oils can also have a relaxation boosting effect, as with aromatherapy.

Popular types of massage oil

For your next massage, here are some of the most popular types of massage oil that you might want to add:

• Almond oil – Sweet almond oil can offer both hydrating and anti-inflammatory benefits for your skin, which can be helpful for dry skin and even conditions like eczema
• Jojoba oil – Jojoba is an easily absorbed oil that penetrates deeply into the skin and helps to moisturize it
• Avocado oil – Avocado oil is particularly good for dry skin and problems like psoriasis and eczema, containing vitamins and antioxidants that are good for the skin
• Coconut oil – Coconut oil is a thick oil that’s good for dry, cracked skin, as well as having anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
• Olive oil – This isn’t just for cooking. Olive oil can also be used in your massages. It can help to moisturize your skin and relieve aching or stiff muscles. It also contains antioxidants that can have various benefits to your wellbeing.
• Essential oils – The above oils are carrier oils, which can be combined with essential oils for greater benefits and for aromatherapy properties. Here’s a guide to some of the different essential oils you can use and the benefits they offer

If you want certain massage oils used during your appointment or would prefer not to use massage oils, then talk to your massage therapist when booking your appointment or at the beginning of your appointment and we can adapt to your preferences. Contact Moonstone Massage to talk to a massage therapist, or you can book an appointment online.

While you’re pregnant, a prenatal massage can offer lots of benefits to both you and your baby. It helps to relieve tension and pain as well as relaxing you mentally. And the boost in circulation caused by massage helps to get more nutrients to your baby to help them grow. And the benefits of massage don’t have to stop once your baby is born. Baby and infant massage has a lot of benefits for both parent and child.

The benefits of baby massage

Massaging your baby has both physical and emotional benefits for both of you. Gentle massage can help to aid your baby’s digestion, just like when you rub and pat their back after a bottle of milk. This can help to prevent problems like gas and constipation, and is particularly beneficial if your baby suffers from colic.

The boost in circulation also supports digestion and other bodily functions, and can help your baby’s growth by improving nutrient delivery in their body. And as they grow, which they’re doing every day, massage can help to ease any discomfort and growing pains as well as being generally relaxing like it is for adults, which can help your baby sleep better.

Massaging your baby is great for developing that maternal or paternal bond between the two of you. The touch of your skin stimulates the release of oxytocin in both of you, helping to strengthen your bond and love on a chemical level.

How to massage your baby

Touch is important for your baby from birth, but it is better to wait a few weeks before you start performing massage techniques. Six weeks is a good place to start. You can massage your baby every day, perhaps once they first wake up in the morning or when you’re trying to get them to sleep at night or naptime.

All it requires are gentle touches with your fingers or thumbs in different motions, like circular or stroking motions. This can be beneficial on your child’s back, stomach, legs, arms, hands, and feet. Always be conscious of your baby’s reactions and stop the massage or use less pressure if they seem uncomfortable.

Choose a warm, comfortable location for the massage. You may want to lie them down in bed or on the changing table, for example. Talking to your baby while you massage them can also be beneficial as a way to relax them and increase your bond. You can use oils in your massage if you choose to, just make sure that they are suitable for your baby’s skin.

If you’d like any more tips on baby massage or need a relaxing massage for yourself, contact Moonstone Massage or book an appointment with us online for a range of treatments in Winston Salem, NC.

Many jobs require workers to sit at a desk for the best part of 8 hours a day. As well as the downsides of a largely sedentary lifestyle, this can also be harmful to our posture if we don’t sit correctly or set up our workstations correctly. This is why chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain are so common among office workers.

We’ve rounded up some tips to help you maintain good posture and support throughout the workday.

Setting up your work station

The position of your chair, desk, computer screen, mouse, and keyboard all have an impact on your posture. The incorrect heights can put a strain on your neck, back, or other areas. Here are some tips for setting up your work station correctly:

• Adjust your chair to a height so that your feet can fully reach the floor, keep your feet flat on the floor while you work. Adding a footstool or other support can make this more comfortable for some
• Adjust the back of the chair so that it provides adequate lower back support. A cushion or support behind your back can help with this
• Your monitor should be positioned so that the top of the screen is approximately at eye level. You can use a monitor stand or place it on books to achieve this height
• How close you sit to the desk and the position of your keyboard should mean that you can keep your forearms and wrists are parallel with the floor, with your elbows at right angles. An armrest or wrist support can make this more comfortable

Choosing the right chair

The type of chair you use also has a big impact on the level of support you receive while sitting at your desk. A chair with an adjustable height and backrest is ideal so that you can adjust your sitting position properly. Look for a chair with adequate lumbar support to comfortably improve your posture, giving your lower back the support it needs. Armrests can also make your office chair more comfortable, particularly if they are adjustable.

Look at ergonomic chairs to help make your workspace more comfortable and supportive.

Get up and move

Sitting for long periods of time can be bad for our physical health even if our posture is correct. So, it’s important to get up regularly, even if it’s just to walk around the office for a couple of minutes. Doing stretches at your desk can also help to improve your posture and relieve some of the tension in your neck, back, and other areas.

If you sit for long periods at work each day, then regular massage treatments can help to maintain your posture and treat any tension or pain caused by this position. Contact Moonstone Massage or book an appointment with us online for a range of treatment options in Winston Salem, NC.

Migraines can be extremely frustrating and painful. They can stop you from getting work done or from enjoying whatever you were doing before the migraine hit. Depending on the severity of your migraines, they can be fairly debilitating, leaving you having to lay in bed for hours in the dark due to sensitivity to the light.

Migraine symptoms

Symptoms of migraines can vary from one person to the next and even from one episode to the next. The main symptom is an often-intense headache, which can become more painful through movement and exposure to light and sound. This pain may be localized to one side of the head or can be a more general throbbing pain.

Approximately 30% of migraine sufferers also experience ‘aura’ with their migraines. This typically occurs before the onset of the headache and involves a disruption to vision. Patients typically see lights, colored spots, or dark patches in their field of vision. Some people also experience other symptoms such as nausea and light-headedness with their migraines.

Migraine causes

The cause of migraines is not completely understood, but certain factors can potentially lead to the onset of a migraine attack in some people. These include:

• Hormone changes
• Lack of sleep
• Stress and anxiety
• Dehydration
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Undereating or skipping meals
• Consuming too much caffeine
• Consuming too much sugar
• Bright lights, e.g. bright sunlight or staring at a computer or television screen
• Poor posture
• Lack of fresh air
• High-pressure weather, e.g. thunderstorms

A combination of these factors could contribute to a migraine occurring. So, for some people, lifestyle changes such as getting enough sleep, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can reduce the incidence of migraines. Migraines may also have a genetic component, meaning you are more likely to suffer from migraines if one of your parents does.

Migraine treatments

You can’t cure yourself of migraines, but there are ways to manage the pain when they occur and even prevent their onset. Regular over-the-counter pain medication can help to reduce and manage your symptoms. Many sufferers experience warning signs before the onset of pain, including aura, and taking painkillers at this point can help to lessen or even prevent the headache. If your migraines are severe or disruptive to your life, you can talk to your doctor about prescription medications that manage or prevent migraines.

For a natural alternative, massage can help to manage pain from migraines and reduce their severity and occurrence. If you want to see how regular massage treatments could improve or prevent your migraines and headaches, then contact us at Moonstone Massage or book an appointment with us online.

The average person’s lifestyle has become increasingly more sedentary over the centuries. Many of us sit at a desk working all day, commute to and from work sitting in a car or on public transport, and then spend our evenings relaxing on the couch in front of the TV or sitting with friends for a couple of drinks. All the inventions and advancements that have made life easier for us have also removed much of the necessity to be active.

If you don’t have an active job or if you’re not extremely active in your leisure time, then it’s likely that you spend too much of your time sitting down. Here are some of the dangers and health risks of sitting for too long each day.

You’re more likely to gain weight

Being overweight or obese comes with many of its own health risks. When you spend most of your day sitting, you burn much fewer calories than if you are active. Even basic activities like standing and walking burn calories that contribute to your total daily energy expenditure. If you consume more calories than you expend on a daily basis, then this will lead to weight gain over time.

A greater risk of certain diseases

Leading such a sedentary lifestyle is also linked to various conditions and diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. As a result, studies have also found that too much sitting and too little physical activity is an indicator of premature death. So, getting up and about on a daily basis could literally add years to your life.

It’s bad for your posture

Do you ever get a bad back after you’ve been sitting for too long? Sitting for too long puts a strain on your back, neck, and spine, which can lead to chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. A combination of exercise, regular movement, stretching, and massage can help to keep your body in good shape and improve your posture. For when you do need to sit, make sure you watch your posture and invest in an ergonomic chair if you sit all day for work.

Reduced blood flow

Moving gets our blood pumping more effectively, helping it reach and nourish all of our tissues and organs. Sitting for too long can reduce blood flow to these areas and lead to health problems such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis. Getting up from your desk or sofa regularly helps to keep your blood pumping effectively.

If you have a sedentary job, then try to take regular breaks, even if it’s just to walk around the office for a few minutes. You can also do stretches at your desk. Try to do some activity and exercise outside of work, too, or start walking to and from work if it’s possible. Massage can help to improve poor posture and other health effects from sitting too much. Contact Moonstone Massage to book an appointment with us.