An Unexpected Valentine . . . Luxurious Treats in a Different Form

Posted @ Jan. 20 2012 09:52PM by Susan - viewpoints

Why Give a Facial for Valentine's Day?

By Barbara Sudar, co-owner, Estetica Day Spa, Longview

Valentine’s Day is my very favorite holiday of the year. It is also the holiday where no matter the tangible gift, I am always left feeling like a worldly possession could never show what I have in my heart.

Roses, chocolate covered strawberries, a favorite champagne – did you know this year you could provide these Valentine’s traditions in a totally different form? A form you cannot see? Both men and women alike enjoy these luxurious treats.

In today’s frenzied times a unique gift may very well be the gift of an aromatherapy facial. The gift where touch and aroma come together to leave long lasting visible effects.

Facials are often misunderstood and in general, many people are unaware of what a facial can provide.

A facial will benefit the skin in a variety ways. Some of these benefits include a deep cleansing and exfoliation, aid to detoxification, and toned and relaxed skin. A specific skin treatment can be provided and a facial can be considered a preventive measure against prematurely aging skin. Facials involve massage, contributing positively to blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, which in turn can slow the onset of wrinkles, reduce puffiness and generate skin cell growth and collagen. Positive effects are long-lasting. A facial is a spa therapy that leaves the skin cleaner, softer, younger feeling and transformed. Facials allow one to experience a dramatic difference in the quality and texture of the skin. These benefits can be seen by the naked eye, but the benefits go even deeper and herein lies the gift.

The Gift
Stress is one of the leading causes of deteriorating health and touch conveys a sense of caring. During a facial, massage techniques are used to relax the individual. The practitioner will provide pressure and massage movements to highly sensitive pressure points, such as ears, temples and eyes, allowing the individual to slip into slumber. Aromas enhance this relaxation and allow an even deeper delving into this state of consciousness. Essential oils, such as rose, geranium or lavender, not lonly bring forth strong feelings of harmony and peace, but also can be used as treatments. Rose absolute, for example, is effective for headaches and tired eyes, and for its healing and cooling properties. The 17th Century English physician, Nicholas Culpeper (1616–1654), wrote that red roses strengthen the heart. He may have been referring to a physical action, but anyone who has inhaled the fragrance of fresh roses or their essential oil knows the aroma strengthens the heart spiritually and emotionally, as well.

Consider the aroma of chocolate, combined with human touch. Since its inception, chocolate has been considered divine, decadent and valuable.

Skin is the body’s largest organ and provides a direct reflection of one’s internal well-being. The brain,where aroma is processed, is the organ that controls all others. Valentine’s Day is the one day per year when we focus on matters of the heart. This February give some thought to an aromatherapy facial as a Valentine option – it may just be the gift that reaches mind, body and soul.

For more information, contact Barbara Sudar at Estetica Day Spa, 360-577-6956 or visit the Estetica website.

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In 2008 Barbara became a co-owner of Estetica Day Spa, where she blends her 20 year career in healthcare business management with a realm of wellness, aesthetics, massage and reflexology. With a grateful heart Barbara enjoys offering a place for people to come and feel the experience of being nutured and cared for in a calm, relaxing environment. She lives in a 100-year-old home, on a small cattle farm west of Longview.