Lymphatic Drainage Tips from a Holistic Facialist, The Face Wizard
The ultimate self care technique that is perfect for lockdown. Lymphatic drainage through the use of crystal tools is an effective solution to puffiness or swelling in the face, and all it takes is the devotion of just a few minutes in your day. This can be practiced in the morning, in between work, or even as an addition to your nightly self care routine, enhancing the experience entirely alongside a beautifully scented candle, calming music, and maybe even a bath to follow.
Holistic facialist and skin specialist, Mary Whitefield, joins us to further explore lymphatic drainage with the accompaniment of crystal tools, and how this can transform your skin within just a few minutes.
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What does your role as a holistic facialist entail?
In my role as a holistic facialist I still use the same principles as a regular facial routine.
As well as focusing solely on the skin and the products to be used, I like to use a holistic approach by tailoring the treatment to each individual client, both emotionally and physically. I do this through calming the mind and spirit with a deeply relaxing massage to induce muscle tension release. I use my hands as well as the Gua sha tools to massage my clients, alongside aromatherapy which is used to bring my clients into an even deeper state of relaxation. Holistic treatments are especially beneficial for city dwellers who need a moment of calm.
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You practice lymphatic drainage through your facial massages. What does this mean, and what are the main benefits of this method?
The lymphatic system can help protect us from infection and disease and also rids the body of unwanted toxins; it is a part of the body’s immune system. Lymph fluid passes through lymph nodes, and there is a network of lymph vessels that connect the lymph nodes together. You have nodes throughout your body.
Through massage you can gently speed up and promote the process of lymphatic drainage. Massage promotes the circulation of the lymph and helps rid the body of waste materials. The reason why this is encouraged in facial massage is because it decreases puffiness and waste build up in the face and neck, therefore promoting clearer skin and improved blood circulation. This leaves you with a healthy, radiant glow, and an even complexion.
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As a holistic facialist, you use crystal tools such as Gua Sha and crystal rollers. How do these tools play a role in massaging the face, and to what effect?
Gua sha is an ancient Chinese healing practice that has been used for thousands of years. Gua sha is intended to address stagnant energy in the body called Chi; this is believed to be responsible for inflammation. Gua sha technique can be used all over the body as well as the face.
Facial Gua sha is believed to be highly beneficial as it can relieve muscle tension in the face and neck. The gentle scraping techniques help promote lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness. This can also help break up the facia, otherwise known as the connective tissue that surrounds the muscles.
The Gua Sha tools are usually made of Quartz or Jade and sometimes Obsidian; they all come in different, beautiful shapes with various energetic properties. Jade is a naturally cool stone but generates heat when in contact with the skin. It is also believed that Green Jade carries the energy of the earth, giving a wholesome and balancing effect that uplifts and soothes the heart. Quartz is known to harmonise all of the chakras, helping amplify energy.
Before using these tools, I recommend ensuring that they are clean and of cool temperature. You can store these tools in the fridge between use for an extra cooling effect. To clean these tools, apply non-comedogenic oil to freshly cleansed skin before allowing the tools to come in contact with your face.
In order to use the tools, begin by holding the Gua sha tool at a slight angle almost flat to the face, ensuring the edge of the tool is in direct contact with the skin. Glide gently up along the neck, the move to the jawline, all the way until you reach the forehead. Repeat this three to four times.
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Lastly, do you have any tips and tricks for people at home that would like to use these tools in order to massage their face and receive the optimal benefits of this massage?
1. Use of a non-comedogenic oil that is best suited to your skin type.
2. Make sure that you use antibacterial solutions to clean tools before and after each use. Remember to also keep the tools in the fridge to speed up the de-puffing process.
3. Inhale and exhale deeply before and during the massage routine to help boost relaxation, and keep you grounded.
4. Find what tool suits you best, and feels good for what you are using it for.
5. Make sure that whilst massaging your face, you are comfortable and in a relaxed atmosphere. I recommend lighting a stick of palo santo to clear any negative energy, and playing your favourite music to enhance the experience.
Overall…
This traditional practice has proven itself to be effective for hundreds of years now, and it can be done in the comfort of your own home. Lockdown may be the perfect time to invest in crystal tools; utilise them to help bring out your inner radiance throughout the gloomy, winter weather.
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