Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Magazine Issue #79 2021

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Anti-Aging

Spa

Lifestyle Relaxation & Health Therapies

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Workshop

Product

Network

Awards

Doc: Alice Alinari

Conference

Innovate, Invigorate & Elevate your Spa Peruse the top 10 business skills forecasted for the future and you’ll find the common thread of Creativity.

Emotional intelligence, originality, critical thinking, innovation, and complex problem solving are essential to invigorate and elevate your Spa. Creativity is Intelligence having Fun Albert Einstein

25th & 26th July 2021

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083 267 2773

The Houghton Hotel Lloys Ellis Ave, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg Doc: Brian-Patrick

info@lesnouvelles.co.za On-line Registration: w w w. l e s n o u v e l l e s . c o . z a

A Professional take on SPA Business, Health Therapies, Products & Simple Relaxation 2021*ISSUE*79

C O N T E N T S *79

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Anti-ageing Market : Growth Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021 - 2026) 2 Removing Barriers Between Beauty and Wellness 4 10 Beauty Trends That Continue to Dominate 2021 6 Trending Ingredients 8 Q&A with Victor Brick: Why the Wellness Pie Has Never Been Bigger 10 Skin that sparkles: Are precious metals your skins new best friend? 14 The Physical Activity Market Is Currently Engaging Only 1/3 of the World’s Population 16 Skinimalism 18 Myths, Lies and Facts about Burnout 20 What Is a Lash Lift and Why Is Everyone Talking About It? 24 The Altered Aesthetic Landscape Forever 26 Why There's No Such Thing as a Healthy Sun Tan 28 These 13 Supplements have Age-Reversing Effects 30 How to Capture your Youth with Collagen 32 The Best Anti-Ageing Products to Use in Your 20s, 30s, 40s & 50s 34 Power of Sleep in 2020 and Beyond 36 IV Nutrient Therapy – Drip with Caution 38 6 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Brain Health 40 Men Go Off Menu 42 Essential Beard Oils 44 A Nutritionist’s Guide to Anti-ageing Eating Everyday 46 7 Reasons Patience is an Important Virtue for All Entrepreneurs 48 The Importance of Personal Renewal 50 Succeeding in an Era When Clients Define and Drive Service Concepts, as Never Before 52

E d i t o r s

W e l c o m e

Changing the Way We Talk About Ageing The global anti-ageing market reached a value of $58.5 Billion (US Dollars) in 2020! As Aestheticians and Spa Professionals, this equates to much of our business being the business of anti-ageing. Currently, consumers in the age group of 35-55 years lead the global anti-ageing market, holding more than a half of the total global market. Based on industry, the skincare industry accounts for the largest share since consumers focus more on the appearance of their skin. Skincare leads the way and is subsequently followed by the hair care and dental industries. To know why people are obsessed with anti-ageing, lets look at what ageing is. Ageing is brought about by a cycle of biochemical processes that cause the body to degenerate over time, impacting the individuals health, fitness, and physical appearance. Anti-ageing refers to the process of limiting or slowing these changes through various products and services. The growing consciousness among both the younger and older consumers regarding their physical appearance has fostered anti-ageing products and devices. “Anti-Ageing” is the term most widely used in the beauty industry to market preventative and corrective ageing skincare treatments and products. The concept behind this isn?t new at all. Since the dawn of time, women have tried to stop the clock. Dating as far back as 69 BC, Cleopatra bathed in donkey?s milk daily because of the milk?s alpha hydroxy acids that softened and exfoliated her skin.

Dates to Diarise: Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Conference and Spa Awards 2021 are taking place on the 25th & 26th July 2021, at the new Houghton Hotel. An event not to be missed! Register today on www.lesnouvelleblog.co.za

Dr. Nadine de Freitas

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques International Publisher I 7, avenue Stephane Mallarme 75017 PARIS Tel: 01 43 80 06 47 Fax: 01 43 80 83 63 www.nouvelles-esthetiques.com I Fondateur : H. Pierantoni I Directeur de la Publications: Jeannine Cannac-Pierantoni I Redactrice en chef: Michéle de Lattre-Pierantoni I International Editions • Argentina • Baltic • Benelux • Brazil • Bulgaria • Canada • China • France • Greece • Hong Kong • Hungary • Israel • Italy • Japan • Mexico • Poland • Portugal • Romania • Singapore • South Africa • Spain • Taiwan • Turkey • Ukraine • USA • Yugoslavia Les Nouvelles Esthétiques South African Edition I Max Cafe P. O. Box 81204, Parkhurst Johannesburg, South Africa 2120 I Tel: +27 83 267 2773 e-mail: info@lesnouvelles.co.za www.lesnouvelles.co.za I Publisher/Creative Director : Anthony de Freitas e-mail: tony@maxcafe.co.za I Managing Editor : Dr. Nadine de Freitas e-mail: nadine@maxcafe .co.za I Editor ial Assistant: Sarene Kloren editor ial @lesnouvelles.co.za I Adver tising Enquir ies: Dr Nadine de Freitas e-mail: info@lesnouvelles.co.za I Subscription Enquiries: Tel: +27 83 267 2773 e-mail: info@lesnouvelles.co.za or visit: www.lesnouvelles.co.za

spa therapies The GWI releases top research, the new directions and trends with experts that will have the most powerful impact on the wellness industry and people - worldwide.

Anti-aging Market Growth Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021 - 2026)

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

However, stringent regulatory policies for the devices and social stigma in some populations are expected to hinder the market growth over the forecast period.

Scope of the Report

The Anti-Aging Market is segmented by Product Type (Anti-wrinkle Products, Anti-stretch Mark Products, Hair Colour Products, and Other Products) and Devices (Radio-frequency Devices, Anti-cellulite Treatment Devices, Microdermabrasion Devices, and Other Devices), Application (Anti-wrinkle Treatment, Anti-pigmentation, Skin Resurfacing, and Other Applications), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle-East and Africa, and South America).

Skin aging is a complex biological process, influenced by a combination of endogenous or intrinsic and exogenous or extrinsic factors. Because of the fact that skin health and beauty are considered among the principal factors representing overall well-being in humans, several anti-aging strategies have been developed during the past years. The anti-aging market is segmented by type, application, and geography.

Market Overview

Key Market Trends

The anti-aging market was valued at approximately USD 44,124 million in 2020, and it is expected to witness a revenue of USD 64,043 million in 2026, with a CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period. The global pandemic of COVID-19 has highly impacted all facets of the healthcare industry. As per the research article published in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2020, in 2018, there were 17.7 million cosmetic procedures, a 2% rise from 2017, which highlighted the increasing trend in cosmetic procedures. However, the number of cosmetic procedures in 2020 was minimal to none during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States (mid-March to mid-June). Also, as per a research study carried by Amorepacific Research Institute and Technology, wearing a face mask, which is most important during the current pandemic led to adverse effects on skin and suggested that the skin covered with face masks should be treated extra carefully due to certain changes in skin characteristics. However, most of the elective surgeries are deferred to secure the healthcare infrastructure for COVID-19 patients. Thus, the current pandemic is expected to have a direct and indirect impact on the anti-aging market.

Anti-stretch Mark and Anti-wrinkle Products are Projected to Have Significant Growth Over the Forecast Period

The rise in the consumer demand for anti-aging solutions, with the increase in lifestyle standards and income among the population across the world, is the major factor driving the growth of the studied market. According to the United Nations World Population Prospects 2019 report, the total population within the range of 40-59 years of age was approximately 17,83,309 in 2019, and it is predicted to reach 20,46,991 by 2030. This age group population is anticipated to adopt preventive aging solutions. Similarly, according to the International Society of Plastic Surgery (ISPAS) report 2019, a total of 1,582,296 individuals aged 51-64 years underwent botulinum toxin procedures globally in 2019. Additionally, the advancements in technology and increasing investment in the research and development activities by major players for the innovation of highly safe and efficient skin care solutions are expected to propel the anti-aging market globally. Thus, with the increasing awareness and adoption of anti-aging solutions, there is a potential market for anti-aging devices and aesthetic plastic surgery procedures over the forecast period.

Stretch mark develops when the skin stretches or shrinks quickly. The abrupt change causes collagen and elastin, which support the skin to rupture. Aging is a primary factor for stretch marks. Also, rapid weight loss or gain and pregnancy are the most common reasons leading to stretch marks. The growing demand for anti-stretch mark products, due to the increasing incidence of obesity, particularly among the older population, and the increasing focus of major companies on the launch of advanced devices and products for the treatment of stretch marks are anticipated to boost the segment’s growth. For instance, in January 2018, New York-based pregnancy brand Hatch launched a belly mask that provides hydration and helps minimize stretch marks. In November 2019, Hope Smith, a US model launched her own skincare brand MUTHA, with two products that help pregnant women treat their stretch marks. The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to slightly impact the studied segment, as most of the aesthetic and cosmetic procedures were considered as elective and were deferred to reserve the hospital resources in the treatment of COVID-19 patients, along with aim of minimizing the risk of exposure of patients receiving anti-aging treatment to SARS-CoV2 viral infection. However, research on utilizing a few antiaging drugs in the treatment of COVID-19 infection is being carried out by a few researchers. For instance, according to the research article published in Aging 2020, anti-aging drugs, such as Rapamycin and Doxycycline, were suggested for the treatment of COVID-19 infection, as these drugs can inhibit protein synthesis by blocking viral replication. On the other hand, anti-wrinkle products are also anticipated to witness a notable growth rate, owing to the growing awareness regarding the availability of products and the increasing older population. For instance, in November 2020, SofWave Medical secured CE Mark for its next-generation Sofwave system, which was approved for use for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles in the European Union. Thus, owing to all the aforementioned factors, the market is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period.

North America is Expected to Hold the Largest Share in the Anti-aging Market During the Forecast Period North America's anti-aging market is projected to have significant market growth, owing to the availability of the well-established infrastructure, presence of key market players, and increasing average life expectancies and the median age in the region. The anti-aging market is predicted to exhibit a relatively slower trend during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the non-COVID-19 period. According to the research article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, there was a significant reduction in the search volume index related to cosmetic procedures from 71.8 to 45.1 dur ing t he COVID-19 pandemic. However, the growing adoption of anti-aging products and cosmetic procedures, coupled with the favorable reimbursement policies, is anticipated to bolster the regional growth over the forecast period. Moreover, companies in the region are actively focusing on strengthening their market position through R&D and new product launches. In February 2019, Lutronic Aesthetic received the US FDA clearance of the Lutronic Genius platform, which is used in precise coagulation and results in regeneration of collagen and elastin, thus, improving scars, skin texture, wrinkles, and laxity anywhere on the body. Thus, in view of the aforementioned factors, the studied market is expected to grow significantly in North America.

Competitive Landscape There is huge competition in the anti-aging market, due to the presence of many domestic and international market players. Most of the market players are adopting various growth strategies, such as acquisitions, partnerships, and new product launches, in order to secure their position in the market. For instance, in December 2019, Estee Lauder Companies Inc. acquired Have a Be Co. Ltd, a Seoul-based global skincare company that brands Dr. Jart+ and men’s grooming products named Do The Right Thing. In September 2018, Syneron Medical Ltd acquired Ellipse AS, a company that manufactures and markets laser-based and intense pulse light (IPL) platforms for different types of medical and aesthetic skin treatments. About the Global Wellness Summit: The Global Wellness Summit is an invitation-only international gathering that brings together leaders and visionaries to positively shape the future of the $4.5 trillion global wellness economy. Held in a different location each year, Summits have taken place in the US, Switzerland, Turkey, Bali, India, Morocco, Mexico, Austria, Italy and Singapore. Global Wellness Summit 2021is scheduled for Tel Aviv, Israel.

spa therapies The GWI releases top research, the new directions and trends with experts that will have the most powerful impact on the wellness industry and people - worldwide.

Anti-aging Market Growth Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021 - 2026)

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

However, stringent regulatory policies for the devices and social stigma in some populations are expected to hinder the market growth over the forecast period.

Scope of the Report

Market Overview

Key Market Trends

Anti-stretch Mark and Anti-wrinkle Products are Projected to Have Significant Growth Over the Forecast Period

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Removing Barriers Between Beauty and Wellness According to a recent report sponsored by the nonprofit Global Wellness Institute (GWI), good-looking people receive many advantages in life: they are more likely to be hired, given more pay, receive lesser punishments, and are assumed to be more intelligent and trustworthy. Conversely, a “disfiguredis-bad” bias can exist and people with minor facial disfigurements may be judged negatively and perceived as having undesirable personality traits (e.g., emotional instability, lazy versus hardworking). The complete report, “Beauty2Wellness: Mitigating Barriers and Building Bridges,” is available. The first study in the report, which was conducted by Anjan Chatterjee, MD, FAAN, University of Pennsylvania, tested this bias by asking observers to share initial impressions of 26 sets of pictures of faces (one affected by a disfigurement such as a carcinoma, a scar or small wound, or facial paralysis and one that had been treated to correct the disfigurement). The study confirmed that post-treatment faces were seen as having more positive personality traits than pre-treatment faces. “The link between beauty and wellness is not obvious. An unhealthy preoccupation with beauty can emphasize a “beauty is good” stereotype, where people are judged based on how they look rather than how they act,” said Dr. Chatterjee. “Our first study showed that people make deep inferences about a person’s personality based on superficial

features. Flawed faces are regarded as flawed people. The cosmetic industry can mitigate these judgments that likely adversely impacts people’s well-being at work and at play.”

Are People Aware of this Bias? In a second phase of the study, the researchers asked if people were aware of harbouring biases related to facial attributes. “Understanding biases helps us understand how people might overcome them,” said GWI Chair and CEO Susie Ellis. “This knowledge also contributes to building an egalitarian society that supports individual wellness, which is a goal of the Global Wellness Institute.” The results showed that people make automatic inferences about a person’s personality when they look at a face, and men are especially susceptible to adverse biases. The conclusion? Cosmetics could play an important role by limiting observable facial flaws, therefore, mitigating negative judgments.

Study Two: Building Bridges between Beauty and Wellness. The second study in the report, also sponsored by the GWI and conducted under the direction of Dr. Chatterjee, asked the question: If an automatic preoccupation with beauty – which is a $999 billion

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

commercial enterprise – can contribute to unfairness, how do we shift responses to beauty to emphasize wellness? By analyzing 10 years of Google news, the research team identified concepts that bridge beauty and wellness. With the exception of the category of “Culture and Self-care” (ar ts, education, entertainment, and cuisine) there was a notable similarity between the study’s linguistically derived categories, such as products and fitness, and the categories identified in a 2015 GWI report on the global wellness economy. Dr. Chatterjee noted that he is very pleased to be working with the Institute. “This relationship has pushed my research in new directions. The focus on wellness is critical to grounding this research and the industry as a whole.” He is also the author of The Aesthetic Brain: How We Evolved to Desire Beauty and Enjoy Art. “The new GWI study was rooted in the research and insights that Dr. Chatterjee explored in his book,” said Ellis. Research Sponsors: The GWI conducts research and reports on analytics impacting the $3.7 trillion wellness industry. This report was underwritten with support from Biologique Recherche, Comfort Zone, Hydrafacial, Immunocologie, OM4 Organic Male, and Performance Health.

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By Hana Hong - Real Simple

10 Beauty Trends That Continue to Dominate 2021 After a truly tumultuous year, I think it’s safe to say that we’re all eager for a beauty do-over. Alas, even our beauty routines weren’t immune to the effects of 2020—as salons closed everywhere, we were forced to become our own hairstylists, estheticians, colourists, and dermatologists overnight. But a few bad box dyes and many DIY face masks later, we learned to assimilate into a largely at-home beauty culture. As we mastered the lymphatic drainage massage, root touch-up, and brow grooming, we learned about the cathartic power of self-care and came out stronger than ever.

3. Advanced blue light protection

That’s why we’re so hopeful for 2021, 1 year where our beauty know-how is at an all-time high. Even if the first half of it is reserved for virtual Zoom sessions in our pajamas, we’re officially bidding adieu to 2020 (good riddance) and signaling the start of a new decade with open arms and new trends. From luxe hand sanitizers and probiotic skincare to antibacterial haircare and a reaccept1nce of our natural hair, these are the forecasted beauty trends experts predict will continue in the coming year.

4. Maskne Products

Thanks to the pandemic, just about everything in our lives has turned digital. But while the damaging effects of blue light on skin are no secret, companies are discovering more innovative ingredients that can help combat these effects. (Take Goodhabit, a recently launched brand built entirely on the concept of blue light protection.) With ingredients like rosa rubiginosa, licochalcone A, turmeric, and algae, available formulations are only becoming cooler and more effective.

them). We are beginning to see products that combine probiotics and prebiotics (i.e., synbiotics) to more effectively balance the microbiome.” 8. Cosmetic Procedures for “Zoom Face”

Face coverings are bound to become normalized even post-lockdown, making your skin more vulnerable to skin irritation. From soothing face sprays and face masks with zinc oxide to face masks made to alleviate the symptoms of wearing a face mask, you’re no longer doomed to break out whenever you go out.

Weeks of staring at ourselves on video c1alls have taken a toll. And we’re not just talking about Zoom fatigue—concerns of “Zoom Face” are also on the rise. According to Yelp Trend Expert Tara Lewis, Yelpers are flocking to the platform to investigate cosmetic procedures that address facial concerns like crow’s feet, eye bags, and forehead wrinkles. Sheila Farhang, MD, cosmetic surgeon and founder of Avant Dermatology, says that she has also witnessed this movement: “I am seeing an uptick in requests for eye area treatments, the most popular being lower eyelid blepharoplasty to reduce the appearance of under eye bags,” she says. “Before you come into the office, I recommend trying eye creams with caffeine to reduce swelling and brighten the undereyes.”

5. Liquid Lipstick

9. Scientific Scalp Care

It’s all about transfer-proof makeup in the age of COV I D . A c c o rd i n g t o C h a r l i e R i d d l e , Glob1aCreative Director at Stila Cosmetics, “Liquid lipstick in particular is making a big comeback this season. Women want products that will stay on throughout the day without having to worry about it coming off on their face mask.”

The skin-ification of haircare is officially becoming mainstream. That’s to say there’s much more overlap between haircare and skincare, especially with the new found focus on the scalp (which is also skin, after all). According to Dr. Farhang, some new trends include platelet-rich plasma (“liquid gold” injections that have scientific data that improve hair loss), an inside out approach (making use of supplements to help with hair health), and scalp-tox (botox on the scalp) for sweaty scalps.

1. Elevated Hygiene Hand soap and sanitizer might not be the most glamorous of beauty categories—but hey, where there is necessity there is luxury. Beauty brands have already started to enter the space for the first time, and they’re more bougie and luxurious than ever. Not only will the scents and packaging be upgraded, experts say formulations are also set to become more suitable and rehydrating for skin. “2020 was the year of harsh hand sanitizers and soaps,” says Joshua Ross, celebrity aesthetician in Los Angeles. “This will change in 2021 as the industry balances efficacy with sensoriality that is less irritating on the microbiome.” 2. Clean and Transparent Skincare Surveys have indicated that skincare brands touting ingredient transparency are gaining popularity. Consumers want to know what’s in their products, and rightfully so. This added pressure has caused companies to steer towards more sustainable formulas, whether via packaging, formulations, or reducing its carbon footprint. According to Barb Paldus, PhD, Codex Beauty founder and EWG board member, “If you can’t make the sustainable choice when creating a product, even if it costs you more, you don’t deserve to be creating a brand.”

6. Skinimalism One pandemic later, no-makeup makeup is back. Marrying skincare and makeup, it's what Pinterest is deeming the "new glow-up." According to Pinterest’s 2021 Trends Predictions report, people a1re forfeiting a complicated makeup routine to embrace slow beauty and let their natural skin texture shine through (think glowy skin and visible freckles). 7. Microbiome Health Microbiome health has been a buzzword in the industry for years, but Ross says that probiotic skincare will likely see a huge boom in this space. Brian Oh, CEO of Venn Skincare, agrees: “There are strong indications that microbiome skincare will be a big trend next year. This refers to an ecosystem of living microorganisms on our skin (there are billions of

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10. Embracing Natural Hair Low-maintenance is the new high heat, or at least according to Pinterest’s 2021 Trends Predictions report. That’s not to say you should swear off flat irons and blow dryers (if you’re into the blowout look, you do you), but don’t be afraid to give your strands a break by air-drying and embracing your natural texture. And another PSA: braids are back! “Pinners will get creative with braiding techniques (including bubble braids and box braids) that are protective, low-maintenance, and glamorous. Beyond the braids, style mavens will add their own personal touch with beads or colourful highlights,” Pinterest said in its report.

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Trending Ingredients With a new time upon us, there’s no better time than the present to make sure your skin care arsenal is packed with trendy products and ingredients. CBD, retinol, and glycolic acid are among the best ingredients for skin that we expect to make a noise. Trending Ingredient #1: CBD Oil (Cannabidiol) Cannabis has been a hot topic for quite some time now, and more recently, the discussion has entered the realm of dermatology thanks to reports that the controversial ingredient can benefit the skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties. As such, there’s a possibility that topical formulations with CBD oil may help reduce inflammation associated with certain inflammatory skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema. However, further research is required to understand the topical benefits of CBD oil and its properties. Keep in mind that products formulated with CBD oil will not give you a ‘high? because they do not contain THC, the chemical responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. If you want to give products formulated with cannabis a try, the AAD recommends testing a small area of skin with the formula first. Trending Ingredient #2: Polyhydroxy Acids When you think of chemical skin exfoliators, alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) surely come to mind. If you haven’t heard of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), it’s time to listen up. They are a new group of hydroxy acids—referred to as a new generation of AHAs—that ’s buzzing around social media and the skin care community. Similar to AHAs and BHAs, PHAs are chemical exfoliators that help slough away dead cells from the skin’s surface in an effort to promote an even tone and radiant appearance. While PHAs, AHAs, and BHAs have their similarities, according to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, PHAs offer similar benefits to AHAs but are less likely to irritate the skin. As such, PHAs can be suitable for use postprocedure and by sensitive skin types. What’s more, compared to their AHA cousins, PHAs are more moisturizing and can help strengthen skin barrier function. Some of the popular PHAs are gluconolactone and lactobionic acid. Trending Ingredient #3: Retinol We know, retinol has been around forever. But that

doesn’t change the fact that people are still swearing by its anti-aging benefits. Its track record speaks for itself as one of the best ingredients for skin, so don?t be surprised to see the launch of new products driven by this powerful vitamin A derivative. Retinol helps to fight key signs of aging like deep wrinkles and works to smooth and brighten your complexion. Trending Ingredient #4: Tea Tree Oil Let’s be honest—acne is something that everyone has struggled with at some point. This common skin concern has seemingly met its match with this trending skin care ingredient: tea tree oil! While not a one size-fitsall treatment, using this essential oil for acne is something worth looking into. Trending Ingredient #5: Bakuchiol Retinol is often thought to be a multi-tasking skin superhero, but there’s no denying that it’s a very strong, powerful ingredient. Some common side effects can include dryness and skin peeling, which can make it intolerable to some sensitive skin types. While there are ways to help sensitive skin types use retinol, a fairly-new ingredient called bakuchiol is being heralded as a gentler retinol alternative. The interesting part, however, is that bakuchiol—a compound found in the seeds and leaves of the psoralea corylifolia plant — shares no structural resemblance to retinoids. Even still, a clinical case study from the NCBI showed significant improvement in the appearance of lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, photodamage, and more after twice-a-day applications of skin care products formulated with bakuchiol over a 12-week period. The suggestion is that bakuchiol has great potential to deliver anti-aging effects similar to retinol. Trending Ingredient #6: Grapeseed Oil One skin care ingredient that has continued to maintain its popularity is grapeseed oil. If you simply haven’t had a chance to look into it, we’re here to fill you in on this trending ingredient. It’s no wonder this ingredient is the talk of the town since it has multiple benefits ranging from exfoliation to skin firming.

By Les Nouvelles Esthetiques - USA Edition plumping the skin with moisture, so it looks soft, smooth, and more youthful. Trending Ingredient #8: Niacinamide Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 you may have heard being tossed around. Whether you’re familiar with the ingredient or not, you should be! It offers various benefits, such as reducing visible signs of aging and acne, per the NCBI. Trending Ingredient #9: Vitamin C There are plenty of skin-benefiting antioxidants out there, but there’s a reason why experts continuously recommend vitamin C. When applied topically, Vitamin C can help neutralize free radical damage to the skin’s surface. Free radicals are unstable molecules induced by the environment, which can bind to the skin and wreak havoc in the form of premature aging, including visible fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and more. Moral of the story? Before leaving home each day, you may want to apply a vitamin C serum along with broadspectrum sunscreen for protection against harmful free radicals and to help improve skin radiance. Trending Ingredient #10: Aloe Vera Aloe vera is known to help with sunburn, but there are other skin benefits that you should be well-versed on. As it turns out, there are quite a few worth noting, which would explain why this ingredient is being named as one of the best for skin in 2021. Trending Ingredient #11: Squalane It’s not news that there are various skin care ingredients that can help you achieve a healthy-looking complexion and squalane is one you should consider. According to the NCBI, squalane is a derivative of human sebum that has antioxidant properties and works as an emollient to improve skin softness and flexibility. It helps lock your skin with hydration, something all skin types need. Trending Ingredient #12: Mushroom

Trending Ingredient #7: Hyaluronic Acid Hydrated skin never goes out of style, and few ingredients can help you achieve the intense levels of moisturization that hyaluronic acid can. For that reason, along with others, we don’t envision hyaluronic acid going anywhere anytime soon. The hydration powerhouse can hold up to 1000x its weight in water,

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While this fungi makes for a tasty dish, it’s also another skin care ingredient that should be on your radar. The mushroom has become a popular ingredient in skin care products since it has anti-aging, moisturizing, and antioxidant effects, per the Molecular Diversity Preservation International.

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Q&A with Victor Brick: Why the Wellness Pie Has Never Been Bigger By Beth McGroarty - VP, Research & Forecasting, Global Wellness Institute Victor Brick has 35 years of success in the fitness industry and is CEO of Planet Fitness Growth Partners (PFGP), the largest privately owned Planet Fitness franchise with 80+ clubs in the US and Australia. He’s chairman of the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation and a Global Wellness Summit Advisory Board member. Victor Brick predicts: • Nearly endless opportunity for wellness, as it becomes part of the healthcare delivery system. • Mental wellness as the industry growth-driver. • A limit to the digital fitness boom. • A new era of inclusivity/affordability, as the “other 80%” are now a huge market opportunity. • A new focus on resilience and positive stress. Beth McGroarty: So much has been written on how the pandemic has made wellness more important to people. What’s your take on the future of wellness? Brick: This is the most earth-shattering event since World War 2, and it will affect every aspect of civilization for the foreseeable future. It’s creating a whole new economy and mentality, and I believe there is nearly endless opportunity for wellness if we have the courage to push wellness to go where it belongs: as part of the healthcare delivery system. The pandemic revealed that everything we’ve been saying for years about prevention is painfully true. It’s our time; it’s a classic case of never wasting a crisis. Wellness will move to the true mainstream, and once it’s mainstream, everything changes: The medical world, governments and employers will all invest in “more wellness.” McGroarty: Why has healthcare resisted integrating preventative wellness approaches for so very long? Brick: The world operates in silos: The medical world, the political world and the wellness world all operate in their own silos, and they’re totally different cultures. There’s a complete lack of consensus on things like how to deal with a pandemic because we have not worked together. Even within the wellness community, everyone is in their own silo: The fitness community, the travel community and the wellness tech community often don’t know each other exists, and they’re all pushing their agenda rather than pushing wellness in general. We must unite around one message: We’re all a critical part of the healthcare delivery system. Period. No matter what space you’re in — fitness, yoga, nutrition — if it’s evidence grounded, you’re part of the healthcare delivery system. And that means we’re essential businesses; governments shouldn’t close us, and we shouldn’t be forced out of business. We must fight for our status as part of the healthcare delivery system, not just for our business survival, but because what we do saves lives. In the US, it’s crazy how the government has categorized fitness and wellness centers during the pandemic. They put us in the same category as bars and restaurants, perceived as recreation and leisure activity.

Another reason wellness hasn’t become part of healthcare is that we haven’t presented wellness as a multi-pronged total program. One market segment, like yoga, can send the message that they’re the answer and you don’t need anything else. We need a combination of so many things: a sound diet, stress reduction, strength training, healthy sleep — and you can expand that to dozens of modalities for true wellness. Every one of us in the wellness community needs to help others in the community and send a unified “integrated wellness” message. Another reason healthcare hasn’t embraced healthy lifestyle choices is that the benefits — especially for mental health have remained too anecdotal. We must fund and promote evidence-based research on the benefits of holistic approaches to wellness that the medical industry will accept. The good news is that powerful forces are coming together — from the lessons of the pandemic to young people — that will finally drive wellness to be far more integral to healthcare. Young generations really “get” holistic health and the centrality of mental wellness, and they’re going to shake up the traditional medical/healthcare system. McGroarty: Your foundation is devoted to changing how the world treats mental health — to think beyond medication and psychoanalysis. How important is the “mental” side in the future of wellness? Brick: Mental health will be the wellness industry growth driver and will be the mega-force that brings wellness and healthcare together. I started the John W. Brick Mental Health Foundation with my wife Lynne to honor my brother John, who suffered from schizophrenia his entire life and died from complications caused more by the medication he was taking than the disease. In all his years of treatment, in the best institutions in the world, he was never once put on a well-rounded program that included exercise, nutrition and other healthy behaviors. We called our foundation a “mental health” — rather than a mental illness — foundation, but we should probably change our name to a “mental wellness foundation.” People are focused on mental wellness like never before, and the stigma of “mental illness” has disappeared almost completely. The main reason that employees now give when they call in sick is depression. Can you imagine telling your boss that 20 years ago? The future: People seeking all kinds of wellness for the mental benefits. My wife and I have been in the fitness industry for 40 years, and for the first few decades, there were two main reasons people worked out: men to get bigger, women to get smaller. But a recent Euromonitor study found that for every major age group (Gen Z, millennials, Gen X, baby boomers), the #1 reason people now give for working out is for their mental wellbeing. McGroarty: You’ve spent decades building a bricksand-mortar fitness empire. Then COVID-19, and it’s

all digital, digital. What’s your long-term fitness bet? Digital? In-person? Brick: In health clubs, it used to be things like good service, clean equipment and aerobics. Today, digital has become table stakes: You have to be online, or you’re toast. But once something becomes table stakes, it’s a commodity, and the price plummets. How many online fitness programs today are free? Hundreds? Thousands? Everything is being done cheaper, faster and better, and if you jump into an online-only fitness business, you need to ponder if it will be financially sustainable two years from now. Understand what drives your economic engine. As Jim Collins argues in his classic business book, Good to Great, great companies are committed to change while preserving the core. We’re providing online classes both at our high-end, full-service Brick Bodies Space health clubs and at our budget Planet Fitness franchise clubs, but we’re looking at it to complement — not drive — our economic engine, which is health club memberships. There will always be value in the convenience of doing things at home: working, telemedicine, digital fitness. But it can only go so far because humans are profoundly social beings. Digital will never fully replace face-to-face meetings, work and fitness. The two most important things for mental wellness are coping skills and connectivity. While virtual can give you coping skills, it can never fully replace the connectivity of a live, in-person experience. That’s why I’m skeptical of the “new normal” and “pivot” concepts. Taking a dramatically different direction that defies human nature is not necessarily the right thing to do. Life will never be the same, but it never is. People will continue to embrace online programs, but they will want their lives back. Their hunger to reconnect will be powerful, and that’s the big, longterm opportunity in wellness. Digital may be the new “table stakes” in fitness, but the future is still, for the most part, face-to-face community. McGroarty: The wellness industry has focused on elites, while you’ve been in the budget fitness space for decades. There has been a cry for more inclusivity in wellness. Will this happen? Brick: In the US, the wake-up to social injustice is as powerful a force as the pandemic. Everyone in wellness needs to make their offerings more accessible, affordable and inclusive because it’s the right thing to do. But beyond the ethical imperative, the “other 80%” is where the huge market opportunities now lie. Supply-and-demand is changing fast. Let’s be frank: Twenty years ago, there was almost no demand for wellness programs in minority communities—or for a budget fitness model— because the average person didn’t want to work out. But I got into Planet Fitness because the affordable fitness space was an untapped opportunity. People always look at markets as pizza pies: There are only so many slices to go around. But we’ve taken the fitness industry to 18% to 23% of the population.

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Sponsored Advertorial Esse launches a two-part product designed to rewild the skin with Advanced Probiotics Fresh from the Esse labs, the new Probiotic Ampoule and Exclusion Mask creates an environment on the skin during treatment that favours the growth of beneficial probiotics for in-clinic microbiome intervention. The Probiotic Ampoule is the world's first live probiotic product to be used in-treatment containing a high dose of three species of live Lactobacillus bacteria (5 billion colony forming units per ml). Designed for use following facial massage, the product is freshly mixed by the therapist allowing time for the bacteria to activate, using the prebiotic nutrient to grow and divide. The activated probiotic is then applied to the skin for a powerful delivery of billions of live microbes to shift the skin microbiome towards a 'new normal', reducing inflammation and slowing down the ageing process. The live probiotic treatment is followed by the application of the setting Exclusion Mask, which creates an anaerobic environment on the skin, providing the perfect initial environment for the bacteria to thrive. This regulates the immune response and lowers inflammation and sensitivity. The bacteria naturally produce hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and microbial peptides which provides hydration and regulates the pH of the skin. For more info: visit www.esseskincare.com Tel: +27 (0)33 212 3506 email: info@esseskincare.com

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Introducing the world's first live probiotic facial, this highly advanced, expert-designed treatment uses billions of live bacteria to deliver actives. The facial offers a Lifting Massage, for ageing skin. It uses myofascial release and lifting techniques to rejuvenate tired, dull skin and boost circulation. The Esse Sensitive Massage, for sensitive and sensitised skin, uses gentle touch and the use of tools to calm the ner vous system and reduce inflammation. The skin is then covered with billions of live microbes containing three species of living Lactobacillus and followed by the application of the setting Exclusion Mask. This provides the pefect anaerobic environment for the bacteria to take start to colonise. The bacteria naturally produce hyaluronic acid, lactic acid and anti-microbial peptides which together provide hydration, protection and balances the skin. The treatment is concluded with the application of hydrating products to lock in moisture. Balance is restored through the rewilding of the skin, resulting in a radiant complexion.

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Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

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Skin that sparkles Are precious metals your skins new best friend? You’ve probably seen or heard of diamond and gold facials, and perhaps assumed it was just pampering taken to a new and decadent extreme. However, passing fad it is not. Precious elements have been used in luxury skincare throughout history, and not for entirely spurious reasons. The Chinese Chou dynasty used gold on their skin, a habit taken up by geishas for 300 years, while the last Empress of China used pearl powder and was famed for her youthful appearance. Cleopatra is said to have worn a mask of gold every night to preserve her beauty. Skincare companies today claim that gold has powerful anti-ageing properties. Twenty four carat gold in modern face creams is said to increase collagen production, boost elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and age spots. Some product houses say gold flakes merely look pretty, but do nothing unless broken down small enough to actually penetrate the skin. So if you are going for gold, make sure it’s colloidal (a solution which contains tiny particles of the element in question). The scientific evidence to back up any of this is rarer than gold itself. But that doesn’t stop folk in Beverly Hills parting with just under two thousand dollars for a Black Pearl Gold Cleopatra Mask, or London’s rich paying for a gold flake mask at “Oro Gold Beauty Clinic” on the King’s Road. True, the properties of gold are not to be entirely scoffed at – in medicine it is given to people with arthritis, and currently being researched as a possible treatment for cancer. However, this does not mean it is automatically good for our skin. Some dermatologists consider gold a serious skin irritant, so those with sensitive skins might want to give the 24 carat face masks a wide berth. Stick with the reputable creams that contain other ingredients – such as Temple Spa’s Skin Truffle which contains black truffles, grapeseed, champagne, gold

and silk elements, and diamond powder. Silver was used by the ancients to heal wounds and treat ulcers. Today, its antimicrobial and antibacterial elements make it a prime candidate to treat skin ailments, from acne to fine lines and wrinkles. Again more evidence is needed, but you could try Kerstin Florian Mineral Wellness Soak, which contains minerals and salts, as well as hand harvested crystals and colloidal silver. Colloidal platinum is said to be an antioxidant, and researchers in Japan found that platinum nanoparticles prolonged the life of worms amake of that what you will). It is also used in cancer treatments as it has the ability, in certain chemical forms, to inhibit the division of living cells. According to the blurb on La Prairie’s Platinum Rare, platinum “helps maintain the skin’s electrical balance”, which apparently “protects the skin’s DNA, and replenishes moisture continuously for a look of soft splendour”. Generally, it’s used in such tiny (nano) amounts in beauty products, it’s unlikely to have any visible effects. Copper peptides, while less luxurious sounding, have more positive research results to support their collagen promoting and antioxidant properties – thus Kiehl’s Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream may not actually be overstating its point. Back on earth, albeit in higher echelons, some lauded skincare lines are using diamonds to achieve visible results; most notably The Natura Bisse Diamond Collection, available in Harrods and Liberty, with treatments at Agua Spas inLondon, Stanley House and Sequoia Spa at The Grove. So, what do diamonds do for us? Some experts agree that diamonds may have light reflective properties that make skin look younger, while

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

diamond infused products might also work as exfoliants. The idea that diamonds have anti-ageing properties or can actually penetrate the skin barriers, however, does not go down so well in most dermatological circles. Dr Adam Friedman, consultant dermatologist at the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic says, “It sounds like a good way of spending money for nothing. The reality is that gold and diamonds are completely unreactive.” Many cosmetic chemists point out that diamonds, gold and platinum have been used as a delivery system for certain cancer drugs as a way of shielding the drug from the body’s defence system. However, it seems a rather big leap from that to the idea that anti-ageing ingredients will penetrate deeper if sprinkled with crushed engagement rings. Yet it is one that Yannis Alexandrides, plastic surgeon and founder of 111Skin, is happy to take. “We use black diamond microspheres to transport active ingredients including vit+min C, hyaluronic acid, collagen, and arbutin to the deepest layers of the skin, where they target cells for regeneration,” he says. Melissa Vitalis, the Beverly Wilshire spa director has a more realistic view of the kind of client their Natura Bisse diamond infused facials attract. “They’ve had a busy year and want a little well deserved pampering and so book the best facial that we have on our menu.” Ultimately it seems, until the evidence is in, that precious elements (re the rather glamorous icing on the more active, nuts-and-bolts ingredients of products and treatments: something to add a little expensive sparkle to the festive party season, and hopefully to our skin too.

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The Physical Activity Market Is Currently Engaging Only 1/3 of the World’s Population By Katherine Johnston and Ophelia Yeung, GWI Senior Research Fellows

The $828 billion global physical activity sector, while enormous, is currently only engaging about one-third of the world’s population. According to The Lancet, one-quarter to one-third of adults around the world are not getting sufficient physical activity by any method (via natural movement or recreational activities). The large and growing share of the world’s population with insufficient physical activity represents a major ongoing public health challenge, especially alongside rising rates of obesity and chronic disease. The solution lies in addressing the major barriers to physical activity across all spheres of life—from leisure options to increasing the natural movement embedded in daily life (i.e., transportation, domestic, and occupational physical activity). To explore how to engage more people in physical activity, GWI reviewed dozens of national and cross-country surveys and studies that collect information on the motivations for and barriers against participation in physical activities. These studies cover more than 60 countries across all regions of the world. While these studies employed different methodologies, were conducted in different languages, and varied in the way they framed questions and responses, in aggregate, they reveal important findings about physical activity motivations and barriers. • Motivations: When adults were asked why they engage in regular physical activity, by far the most cited reason is for maintaining good health (also“physical wellbeing,” “to feel good,” “to be fit,” and other similar responses). The next most cited reasons are stress reduction or relaxation and for fun or pleasure. Other motivations include being with friends and family, building muscle strength, to look good, weight loss, to be out in nature, and to feel challenged/fulfilled or for self-improvement.

When children and teens were asked why they participate in sports, exercise, or physical activities, they most often say they do so for fun and to be with friends and not for health reasons. • Barriers: For those who do not engage in regular physical activity, the most significant barrier for adults is lack of time, followed by lack of interest (“not a priority,” “too much trouble,” “prefer to do something else,”etc.) and physical condition or health-related reasons (illness, injury, disability, age, pregnancy, etc.). Lack of motivation or habit is also a significant barrier for adults; many report that they are too lazy to exercise or they have no habit of doing so. For children and teens, the most frequently mentioned barriers are lack of time (due to schoolwork) and lack of a convenient facility or activity near home. Other reasons cited by youth include not having fun and preferring to do something else (such as spending time with friends). It is not a surprise that those who are physically active cite health as their main motivation. It is also not surprising that time constraints are the most significant barrier for those who are inactive, especially in higher-income countries. While most people are aware of the benefits of physical activity, their busy lives—work, school, family obligations preclude them from being active when it competes with other priorities. More surprising is that physical conditions (e.g., health-related reasons, illness, age, or the perceived inability to engage in physical activity) are frequently mentioned as a barrier, more so than cost/money constraints or access to facilities. A lack of interest/motivation and lack of access to facilities are cited as barriers more often in low-income countries than in wealthier regions. Personal safety and being uncomfortable at a gym are also mentioned as a concern by women and girls in some countries where gender and social norms discourage female participation in sports and outdoor recreation, prevent activities in coed settings, or prohibit physical activity for females in general. For example, in one study in Central America, girls reported multiple barriers, such as lack of access to fields and facilities, lack of equipment, lack of money, lack of parental permission, lack of clothing, and safety. In the same study, boys rarely mentioned these as constraints, and they regarded the lack of time as their most important barrier.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

GWI’s full report, Move to be Well: The Global Economy of Physical Activity, provides numerous examples of innovations, new business models, and public policy initiatives that can help overcome barriers to physical activity, increase participation, and extend the many benefits of movement to more people around the world.

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Skinimalism:

The new no-makeup trend you don’t have to be afraid of By Lamelle Research Laboratories Heard about “skinimalism”? It’s the move towards barely-there makeup that allows glowing, healthy looking skin to take center stage. According to social media platform Pinterest, it’s one of this year’s biggest beauty trends. Still, while dewy foundations and cleverly placed highlighter can help you create a great “no makeup” look, the first prize will always be truly radiant skin. But for this, you’re going to want to invest in a brilliant skincare routine, not powders and paint.

Glow Baby Glow Let’s talk about light! When a surface is incredibly smooth and polished it becomes reflective. A roughtextured surface, however, will always be dull looking. This, in a nutshell, is why exfoliation is key to radiantlooking skin. Still, not all exfoliators are created equally. Many still make the mistake of using those that are extremely grainy, causing micro-tears in their skin that lead to inflammation. This is why, at Lamelle Research Laboratories, we believe chemical exfoliation is best and serve up a brilliant selection of in-salon peels. We can also help you peel and reveal at home with our Corrective exfoliators. It contains Cathepsin D, an enzyme produced by our own bodies, to stimulate your skin’s natural exfoliation

process. Use it two or three times a week and you’ll soon start to enjoy smoother, more radiant looking skin. Something else you’ll want in your skinimalism artillery is Lamelle Skin Essence Rejuvenate Priming Liquid range. Due to its refreshing, water-like texture, you might make the mistake of considering it a toner, but it’s so much more than that. An innovative skincare priming fluid that will boost your skin’s hydration, calm irritation, and serve up a gorgeous-looking glow in a matter of weeks. Another reason to adore our Skin Essence is the fact that it prepares your skin to gain maximum benefit from any other active ingredients you use after it. Speaking of which…

Brighten like a Boss If it’s a gorgeous glow you’re after, you’ll want to know all about vitamin C. Not only does this superstar antioxidant stimulate your skin to create more collagen but it’s well known for its skin-brightening benefits. Still, it’s a case of buyer beware. Many products will be quick to tell you they include vitamin C, but it won’t be in one of its more powerful forms nor will it be at a useful concentration. Happily, our

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Correctives Recharge CE cream contains 20% ultrapotent ascorbic acid. We even offer Correctives Vita C 30 that contains 30%, the highest concentration of non-prescription ascorbic acid on the block! Still, as Spiderman would say, with great power comes responsibility. At Lamelle, we realise not everyone can tolerate such a high concentration of vitamin C. As a result, we poured tireless research into creating our Correctives Vita C-Lipid Serum. It contains a very particular form of lipid-soluble vitamin C called tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. Due to its affinity with oil, it’s able to penetrate deeper into the skin without causing irritation where it can deliver magnificent results. This way, even those with sensitive skin can get their glow on!

The Bottom Line Ultimately, if you’re wanting to get in on the skinimalism trend, you can do so today by creating the illusion of barefaced beauty with makeup. Or you can invest in the kind of products that – in just a few weeks – will make you proud to show off your naturally radiant skin. So what’s it going to be. Are you ready for your glow-up?

spa therapies know it, everything we’re doing is for everyone else and there’s nothing left in our lives that provides fuel and inspiration for ourselves. When you understand the power you have when your health and wellbeing is a priority, you start to see the possibilities and opportunities you’re missing out on by dismissing the things you enjoy doing. Feed your health and wellbeing by making it a priority and giving it as much attention as you give to everything else.

Instead, learn to share the load. Ask someone to help you. Let go of the things, people, places and projects (or parts of them) that suck your energy and make you feel tired. The more you share and let go, the more you can accomplish and succeed.

You have to isolate yourself to get the work done.

The very definition of perfection shows that it’s unachievable. There is no perfect. There is simply the very best you can do in any one moment. Letting go of perfectionism isn’t about not wanting or caring about doing a good job anymore. It’s about accepting the unique and extraordinary human that you are and celebrating the achievements and success that come naturally as a result.

Life is noisy and chaotic, and it can feel like it’s hard to concentrate with everything swirling around you. Sometimes, it feels like the only way to get things done is to isolate yourself so you can find some peace and quiet. Some of us also feel like the act of isolating ourselves can protect the people we care about from the stress of the load we’re carrying. The problem is, when you create physical and emotional distance from your family and friends, it makes it harder to communicate. It also places you in an isolation bubble where your view and perspective of life can become skewed. There’s a great deal of research showing the results of being stressed and exhausted for long periods of time and the effect on mental health. Staying connected with your immediate circle is critical to your health and wellbeing.

Myths, Lies and Facts about Burnout By Bronwen Sciortino, International Author and Simplicity Expert It’s become normal – and something of a bragging point – to be able to point at how hard you’re working. It’s like we think we’ve confused being burnout with being successful. The second we adopted social media as a staple in our lives, we also adopted a highly visible way of life. We find ourselves enmeshed in a need to prove our worth, to show how busy and successful we’re are every minute of every day. It creates a false environment. Our minds are in overdrive, constantly working through how to best position the smallest piece of news to give it maximum effect in the public space. But the reality is that we don’t actually enjoy our moments in life. We don’t really experience the little things anymore. Why? Because we’re constantly locked in a mindset of comparison.

You have to work long hours or you won’t get ahead in your career. Because we live in a highly visible world, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you always have to look busy for you to be seen to be successful. Unless your definition of success is always being exhausted and running yourself into the ground, forcing yourself to work longer and longer hours doesn’t help you get ahead in your career … it simply makes you stressed and exhausted, and it puts pressure on your health and wellbeing. Instead, start to work out how you can manage your energy in better ways so that you always feel like you have lots of energy. Then you can ch.nnel that energy to help you achieve so much more. If you sacrifice now, you’ll benefit later.

Living like this not only sees you living under constant stress, but it’s also completely exhausting. And when you allow these two elements to continually run in your life, you’re heading straight for burnout. Here are common realities we tell ourselves that force us onto a direct collision course with burnout: If you stop what you’re doing, you’ll be letting everyone down. All of us juggle way too many balls, and we’re always saying “yes” to people, projects and responsibilities that we’re not interested in, and that we really don?t enjoy doing, often because we’re wired to be part of community and to be of service. This leaves us overworked and overwhelmed and both cause significant levels of stress. Working out what’s important to you, and identifying the things you really enjoy doing, is really important. Then, teach yourself to say “no” to the things that don’t make these lists, so you can easily fit things into your day and create a balance in the things you need to get done every day. If you don’t do it, it won’t get done. This is a big one! So many of us step into being a martyr, attaching ourselves to the story of “I was the only one willing to get this done”. The reality is, as long as you keep saying “yes” no one else needs to step in and complete a task, nor do they ever get the opportunity to have a turn at completing the task. Get comfortable with allowing a period of silence to occur when someone says there’s something that needs to get done. When you don’t immediately step in, someone else will take the space. Doing this makes it easier for you to not always be taking too much on.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

“No pain, no gain”, right? WRONG!! The more you push yourself, and force yourself to work harder, the closer you take yourself to experiencing burnout. Being stressed and exhausted all the time because you’ve sacrificed looking after yourself now to give everything to your job doesn’t get you ahead. In fact, it’s more likely to set you behind. When you push the boundaries of your health, you’re actually gambling that you’re not going to push yourself past a breaking point. And there’s the rub: the thing with breaking points is that they’re not visible; they just happen. When you break, it’s never a slight fracture; it’s always a significant event and it always takes a significant period of time to recover from. Set your life up so that your health and wellbeing are just as important as everything else you do and you’ll benefit now, as well as later. It’s only costing you some “time”. You’re just giving up a bit of time to get things done … aren’t you? If you’re already overworked and overwhelmed, then time is a precious commodity. Why would you willingly give it away without a thought? Throwing time away unconsciously adds significant pressure to your life, and pressure brings stress and exhaustion. It’s like a fast-track to burnout. Start to get really conscious with the way you alloc.te your time. Spend it wisely and move away from things that use it in ways that aren’t serving you. You don’t have time to do what you enjoy. We feel the pressure of getting ahead in our careers so keenly that it’s like living in a pressure cooker that needs to let off steam. To cope with this, we start to prioritise the things we have to do for everyone else, and we start to drop off the things that are for us. While this might create time and space initially, the problem is that we continue to say “yes” too often and before we

You can do it all on your own. Sometimes,when you’re under pressure, it can feel like it’s so much easier – and quicker – if you just do it yourself. We’ve also been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness, and in today’s highly visible way of life we don’t want to do something that might make us look like we’re falling behind. Trying to do everything, for everyone, all of the time accelerates your face-to-face meeting with burnout. The more pressure you put yourself under, the more stress you experience, and when this happens you trigger physical and emotional responses in your body that affect how your physical and energetic systems operate. The longer you let these run out of control, the more quickly you’ll find yourself in an up close and personal relationship with burnout.

You have to be perfect … all the time.

Focus on finding the attributes and characteristics that make you uniquely you. What is it you find so simple to do, that others find amazing? Know, without any doubt, the contribution you bring to everything you do. And just as importantly, know that perfectionism doesn’t have a pl.ce in your life anymore. We don’t have to be stressed or exhausted to get ahead. Burnout isn’t a badge of honour; there are no awards given to you when you’re in the depths of your recovery. Life isn’t about being the best survivor, it's about finding the way to thrive so you can allow the best version of yourself to shine. Give your health and wellbeing the position in your life it deserves, because doing that is truly the simplest pathway to success. Bronwen Sciortino is an internationally renowned author a simplicity expert who is interviewed globally about her simple and practical steps to living differently. An author, mentor, speaker and facilitator, Bronwen spends every day teaching people to de-stress, build resilience and embrace change. Working with people globally through corporate programs, conference platforms, retreats, profession.al mentoring and in the online environment Bronwen shares her secrets to success and inspires individuals to simplify their lives and embrace change.

You have to isolate yourself to get the work done.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

You have to be perfect … all the time.

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By Stacey Leasca What Is a Lash Lift and Why Is Everyone Talking About It? Lash lifts and tints are one of the biggest beauty trends right now–here's how they're different from eyelash extensions and fake eyelashes, If getting bigger, fuller, curlier eyelashes is on your beauty resolution list, then you've probably noticed the buzz surrounding eyelash lifts. According to Google's trend report, people were very interested in eyelashes last year. Four of the five most popular beauty searches on Google were related to making your eyes pop, with “what is a lash lift" falling second behind "how to apply magnetic lashes." The third, fourth, and fifth most popular beauty searches were, respectively: "how to remove individual eyelashes," "what hair color looks best on me," "and "how to do cat eye." As the newest “it” trend on the beauty block, lash lifts are making major waves–and for good reason. Not only does the procedure require little effort, it also lasts longer than eyelash extensions with fewer potential side effects. You can also customize your results from the shape of the curl to adding a tint if you don't plan on wearing mascara every day.

and "a realistic curl," Courtney Buhler, founder of Sugarlash PRO–which also sells a lash lift kit and offers classes so you can DIY fuller lashes at home–told Elle. If you're going on vacation or prefer a low-maintenance makeup routine, you can opt for a lash lift and tint to deepen the color of your eyelashes in addition to the more dramatic curve.

reactions,” Jacqueline R. Carrasco, MD., an oculoplastic surgeon at Wills Eye Hospital, told Women’s Health. And, as Michael J. Earley, Ph.D., doctor of optometry and associate dean of academic affairs at The Ohio State University College of Optometry, noted, many technicians use proprietary formulas, making them difficult to test.

2. How does the lash lift procedure work?

"Although we have not observed specific incidents in which patients have had bad experiences with keratin lash lifts, we advise our patients to use caution when applying unknown formulations in or around the eyes,” he said.

Sable Yong, a writer for Allure, went through the lash lift procedure herself. As she explained, the eyelash lift begins with a consultation with your technician. After walking through your goals (like if you want lashes pushed upward or fanned out), the work begins. The technician separates your lower and upper lashes and applies a silicone pad to your upper lid. He or she then glues your lashes to the pad to start shaping your eyelashes into a deeper curl. Three lotions containing the right chemicals are then applied, and each one sets for 10 minutes–meaning the entire treatment takes about 30 minutes to one hour. 3. How long does a lash lift last?

Celebrity makeup artists — like Hrush Achemyan, who works with the full-lashed Kardashian-Jenner fam and boasts 2.3 million followers on Instagram— have also been showing off the results of their very own lash lift and tint over the past few years, helping the trend gain traction in mainstream beauty. Here’s everything you need to know about lash lifts if you're considering trying one for yourself.

According to Elysee Zhadikpur, US-based master educator for the brand Yumi Lashes, a lash lift can last anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks. This will depend on how quickly your own lashes grow and regenerate and how much care of your eyelashes you take. You can try to extend the results by using eyelash growth serums, but the treatment is not meant to be permanent.

1. What is a Lash Lift? 4. Are there side effects to a lash lift? A lash lift is a semi-permanent treatment best described as a perm for your eyelashes. "A lift is essentially what your lash would be doing with a really good mechanical curler, so [giving] "nice shape upward

Like all good things in life, lash lifts can come with a potentially dark side. “If you’re using a chemical to paint the lashes, there are definitely risks of allergic

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

5. Are there alternatives to an eyelash lift? If the idea of putting keratin chemicals on your eyelashes is too much, there are other options. A number of growth serums are on the market, including Peter Thomas Roth’s Lashes to Die For Turbo Conditioning Lash Enhancer. The formula promises to make your natural eyelashes grow longer, fuller, and more densely than before by targeting all three stages of the hairgrowth cycle. Not everyone has positive reactions to eyelash growth serums, though, so make sure you do your due diligence on potential side effects before starting to use one. If you’re hoping for something more, you could also look into good ol' fashioned eyelash extensions. However, these too can cause side effects and last only two to three weeks, meaning you’ll need to shell out a lot more money for upkeep. Of course, you could always stick to mascara (and 380,000 people love this one). But, then again, you could always double town with a lift and "a bit of makeup for the ultimate Disney princess look.

www.rapidlash.co.za

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The Altered Aesthetic Landscape Forever

By Julie Keller Callaghan - Well Defined

AEDIT, a technology-driven platform that simplifies and safeguards the search for aesthetic solutions and qualified providers, has announced the results of its inaugural consumer trends survey of 1,000 men and women, ages 18 and older. Findings indicate that Millennials and Gen Z now account for the largest age group interested in aesthetic procedures. The pandemic has not slowed down this demographic’s interest in pursuing self confidence and self-expression through beauty. The rise of video conferencing for work and widespread communication as well as rapid advances in beauty technology have helped to strengthen demand for aesthetic treatments and procedures.

A full 29% of Millennials agree that using video conferencing makes them more interested in getting aesthetic treatments. The biggest areas of concern for those who engage in regular video conferences are their teeth (39%), weight (33%), stomach /midsection (28%), under eye pouches (23%), and hair thinning/loss (16%). Despite spending significantly more time at home in 2020, demand for treatments remained high with 23% of respondents stating that they are more interested in aesthetic treatments now that they can recover at home during the pandemic.

Video Conferencing

AEDIT founder, CEO and facial plastic surgeon William A. Kennedy III, M.D., says he believes technology is revolutionizing the beauty industry. “It places more emphasis on personalized experiences, giving consumers the opportunity to be more in control of their beauty decisions, whether that be virtually trying on lipstick before purchasing, or in our case, trying on a cosmetic procedure before booking a consultation,” he says. Moreover, 44% of survey respondents wish there was a way to see exactly how surgery would affect their face before taking the leap. This desire is even greater for younger women, with 50% of Millennials and Gen Z and 51% of women showing keen interest in the ability to predict the outcome of aesthetic procedures.

Never before have men and women been so bombarded with footage of themselves on video. With the advent of daily Zoom meetings, Google Hangouts, and FaceTimes, people who are not used to viewing themselves on screen were suddenly thrust into their very own spotlight. This led to nitpicking their appearances. AEDIT’s survey found that those interested in non-surgical and surgical treatments participate in video conferencing meetings significantly more often than those who do not. In fact, 39% of respondents who use video conferencing weekly reported interest in non- surgical aesthetic treatments while 37% reported interest in surgical treatments.

The Dawn of a Digital Age of Aesthetics

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Owning It is In. So, is Good Skin. Millennials have long been influencing beauty trends as the first generation who came of age during the digital revolution. However, Baby Boomers tend to eclipse them when it comes to seeking out a tweak, lift, or poke in the search to remain naturally ageless. A shift is happening. The AEDIT survey showed that Millennials and Gen Z have significantly more interest in non-surgical and surgical treatments age 35 and up and are more likely to already have seen a doctor or had a surgical treatment than their Gen X and Boomer peers. Millennials, and now Gen Z, largely embrace aesthetic edits with open arms and zero apologies, with 40% stating that they do not feel ashamed or embarrassed about getting aesthetic treatments. This population is specifically interested in aesthetic treatments to look naturally more attractive. It follows that the survey also uncovered a jump in participants using facial skincare products,despite a decrease in using cosmetics in 2020.

Looking Ahead AEDIT board member, Andrew Frankel, predicts, “There might be a lull in elective surgery once the pandemic is cleared and life returns to normal, because people will likely not want to be home recuperating at that point. As such, promoting injectables and nonsurgical procedures will be fruitful right as the world opens up again and people wish to look their best upon reentry.”

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Why There's No Such Thing as a Healthy Sun Tan By Lamelle Research Laboratories A healthy tan? Turns out there’s no such thing. Not according to most of the scientific evidence we have so far, anyway. In fact, all the evidence points to the exact opposite: a suntan is bad for you. Here’s why: The 3 Myths of A “Healthy” Suntan

It can reflect light from a smooth skin surface for a healthy luminescent look (which implies healthy skin cell turnover and smooth complexion, rather than colour). Or it can diffuse light from an uneven, poor textured skin surface, which doesn’t give you a good glow.

So What as a Suntan Then, Really? “A tan simply is not normal,” Dr. Wagemaker explains. “There is no such thing as a ‘healthy’ tan because the tan itself is already an immune response to a mutation that’s happened in your skin. “The perceived browning of your skin you get from a tan is your body’s desperate attempt to try and recover from a state of physiological damage. That’s why you peel afterward – your body’s trying to get rid of the damage before it spreads.

“There’s this perception that if you get just a light tan at the start of summer, your skin will naturally be better protected from the sun,” says Dr Bradley Wagemaker, founder and Medical Director of Lamelle Research Laboratories. “This is unfortunately not true. And I think it stems from a few common misconceptions about our skins and the sun.”

When we talk about uneven skin texture, you know that dehydration will be one of the main culprits. Sunlight definitely dehydrates your skin. So, no, a suntan doesn’t provide a glow. See our post on how to get truly glowing skin.

Researchers looked into this and found that, naturally, sun exposure does trigger your skin to produce more melanin (that’s why your skin seems to go browner). Melanin is your body’s natural “sunscreen”. “But, I think everyone has hugely overestimated just how UV-protective the melanin in your skin really is,” Dr Wagemaker explains. “Turns out that the amount of sun protection melanin offers is only equivalent to SPF 3. “And that’s simply not enough to really protect you against the sun.”

Another myth that’s rooted in some truth. Your body needs Vitamin D for a healthy heart, immune - and nervous system. It’s absolutely vital. Your body only produces Vitamin D when exposed to UV light. So, unfortunately, people use this as an excuse to spend more time in the sun.

“And you’re essentially strutting around showing off your mutated skin cells. I’d much rather get proper sun protection, and then, if you want the brown look, reach for the self-tan instead.”

But that’s not 100% correct. Yes, you need UV light to produce Vitamin D, but it turns out that you really don’t need that much. Online, most self-proclaimed pundits say you need at least 30 minutes of sun per day for healthy Vitamin D. That’s not taking into account our individual skins. Especially fairer skin is much more adept at producing enough Vitamin D even in low light conditions. So, it’s probably more like you should get only an absolute maximum of 30 minutes of sun-protected sun exposure per day. If even that much. Remember, our technology today is way more advanced. In fact, you can now totally avoid the sun, without losing any Vitamin D, thanks to Vitamin D supplements. That’s exactly what

Lamelle Research Laboratories has a few ranges of sun protection products that also help keep your skin looking youthful. For advanced sun and DNA damage protection for younger skin, see our Nourish range. And, if the aging damage is already quite far along, try Lamelle Helase 50. There are also loads of powerful serums that will help protect and even brighten your skin among our Lamelle Correctives. And you can even ask your therapist about special professional treatments for sun damage.

Myth 3: You Need Vitamin D, So You Should Spend Myth 1: A “Light” Tan Protects Your Skin From UV More Time In The Sun

Myth 2: A Sun Tan Gives Your Skin A Glow There’s this misconception that if you get a tan, your bronze skin will give you a healthy summery “glow”. We actually have evidence of the opposite. When asked what a skin glow actually is, Dr Wagemaker explains that it’s about how your outer skin structure reflects light.

the D3 in Lamelle Research Laboratories pigmentation supplement Ovelle D3 stands for – it has added Vitamin D3, so you don’t have to go into direct sunlight at all.

Get Proper Sun Protection

For more information visit: www.lamelle.co.za

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These 13 Supplements have By Sarah Yang Age-Reversing Effects While getting older is just a fact of life and something you can't avoid, most of us want to make sure we're doing all we can to feel and look our healthiest as each birthday passes by. It's not all about erasing wrinkles, sagging skin, and gray hairs. Sure. If you want to do that, by all means, go for it. But you also want to make sure you're doing all you can to take care of yourself as you age. That means eating well, staying active, and taking care of your mental health. Doing all of the above should be your main defense against the not-so-great effects of aging, but there are some other things you can try to ensure you're going the extra mile when it comes to your health. One of those things to consider is taking supplements and vitamins that could help support the process. "Aging is a result of normal biological functioning where there are marked changes in our cells," explains registered dietitian Maya Feller, of Brooklyn-based Maya Feller Nutrition. "The process of aging can be accelerated secondary to diseases. We do know that antioxidants from foods and some supplements may act in a protective manner, reducing cellular damage. The general recommendation is to reduce the intake of pro-inflammatory foods that exacerbate systemic inflammation." And while there isn't a magic supplement or vitamin that can stop the aging process altogether and turn you into Benjamin Button, those antioxidants might make a big difference. Serena Poon, chef, nutritionist, Reiki master, and founder of the Culinary Alchemy program, says antioxidants balance out the effects of free radicals, which are naturally created by your body but also come from environmental factors like pollution, chemicals, and smoke. "If free radicals and antioxidants are out of balance in the body, it can cause oxidative stress, which plays a role in several age-related diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, dementia, cancer, atherosclerosis, vascular diseases, obesity, osteoporosis, and metabolic syndromes." Before you start buying all the anti-aging supplements out there, it's important to note that they shouldn't be your only solution. Again, healthy eating, exercise, and good lifestyle habits can really get you far. If you do decide to look into vitamins and supplements, it's recommended to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional who knows your personal medical history. The last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money on a product and find out it's going to hurt your body. "Safe supplementation is key," Feller says. "There is no one size that fits all, and any supplement recommendations need to be tailored to the individual based on their current health status as well as needs." And with that in mind, if you're ready to learn more about which vitamins and supplements can help, the experts weighed in below. 1. Vitamin A This fat-soluble vitamin can help you maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin, says registered dietitian Stephanie Carter, founder of Carter Hall Lifestyle.

"Retinoids are compounds of both natural and biologically active forms of vitamin A—retinol, retinal, and retinoic acid," she says. "They are some of the most effective substances slowing the aging process by encouraging cellular turnover, stimulating collagen, treating acne and psoriasis, and softening wrinkles. In fact, vitamin A is the first vitamin approved by the FDA as an anti-wrinkle agent that changes the appearance of the skin surface and has anti-aging effects." 2. Vitamin C Vitamin C was a popular recommendation among the experts we talked to. It's another nutrient that can promote youthful skin, and it helps out with collagen production. "Vitamin C actually reknits the collagen rebar back together after it's been damaged by sunlight," explains Steven Gundry, MD, author, medical director at the International Heart and Lung Institute, and founder of Gundry MD. "If you don't have any vitamin C, that collagen doesn't get remixed together, and you get those wrinkles and crevices. So you could have all the collagen in the world, but if you don't have vitamin C, you're not going to complete the process of linking collagen together. I really recommend that you take an extended timerelease vitamin C of 1000mg twice a day." Another bonus for this vitamin? Registered dietitian nutritionist Shana Spence, founder of The Nutrition Tea, says the vitamin has cancer-fighting properties. 3. Vitamin D This was also a unanimous recommendation from the experts. That's because vitamin D plays a crucial role in protecting your bones. "Aging is associated with a reduction of being able to synthesize vitamin D in the skin upon sun exposure," Spence says. The vitamin can also boost energy and mood levels. 4. Vitamin B12 "As we get older, our bodies become naturally worse at absorbing vitamin B12, even if we get enough of the vitamin in their diet," Carter says. "If a blood test shows low levels of B12, a doctor may prescribe an oral supplement that contains very high doses of the vitamin, intramuscular shots of vitamin B12, or both." The nutrient also helps your energy levels. 5. Coenzyme Q10 Also known as CoQ10, it's an antioxidant that our bodies produce. "It plays essential roles in energy production and protects against cellular damage," Spence says. "Supplements can help reduce an accumulation of free radicals that accelerates the aging process and age-related disease." 6. Prebiotics and Probiotics Gut health is pretty important, as it can have an effect on all the other systems in your body. Taking probiotics and prebiotics can help your skin health. "One of the best ways to slow down the aging process is to use prebiotics," Gundry says. "Those are the foods that feed friendly bacteria.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

7. Calcium You should team up calcium and vitamin D for bone health and to prevent osteoporosis. "Calcium helps build and maintain bones while vitamin D promotes calcium absorption in the gut," Carter says. "Older adults absorb less calcium from their diets, which is thought to be caused by a deficiency of vitamin D." You can also get calcium from dairy products and leafy greens. 8. Omega-3 "Research has shown that omega-3 supplementation or you can also get omega-3s from eating fish, flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, can reduce the shortening of telomeres DNA sequences, which shorten with age and of which the shortening is associated with age-related disease," Poon says. 9. Collagen Collagen and elastin both work to give the skin its shape, and vitamin C helps support both of them. "Collagen is an essential component in connective tissue, providing structure to much of the body, including bones, skin, tendons, and ligaments," Carter says. "Essentially, collagen helps keep the skin plump and firm. However, as we age, we begin to notice wrinkles and lines. Vitamin C acts as a cofactor for amino acids proline and lysine, which help stabilize collagen against free radical damage. Elastin is a necessary protein that provides the skin with elasticity of tissues. Similar to collagen, elastin production slows with aging, and existing elastin breaks down, resulting in wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. Vitamin C is beneficial in promoting elastin synthesis, helping to slow the aging process." And because vitamin C and collagen are linked, Poon suggests taking the two supplements in tandem. 10. Magnesium According to Spence, many people aren't getting enough magnesium daily, which is needed for muscle and nerve function. 11. L-Arginine "L-arginine supplements support the body's natural production of nitric oxide, which will support your blood vessels and circulation. It also has been found to lower blood pressure," Poon says. 12. Mushroom and Mushroom Extract "These fungi contain compounds called polyamines, the most famous of which is spermidine," Gundry explains. "Diets high in polyamines, especially spermidine, have recently been shown in a human study to increase both health span and life span. 13. Curcumin Feller adds that supplements with anti-inflammatory and phenolic compounds such as vitamin C, curcumin, and resveratrol may be supportive of cellular health.

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How to Capture your Youth with Collagen

By Tawa Labs

Aging is associated with unwanted images of chronic physical and mental diseases and Alzheimer’s is one. Western culture is accused of its obsession with ageism: the unfair discrimination against and stereotyping of older people. We can and will be judged. A fact of Western life. Positive emotional triggers are youth, vitality, attractiveness, smooth skin, and athletic appearance. Negative emotional triggers are wrinkles, slow movement, and overall lack of fitness. The media you will notice, continues to promote positive images.

Code Up on Collagen Does your DNA profile give you important insights? If you could prevent early aging and the disorders that often accompany it, would you be interested? Most people say yes. Personalised, prevention medicine, aka functional, integrated medicine. Functional medicine aims at preventing disease with informed decisions. It is the hottest subject around the globe today and it is finally being offered as a university subject. A DNA profile test may help you. One drug or treatment does not fit all says Dr Jeffrey Bland. You are born an original so do not die a copy. You have a unique genetic structure. With a personalized DNA profile, a registered practitioner can help you design your own perfect diet and lifestyle.

Is this you? Sandy is a financial advisor. Her pay packet deal with her company is a basic salary with high commission. It worked for her in the past and most of her two-hour meetings with clients were conducted face to face, over leisurely meals in destination restaurants. Regular gym visits toned her body. She could power dress to impress, sport her all year healthy tan and send messages of accomplishment and credibility to potential investors. Documents could be spread on the table for an allround sensate experience – a particularly important strategy in sales. Then Covid-19 came along. Tech savvy Sandy now thinks it is business as usual with some minor adjustments. Why? ‘I can master the very shortened functional meetings’ she says. ‘It is digital stuff. Suddenly it is not only about content because you are the message too. Sandy does not have the benefit of a TV makeup artist. Fine lines and fatigue on her face are highlighted. Lockdowns exact a price. Her diet and exercise regime have changed as has her previously alluring body image. Her posture lacks oomph, and her hair lack lustre. Sandy is not alone. How you look has become a dramatized event. Did you know that sociologist, Irving Goffman predicted this cultural ideal 60 years ago and you guessed right – it is not going away.

Let a little Collagen in your Life. Creating a positive identity and image is more than vanity – it is a reality. Use collagen with confidence. Supplements are part of lifestyle medicine combined with the new science of healthy aging. ‘Collagen’ says Dr. Shereene Idriss a board-certified dermatologist, speaking to Forbes, supports the use of supplements. ‘ Collagen…is the holy grail of

healthy skin which is why it’s crucial to take care of collagen in your skin—no matter what age you are. Dr Shari Marchbein also backs the use of supplements in her regular column for the New York Times but with one strong proviso. Be prepared for long term use. Select supplements such as collagen are a golden thread throughout your genetic and physical framework, lifestyle choices, brain, and gut health. This golden thread promises to add to quality of life, both mental and physical.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane. ‘Today is the oldest you have ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again. ’Those are the words of Eleanor Roosevelt during her tenure as First Lady to USA President Franklin D Roosevelt. Today she would be our best advertisement for collagen. She radiates. ‘Act today’ was her ensuring message which places a spotlight on the combo of youth and healthy aging. She was known for her inspirational wisdom and as a positive instrument for change. Today’s 7 step message for men and women is about looking and feeling younger. Your daily dose of collagen may be the secret ingredient to promote all round wellbeing and a healthier bank balance. Square up with collagen and reality. If you are like most people, squaring up to the aging process is avoided – maybe, because it seems a long way off. Wrong approach. Facing up to the ‘now’ prevents a clean-up job later. A clean up means revitalisation of your body and not cleaning out your bank account to pay a host of clinical experts to do repair jobs: plastic surgeons, psychologists, cardiologists, neurologists, and dermatologists to name a few. Regular supplementation of pure collagen is essential for change.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Live Up with Collagen

The way you synthesise collagen is your own. Your nutrition needs may be totally different from a sibling or a friend. With the help of a trained professional,

you can discover a personal code for longevity and perfect health. Reputable laboratories are now affordable and available. Correctly analysed, they may help you learn about your personal dietary or supplementary needs. Genetic tests belong to clinical medicine and they in turn provide insights into understanding our collagen needs. Once again – only consult a registered DNA profiler who can pinpoint what you need to know to maintain health and a youthful appearance, how to prevent disease and how to slow down the aging process. Know your own body structure and its responses. Here is good news. You are only 10% of your genes. Helplessly blaming your DNA for your aches and pains is bad science and a cop-out even if you have genetic evidence for weight, poor metabolism, heart disease, and arthritis. The secret is to stop ‘bad’ genes expressing themselves. ‘Genetics loads the gun, and the environment pulls the trigger’ has become a meme because it is true. 90% of the disorders that can impact on your unmanaged life are caused by the environment. Because you can control your environment you can switch your genes on or off. You have choices. Collagen steps up to the plate for you as a valuable aid.

Clean up your act with Collagen Never use age as an excuse.

Look good with collagen. Stop right there if you think looking good is about beauty, because that ideal varies from culture to culture. It is however about how we project a healthy look. Radiated health causes an unconscious response, making us a safe bet for those who want to engage with us for their own survival. But you cannot stop there. Western ideals about appearance and image may not be desirable but for a century it has held fast because there is an evolutionary bias to healthy looks. Enter the enticing field of neuroscience. The cosmetic industry is worth trillions of dollars because of aesthetic appeal. Listen to the market. A quick look at health and sport magazines will show you that the male self-care product industry is the fastest growing market with more men conscious of their body image, health, and body sculpting than ever before. Here’s why. Anything associated with aging gets an unfair rap because it has strong cultural roots, and it is resistant to change. Life is different in the East. The aging process, and the wisdom of the aged are both respected. Digging deeper, did you know that less than 3% of China’s population is obese and maybe that is a secret ingredient of their positive view of each other. Slimmer people are viewed differently. In the West, the subject of aging is avoided in good company. Slimness is also seen as a sign of emotional intelligence: self-discipline. Daniel Goleman has much to say about this. Deep seated fears of aging triggered by physical signs lie within your psyche, like it or not. Wellness expert, Dr Frank Lipman’s favourite subject is obesity and aging.

TAWA

That is the mantra of 105-year-old Ida Keeling, American track and field athlete who was still doing push ups at the age of 100, her message of perpetual health has earned her global media coverage. Good visibility brings in the business – you should know that. Richard Branson, Virgin Group founder is his best and only PR agent. 85-year-old Gary Player does 1200 push ups a day. He freely shares his lifestyle choices with all who want to listen and learn. Gary publicly stresses the value of nutrition. He couples his dietary requirements and supplements to resistance training. If you want resilience, visible body tone, a youthful appearance and vitality clean up your act. In a perfect world you would not have to use supplements. Centuries ago, soil quality was more nutrient dense. It was not contaminated by pesticides or affected by the ravages of climate change. Genetics loads the gun, and the environment pulls the trigger. You need access to rich sources of Vitamin C for collagen health. Vitamin C is consumed in the collagen manufacturing process and that is why large quantities of Vitamin C are required in the diet daily. More information on Collagen and it health benefits it avaialble from Tawa Labs and information on becoming a stockist. Visit: www.tawalabs.co.za

spa therapies

How to Capture your Youth with Collagen

By Tawa Labs

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Live Up with Collagen

The way you synthesise collagen is your own. Your nutrition needs may be totally different from a sibling or a friend. With the help of a trained professional,

Clean up your act with Collagen Never use age as an excuse.

TAWA

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The Best Anti-Ageing Products to Use in By Dr Alek Nikolic - SkinMiles Your 20s, 30s, 40s & 50s As you age, lifestyle factors like exposure to the sun, smoking, and your favourite drinks (we’re sorry) can take their toll on your skin. Not to mention your body produces less and less collagen. Daunting, yes, but not hopeless. Incorporate these simple preventative and corrective steps into your skincare regimen (and call off the search for that fountain of youth). In your 20s… Wear Sunscreen You might be spending all the money in the world on anti-ageing treatments, but unless you’re using an SPF, it won’t make any difference. The sun’s rays can wreak havoc on your skin. We all know this. The message? Look after your skin and really step up your defense against ultraviolet rays when you’re in your 20s. You should be wearing a mineral sunscreen daily (if you aren’t already). Look at the ingredients list for titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Not only do these naturally occurring minerals physically block the sunrays radiation, but they also tend to be gentle on the skin. Make sure to apply it liberally every morning (after moisturising, but before foundation). Start with a Vitamin C Serum Your 20s are full of habits that can disrupt the skin like pulling all-nighters and partying. As fun as this time is, vitamin C helps you counteract damage. It’s known for being one of the strongest antioxidants. A vitamin C serum will lighten lines, firm skin, and brighten your complexion, as well as protect your skin against environmental skin damage through free radicals. Apply a few drops to your face in the morning to see a transformation. In your 30s…

What’s the hype? A derivative of vitamin A, it smoothes skin texture, promotes skin renewal, brightens skin tone, reduces acne, and prevents ageing. What’s the catch? Retinol can lead to flaking, redness, and burning if used too frequently or if you’re using a percentage that’s too strong for you. While there is an adjustment period, it’s not recommended for people with overly sensitive skin. A good recommendation for sensitive skin is to use a retinol esther such as granactive retinol which minimises the potential for a skin reaction. Here’s how to use it safely (and not have your skin freak out): • Use only at night; • Start with something over the counter products a few times a week; • Don’t use with other exfoliants; • Graduate to more potent prescription retinol every night; and • Don’t forget SPF the morning after.

Try Peptides Simply put, peptides are what proteins are made of. In the world of skin care, when people refer to proteins they almost always mean collagen (or the protein that gives your skin its structure). By applying peptides to your skin, you’re sending an SOS signal to your cells to produce more collagen. Peptides in cosmetic skin products help calm and firm your skin. This trending ingredient is safe to apply at morning and night. Our dermatologists recommend opting for a peptide-packed serum or moisturiser (which will penetrate your skin deeper than a face wash). Upgrade Your Serum Serums mean serious business. With active ingredients, serums are pricey but their potency makes it oh so worth it. Ageing? Wrinkles? Dark spots? Concentrated serums target skin problems more effectively than other products. Just promise us this: If you invest in one thing, make it a serum.

In your 40s… Apply At-home Chemical Peels Nothing leaves your complexion looking and feeling as glowing and polished as a chemical peel does. Chemical peels stimulate your skin and break down the so-called glue that holds your dead skin cells together. The result is skin that’s smoother and firmer. Sure, you can get a chemical peel at a dermatologist’s office, but staying at home an option now. When it comes to choosing an at-home peel, look for options with a 10% glycolic acid formula. Here’s how to safely do a chemical peel at home: • Start just once a week; • Apply after washing your skin; • Follow directions; • Use a timer; and • Follow with a moisturiser.

Start Using Retinol Your early 30s is the best time to start using retinol.

In your 50s…

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SkinMiles Tip Consulting a dermatologist, or an aesthetic medical practitioner with a special interest in skincare, or a skincare therapist, will help you to learn what skincare products will be the most beneficial for every age and how to use them safely. SkinMiles: Your Personal Skincare Destination SkinMiles opened its doors in November 2015 after Dr Alek Nikolic realised that doctor-only recommended products with active ingredients were difficult to access. Dr Alek also realised that many people are not sure which products or ingredients to use for their skin types and skin concerns. “SkinMiles was created to allow for more convenient access to doctor recommended active ingredients, and to provide honest, reliable and effective advice for a personalised skin regime, to ever yone.” Visit: https://skinmiles.com

AZELAIC

ACID PEEL BY SIX AESTHETIX

Finally a peel that is safe to use on darker skin tones as well as acne and problem skin

AESTHETIX

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Power of Sleep in 2020 and Beyond

By Shelly Ibach, President and CEO of Sleep Number; Sleep Editor-at-Large, Thrive Global

Now is the time to make quality sleep your priority. This exciting new decade we’ve entered is full of possibilities, and sleep is at the root of all of them; it’s the key to thriving and realizing our goals. Science has shown unequivocally that it’s vital to our wellbeing. Getting the right kind of zzz’s can help prevent illness, ease pain, increase productivity, and make us kinder — and happier. In short, quality sleep is life changing. Now, with astounding breakthroughs in technology, everyone can achieve it. At Sleep Number, we hold ourselves accountable for delivering meaningful benefits to consumers that move society forward. We are forging the future of sleep by utilizing data to inform innovation, research, and the science of sleep. We are dedicated to our mission of improving lives by individualizing sleep experiences. We are making quality sleep effortless and achievable to improve everyone’s health and wellness. Digital health must be simple, meaningful, and accurate. Innovators like us need to do our part in defining the future and taking on big health challenges like sleep deprivation. According to the C.D.C. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), one in three adults don’t get adequate sleep. And the problem goes deeper. Sleep disorders are so pervasive in the United States that they constitute a public health epidemic. A study conducted by the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania found that one in four Americans develop insomnia each year. In particular, people say that they aren’t comfortable at night, so their shut-eye is disrupted. And many people still don’t understand that quality sleep involves much more than the number of hours spent in bed. It’s important to get not only the right amount, but the right quality of sleep. The good news: Sleep is finally at the forefront of the well-being conversation. Now more than ever, people want to understand how they can achieve higher quality sleep, and they value the important role sleep plays in their health and productivity. Technology is giving people access to digital tools that provide valuable information about their well-

being. In fact, new CES research shows that 59% of millennials are interested in sleep technology. While it is great to see this adoption of technology, all the data can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if it isn’t accurate. There’s no shortage of data available related to wellness, however, often much of it doesn’t result in meaningful improvements. In other words, data for the sake of data doesn’t do anything to improve health: It isn’t always productive. So, what is the solution? One crucial and formerly overlooked key to quality sleep is simple, yet far from simplistic. It’s your bed. What you sleep on matters. At Sleep Number, we have been pioneers in sleep monitoring sensor technology and on the cutting edge of the digital health era. The revolutionary 360 smart bed effortlessly adjusts throughout the night; it senses each sleepers movement and automatically adjusts to keep both sleepers comfortable for the highest quality of sleep. Additionally, SleepIQ technology, the operating system of the 360 smart bed, provides personalized insights to improve sleep over time, as well as a nightly measure of quality sleep — your SleepIQ score as well as your average heart and breathing rates. There is nothing for the sleeper to wear or do — you simply go to bed. It all started back in 2012 when we met the founders of a Silicon Valley startup, the world leaders in sleep monitoring and biometric hands-free technology that was being used in neonatal units. We recognized the potential of connected technology and how this technology would work with the adjustable firmness of our beds. My instincts told me that investing in this proprietary technology would add tremendous value to people’s well-being — it would be the smart bed. We acquired the start-up, transformed our company, and today, we are a purpose-driven company with 360 smart beds that deliver lifechanging sleep. Recent research we conducted has shown that people who routinely use the features of their 360 smart beds, including foot-warming and their SleepIQ insights, improve their quality sleep by nearly 100

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more hours each year. Studies have shown that an additional 15 minutes of quality sleep makes a considerable difference to your overall he)lth. We also announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Mayo Clinic to advance sleep science. Sleep deprivation has been linked to many diseases and health conditions including heart disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, and depression. We will be combining Mayo Clinic’s clinical expertise and research with our own extensive consumer sleep knowledge and technology. As a crusader for sleep, I believe this is crucial because we need evidencebased solutions to advance the science and the clinical practice of sleep medicine. We’re establishing The Sleep Number Research Fund in Sleep Science with an emph)sis on Cardiovascular Medicine, and the Sleep Number Research & Development Fund to Further Sleep Science. Our goal is that the collaboration will amplify our ability to impact society’s overall sleep and wellness. These are indeed exciting times. I’ve been thinking about how, five years ago, my friend Arianna Huffington — the founder and CEO of Thrive and, of course, a pioneer in so many ways — issued a wakeup call with her seminal book, The Sleep Revolution. It helped set in motion a sea change, making sleep a key element of the global conversation about wellbeing. Now the Digital Sleep Revolution is upon us, and in the future we expect SleepIQ technology to play a significant, preventative role by detecting potential health conditions, like breathing difficulties, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome. I foresee a future where your bed will become your health hub. It starts with great sleep, which leads to a he)lthy mind, body, and soul. I am counting on you all to make sleep a top priority. Whatever you sleep on and whatever your own bedtime routine is, it should be individualized for you — on your own terms. Sleep will support you in every way, and as a firm believer of quality sleep, I want to help you achieve it — so you can lead a healthier, happier life. Sleep well, dream big!

spa therapies Gastric bypas patients Peri-operatively Macular degeneration Chelation therapies Anti-ageing PMS relief Hair treatments

IV Nutrients consists of: Vitamins Anti-oxidants Minerals Anti-microbials Membrane stabilisers Chelating agents Trace minerals Phosphatidylcholine Specialised anti-cancer treatments The most common vitamins include vitamin A, B-Complex, folic acid, vitamin C and vitamin E. Antioxidants for IV use include alph/ lipoic acid, glutathione, superoxide dismutae etc.

IV Nutrient Therapy – Drip with Caution Hooking up to an intravenous nutrient drip for various health and wellness treatments has become a huge trending procedure in the anti-ageing industry. Yet is must be noted that while there is scientific literature to support the benefits of these treatments, it does come with its own set of risks, contraindications and interactions. Dr Cobus van Niekerk, Past President of AAMSSA (Aesthetic and Anti-aging Medicine Society of South Africa) advises on how to administer IV nutrient therapy responsibly and safely. While intravenous nutrient therapy is by no means a new anti-ageing treatment, its popularity shows no signs of abating. Quite the opposite actually: over the years, IV drips has become a firm favourite amongst a variety of health conscious individuals – such as those who are looking to treat anything from certain cancers, ischaemic heart disease and high cholesterol – to boosting their energy levels or improving their appearance. In a nutshell, IV therapy offers a range of treatment solutions in the health, aesthetics and anti-ageing market. The question is though: do they work?

IV Therapy – Worth the hype? Or is it all in ‘vein?’ The fact is, those who are undergoing IV ther/apy – or considering getting such a treatment/s, should not be discouraged to do so as there is scientific literature to support these treatments. That said however, it’s imperative that IV treatments are done in a responsible way by well-trained practitioners.

Risky Business It is worrying that people trust non-medically trained IV Bars (business entities), where the patient chooses the latest trend on a menu, with no doctor supervision, no examination and no preliminary blood tests to asses a patient’s general health before undergoing a treatment like this. This is despite the procedure carrying several contraindications, interactions and consequences. In fact, there have been at least two cases of documented deaths related to IV

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When it comes to IV chelating agents, these should only be used by trained doctors with experience.

Trending Treatments: Be Informed

The AAMSSA Report: By Rochelle Friedman

treatments in South Africa. It is therefore so important to do your own research, research the doctor or clinic where you will receive the treatment, and use this article for things to watch out for before embarking on this journey.

Ethically and Safely Every IV should be done ethically correct, by a medical doctor trained in IV therapies with a full history, examination (including observations) and documentation of any allergies. The doctor should sign off special investigations (pretesting), and informed consent needs be obtained from patients. Moreover, any complications, side effects and contra-indications should be discussed and considered with patients. A follow up must then be scheduled. On the day of the IV treament, all patients are required to have their observations checked, / urine test performed, and patients asked to document their last meals. In addition, all IV treatment patients must be monitored at all times for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, confusion, cramps, pain at the drips site, sweating etc. If there is no doctor on site to deal with emergencies, don’t have the treatment done. In fact, not only should / doctor be present, but / resuscitation trolley should be available in the treatment room. Medical practitioners and nurses must ideally have a Basic Life Support Certification, with at least one practitioner being Advanced Life support Certified. Notably, certain treatments should be administered over at least three hours, as doing it faster may cause severe side-effects, and even lead to the death.

The potential use of IV therapies includes, but is not limited, to: Malabsorption syndromes Chemotherapy/cancer therapies Chronic fatigue syndrome Detoxification

The most popular treatments listed below only scratches the surface with regards to IV nutrient therapies, and it’s purely listed here so that patients nd potential patients may be informed about what they may receive in their treatment. The B-Complex Vitamins • In combination it helps to provide optimal health. • Are important in glucose metabolism and stabilization of brain chemistry • Relieves leg cramps, is important for thyroid function, treating insomnia and improves irritability • Vitamin B supplementation should be used in patients with hormone replacement therapy and hormonal contraceptives as it may deplete Vitamin B Vitamin C • Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant and benefits the immune system (increases white blood cells and interferon) • It decreases the rate of certain cancers, improves gum disease • It reduces bruising, helps regenerate vitamin E, glutathione and uric acid, and is involved in serotonin production (treatment of depression and anxiety) • Vitamin C increases HDL (good cholesterol), lowers triglycerides and prevents free radical damage of LDL (bad cholesterol) • Vitamin C prevents the incidence of lung disease, increases fertility, lowers the incidence of cataracts and aids in wound healing • The above is the reason that ‘high dose vitamin C’ is such a buzz-word in integrative and functional medicine Glutathione • Please note that glutathione, though improving complexion, may lead to other complications like a higher incidence of skin c/ancer – and is not in itself promoted as a skin lightening treatment • It does, however, have an important role in immune metabolism and transport of amino acids across cell membranes, improves macrophage function and is important in red blood cell integrity • It is also a powerful intracellular antioxidant and is useful in neurological diseases, radiation exposure, overdoses, brain injuries, arsenic poisoning, parkinson’s disease, chronic kidney failure and emotional disorders Meyer’s Cocktail • Developed by Dr John Myers, MD, this cocktail has been used by thousands of physicians • Slow IV push made up of vitamin B-complex, B5, B6, B12, vitamin C, magnesium and calcium (contra-indicated in patients on digoxin) • This is an all-round good IV drip

• Increased energy levels an adrenal gland support. • Stress reliever (magnesium, B-vitamins and vitamin C) • Low magnesium may cause dysrhythmias, palpitations, tremors, asthma, hypertension, IBS or psychological symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

Contra-indications to IV Therapy. Absolute:Dialysis Relative: Chronic renal failure, Congestive heart failure, Allergies / sensitivities to ingredients, G6PD deficiency – Absolute contra-indication for vitamin C deficiency, Poorly controlled hypertension, Seizure disorders (epilepsy) Cardiac arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythms), Nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) Incompatibilities: Folate + other vitamins, minerals may cause precipitation, Alpha lipoic and phosphatidylcholine should be given alone Do not push thiamine rapidly as it may cause an aphylaxis, EDTA should only be given with Ca and Mg, (No other minerals), Vitamin C and B12 may cause oxalate kidney stones. Fat soluble vitamins and nutrients should be given through central IV lines or PIC lines only. Glutathione may cause allergic reactions and should be started at half doses. New IV bags by Baxter are free of xenoestrogens

Take Home Message Please be cognisant that IV treatments are not as clear-cut and simple as some IV Bars and other professionals may make it out to be. Be careful of who you trust and do your research on the treatments, as well as the treating medical physician who will be administering your IV. It is, after all, your body, and someone with enough knowledge may just be empowered enough to make the right decision for themselves at the right time…

spa therapies Gastric bypas patients Peri-operatively Macular degeneration Chelation therapies Anti-ageing PMS relief Hair treatments

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

When it comes to IV chelating agents, these should only be used by trained doctors with experience.

Trending Treatments: Be Informed

The AAMSSA Report: By Rochelle Friedman

The potential use of IV therapies includes, but is not limited, to: Malabsorption syndromes Chemotherapy/cancer therapies Chronic fatigue syndrome Detoxification

spa lifestyle Learn New Things “Mental exercise will help you delay the onset of cognitive decline with ageing,” says Snow. Although some think crossword puzzles or Sudoku are the key, Snow shares it’s more important to learn a new hobby, a new language, or a new musical instrument. “Learning new things will physically change the architecture of the brain, known as plasticity, and will help your memory in the long run,” he says. “It was taught many years ago to medical students that adult neurons, such as nerve cells in the brain, don’t divide, and you are stuck with the number of neurons that you were born with. This turned out to be mostly false, as some neurons and their connections, called synapses, were found to divide and develop and could be formed by learning new things.”

Diet The Mediterranean diet, which features the daily consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds, and olive oil, has long been credited as one of the healthiest diets in the world. According to Snow, it appears to benefit the brain the most. Fruits, especially blueberries, strawberries, elderberries, and other fruits high in polyphenols and proanthocyanidins seem to be key; vegetables; nuts, such as cashews, almonds, and peanuts; olive oil; fish, including salmon; dark chocolate, which also has polyphenols and proanthocyanidins; a

glass of red wine with polyphenols; and cutting down on red meat is important for brain health,” he says.

New Developments in Brain Health Research Having researched brain health, memory, cognition, brain plaques and tangles, and Alzheimer’s Disease for approximately 30 years, Snow is heartened by the fact that there have been amazing advances in the past five to 10 years. “I remember when I first started in the field, there weren’t even any good models to recapitulate what is going on in the ageing and AD brain,” says Snow. “Now there are excellent advances in the field including PET imaging where you can actually visualize the plaque and/or tangle load in the brain of a living patient to determine whether they’re moving towards AD.” According to Snow, one of the breakthroughs is the knowledge that not all people with plaque and tangles will develop clinical symptoms of memory loss. What differentiates them from others who do ex p e r i e n c e s y m p t o m s i s t h e l a c k o f neuroinflammation, which is inflammation in the brain. “Neuroinflammation in the brain is now the third and important driving force that accelerates memory loss, besides the brain accumulation of plaques, which look like giant Swedish meatballs in the brain and tangles, which look like dried up

spaghetti inside of neurons. The trilogy of memory loss is now plaques, tangles, and inflammation in the brain. After watching his mother’s cognitive decline due to AD, Snow was motivated to develop a nootropic that specifically targets brain plaques and tangles in the normal ageing brain. “This led to my discovery in the last 10 year pertaining to a plant extract from the Amazon rainforest, called cat’s claw, that has the ability to markedly reduce brain plaques, tangles, and inflammation,” says Snow. “We are doing much more research in this area in the next few years, including human clinical trials, but we’ve already published two major articles in 2019 and 2021 in the medical journal, Scientific Reports, that demonstrates our exciting and novel findings.” About Heather Mikesell. Heather, co-founder of Well Defined and the former editor-in-chief of American Spa, is an award-winning journalist and content strategist, skilled in writing, copyediting, and media relations. She is also a freelance writer and has contributed to Elite Traveler, Islands, Kiwi, Luxury Travel Advisor, Organic Spa, Porthole Cruise, Travel Agent, abcnews.com, jetsetter.com, outside.com, and wellandgood.com, in addition to various custom publications. Well Defined: Adopt healthier habits for a life of wellbeing! Sign Up For the Newsletter, visit the website or social media platforms. https://welldefined.com/

By Heather Mikesell - Well Defined

6 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Brain Health Learn how to minimize plaque, tangles, and inflammation in the brain.

The fear of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a real concern for many. In fact, according to a study, 12.8 percent of those polled were very worried, and 41.9 percent were somewhat worried. Fortunately, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make immediately that can help you improve your brain health. World-renowned neuropathologist Alan Snow, Ph.D., President and CEO of Cognitive Clarity, a company involved in research and development of a line of memory supplements that target brain plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that accumulate during normal ageing, recommends implementing the SHIELD program, which was initially discovered by Rudy Tanzi, Ph.D., a professor of neurology at Harvard University and co-founder and chief scientific advisor at Cognitive Clarity.

Sleep

SHIELD stands for: Sleep, Handle Stress, Interact with Others, Exercise, Learn New Things, and Diet.

Interact with Others

“Brain amyloid plaques develop in the brain when you are awake,” says Snow. “During sleep, new studies have demonstrated that excessive plaque buildup can be removed from the brain. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep, if you can, each night to ensure your brain can carry out this cleanup process.”

Handle Stress Although most of us understand stress isn’t good for our overall wellbeing, we don’t always understand the extent to which it is harmful. It can promote inflammation and impact memory and other brain functions. Snow recommends meditating, relaxing, and not working so hard to help reduce stress levels, which is key to promote a healthy brain.

Having a sense of community is vital to maintaining wellbeing. “Studies suggest that loneliness and isolation are key risk factors for development of

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AD,” says Snow, whose mother developed AD at age 87. He believes losing her husband after 50 years of marriage contributed to her decline. “I have learned the hard way that it is important for families to have a firm bond and loving interactions,” says Snow. “It is also good to have plenty of friends when you are getting older. Kids should be calling their parents and keeping in contact with them as they grow older. Social interaction helps reduce stress levels, as well.”

Exercise A daily workout regime isn’t just good for the body, it’s also good for the brain. A high-intensity activity increases heart rate, which increases blood flow to the brain, and makes you breathe harder, which in turn supplies more oxygen to the brain. Research shows that supplying more oxygen to the brain can increase neurogenesis, the process by which new neurons are formed. “Regular exercise three to four times per week for 30 to 45 minutes will help your body and brain in so many beneficial ways,” says Snow.

Aromasoothz

glass of red wine with polyphenols; and cutting down on red meat is important for brain health,” he says.

By Heather Mikesell - Well Defined

6 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Your Brain Health Learn how to minimize plaque, tangles, and inflammation in the brain.

Sleep

SHIELD stands for: Sleep, Handle Stress, Interact with Others, Exercise, Learn New Things, and Diet.

Interact with Others

Having a sense of community is vital to maintaining wellbeing. “Studies suggest that loneliness and isolation are key risk factors for development of

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Aromasoothz

spa therapies mindfulness is easier said than done, more men are discovering the benefits of focusing the mind, breathing and being present in the moment. Mindfulness is proven to reduce stress, blood pressure and anxiety, as well as boost mood and enhance productivity. An easy way to discover this concept at home is to download Headspace, an app which will guide you through the process. Its daily programme is a simple and effective tool for slowing down and taking time out from our hectic lives. Spas are now adding mindfulness to their menus, too: Neom has included visualisation and mindful practice into its new spa rituals, while Voya recently launched Mindful Dreams, a new spa therapy to promote sleep. ESPA Life at Corinthia in London has developed a whole range of treatments that incorporate mindful-related exercise outside in the open air, in a bid to aid sleep, boost brain power and enhance fitness per formance.

Men Go Off Menu By Mark Smith - The Spa Man

Wellness in Motion As more wellness-based therapies focus on the specific needs of men, the fitness and spa industries have come together to address both mental and physical health. LUX* Resorts has recently introduced the Wellness Concierge, an expert fitness trainer who conducts a tailored consultation to determine gait and flexibility before personalising exercise and treatment therapies based on the results. In the UK, Stoke Park is one of the best-equipped fitness spas around, with a high-tech fitness centre and swimming pool combined with treatment rooms – you may even find yourself working out next to an Olympian like Mathew Pincett or Denise Lewis. Further south, the Herb House Spa at the Lime Wood Hotel runs a range of fitness programmes combining speed and agility training, both in the spa and out in the fresh air.

The Second Brain If the old adage is true, and the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, then gut health is vital. Programmes are now being introduced to focus less on the pampering journey and more on getting results. The gut is often referred to as the second brain, with stress manifesting itself as pain and knots. Aside from stress relief therapies like massage and mindfulness, healthy eating and fasting are also highly recommended, the latter requiring commitment and dedication as it can leave you feeling light headed, irritable and lethargic. Push through it and the benefits can be life-changing.

Beyond Massage: Men are visiting spas in greater numbers than ever before. But as creatures of habit, they tend to choose therapeutic massages over something more exciting. Spa aficionado, Mark Smith says it’s time to upgrade the spa experience and embrace inner wellness. The number of men visiting spas is increasing worldwide: according to Conde Nast Traveler magazine, 35% of spa goers are male, while SpaFinder Wellness 365 believes it’s more like 47%. Most men realise the benefits of a maassage, but it’s time we considered the wider physical and emotional benefits of other treatments, too. What about a facial, or a fitness regime reboot? Or maybe a spa break that focuses on gut health? There's no reason why being a man should exclude you from programmes where you learn to breathe properly or improve your outlook on life. So what is on offer for male spa goers?

Time for a Change Massage remains the most popular spa treatment for men, particularly when it comes to sports and deep tissue massages. While these are great treatments, there is so much more available. Spas offer a wealth of therapies that can help relieve many of the issues relating to our hectic modern lives; before you head to the doctor or reach for over-the-counter pain relief, why not see if there’s an answer on the spa menu? If a massage is definitely what you’re after, why not try something a little different, like a soothing, calming Lomi Lomi treatment? Inspired by the tropical islands of Hawaii, this massage uses long, flowing strokes to relax the muscles, relieving tension in an instant. For something more adventurous, take to the water with a Watsu treatment, which combines massage with bodywork

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– both in and under the water. It?s not as odd as it sounds, and the feeling of weightlessness allows your therapist to conduct a wider range of movements and stretches than on a treatment bed. Try this at the Akasha Holistic Wellbeing Centre at the Cafe Royal in London or, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, head to Iceland’s Blue Lagoon to try Watsu in the warm waters. If nothing else, you’ll win brownie points with your significant other – and we won’t even take credit for it.

Face up to Ageing If you enjoy a facial, then you’re already onto a winner in the spa world, with the majority of brands tailor-making facials just for men. Elemis’ Skin IQ Facial for men calms and soothes the skin while minimising lines and wrinkles. You'll also get an in-depth analysis where you can learn what your skin will need in the long term, plus it's very relaxing. ThalgoMen’s Ocean Ritual treatment is designed for stressed male skin, combining energising marine active ingredients with soothing massage movements. The Refinery in London has gone one step further in response to a reported increase in men over the age of 50 turning to more high-tech anti-ageing and machine based-facials. It now offers Elemis BIOTEC treatments, while brands like Murad, Natura Bisse and Dr Perrricone have all created targeted facial products to renew and refresh tired skin at home.

All in the Mind As stress and anxiety take centre stage in our lives, physical and emotional wellbeing has never been so important. While embracing the concept of

Across Europe, the Modern Mayr Method combines fasting, healthy eating and chewing to rest the gut and develop a new relationship with food. Offering many more benefits than weight loss, the Mayr Method is designed to promote long-term gut health rather than simply alleviate current issues. Check out Park Hotel Igls or Viva Mayr, both in Austria and both offering this world-renowned programme. Closer to home, Grayshott Health Spa has launched a seven-day health regime to restore gut health, combining exercise and healthy eating with massage therapies.

Barber Shop Quartet The introduction of the barber’s chair is one of the most interesting developments in the male spa arena in recent years, made popular by the grooming needs of bearded Hipsters. While this might seem like a backwards step in encouraging a man to embrace his more feminine side, it certainly helps get them through the "For something more adventurous, take to the water with a Watsu treatment." "Let's face it: there's nothing like a cut-throat shave to make you feel manly, particularly after a day in spent in a fluffy white robe and slippers. Barbering services are currently de rigeur in most high-end spas across the UK, but have been popular in Europe for years. One of the first spas to offer this was in Frankfurt at Frankfurter Hof; soon afterwards, Resense partnered with London’s Truefitt and Hill to launch barbering services in its spas across Europe. The Bulgari Hotel in Knightsbridge now offers a full barbershop menu, seeing it as a natural progression from the boom in high street male grooming. Mark Smith, "aka" The Spa Man is a spa and grooming writer and a media consultant in the beauty and spa industry.

Men Go Off Menu By Mark Smith - The Spa Man

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All in the Mind As stress and anxiety take centre stage in our lives, physical and emotional wellbeing has never been so important. While embracing the concept of

spa therapies

Essential Beard Oils By Dr. Damian Rodriguez, DHSc, MS - doTERRA Essential Oils - USA According to recent surveys, 1 out of 4 of males aged 18–59 uses beard care products on a daily basis, and 3 out of 4 say they currently use them or have used them in the past year. The look, feel, and health of beards is a legitimate concern for men and those who love them - and the answer is just a bottle (or two) of CPTG essential oils away.

jojoba, avocado, or even olive oil as their base, the medium-chain triglycerides comprising Fractionated Coconut Oil (FCO) are the ideal carrier for a beard oil. FCO blends well with other oils, is moisturizing, leaves hair and skin soft and smooth, and it is odourless - so you can better enjoy the pleasant aroma of the added essential oils.

The Science Behind It

When choosing an essential oil to complement FCO in your beard oil, look for oils that are cleansing, hydrating, and promote overall health of the hair and underlying skin.

Beard oils are becoming increasingly popular because they can change the look, texture, and health of your favorite facial friend in a matter of seconds. The science behind beard oil is quite simple. Within a matter of days, even the best efforts to grow a beard can result in a dry, itchy, and disheveled mess. While it may seem like it’s the hair, the root cause of these issues is actually the underlying skin and its sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are microscopic glands located at the root of every hair follicle. Their primary function is to secrete an oily and waxy substance called sebum that keeps skin and hair moisturized. While the hair follicle progressively becomes longer, the sebaceous glands do not grow nor do they have a means to increase production of sebum. The longer the beard becomes, the greater the discomfort and risk for dry and unhealthy skin and hair. Beard oil is a simple solution to the discomfor ts of a beard. Your clients are likely applying “beard oil” to their skin on a daily basis. Some beard oils may be fortified with vitamins or fragrances, but fundamentally, beard oil is composed of two ingredients: a carrier oil and an essential oil (or a blend of them). While many beard oils feature

Below are some great options. Cedarwood: Steam distilled from the wood pieces of the Juniperus virginiana, Cedarwood essential oil has a number of properties that promote the look and health of both hair and skin. Due to its concentration of cedrol, research suggests that when applied topically, Cedarwood oil may help to keep the skin looking healthy. Cedarwood is also commonly used to reduce dryness and promote overall hair and skin health. Melaleuca (Tea Tree): Melaleuca has been used for centuries by the Aborigines of Australia as a panacea for a variety of reasons, but much of the modern scientific research has focused on Melaleuca’s many benefits when applied topically to hair and skin. One of the primary chemical constituents of Melaleuca essential oil is the monoterpene alcohol terpinen-4-ol. In experimental research, terpinen-4-ol has been shown to have cleansing properties, promote healthy looking skin, and reduce the appearance of blemishes. Melaleuca

is one of the best essential oils for daily use to keep hair and skin looking clean and healthy. Patchouli: Patchouli is frequently used in cosmetics and soaps and is an ideal complement to FCO in - DIY beard oil because it is cleansing, purifying, and supports healthy looking hair and skin. Not only is Patchouli essential oil cleansing, but also experimental research suggests that it may help keep hair and skin smelling fresh?. Sandalwood: Sandalwood essential oil is a common ingredient in a variety of skin products not only for its woody scent, but also for its ability to support a healthy complexion when applied topically. In human clinical research, a skin care regimen including topical administration of Sandalwood has been shown to reduce the appearance of blemishes and support overall skin health?. Conclusion The method is simple: Combine 1 ounce of FCO and 5–10 drops of your favourite essential oils for skin and hair in a small bottle and shake. Put a few drops of the mixture into your palms each morning and massage into the beard. If you don’t have the time to make your own, doTERRA Salon Essentials Root to Tip Serum, which includes Cedarwood essential oil, can do the same thing to your beard as it does to the hair atop your head. A few washes a week with your favourite shampoo and some extra attention with your beard oil is all it takes to grow and maintain a healthy looking and feeling beard.

About Lezanne Shone I finished my studies at Isa Carstens Academy of Health & Skincare as a Certified Somatologist and Advanced Aesthetician with a Diploma in Advanced Aromatherapy by Eve Taylor from the UK. The wonder of Essential Oils always had me extremely interested in natural medicine and I never knew it will become such a huge and life changing part of my life after 22 years of a proven reputation. I was searching for a Certified Essential Oil company in South Africa for years with no results. Finally, doTERRA was introduced to me and after 6 months of intense research, and my wonderful and unexpected journey with doTERRA started at the end of April 2020 I am extremely passionate about Advanced Aesthetics in Health & Skincare, actively seeking to develop knowledge and skills to advance in this specialized field and this is exactly why doTERRA became part of my life. My biggest dream and passion is to change the lives of people around me and to have a positive influence in their lives especially with essential oils as a natural medicine.

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Essential Oils What to Look for When Buying Essential Oils. In a market where every company claims to have “pure” essential oils, how do you really know if the oils you're using are pure? How do you know if the essential oils you're buying are worthy of being used by you and your family? Pure essential oils have an incredible potential to soothe, support, and revive you and your loved ones in a completely natural way. If you want the best essential oils, find out if the company you plan to buy from takes the following precautions to ensure the quality of their oils: Sustainable and responsible sourcing Extensive and thorough testing Clear and accessible safety and usage information Transparency

What Makes doTERRA Different?

sources essential oils from all over the world. We work with committed partners to ensure the best growing conditions and produce the purest, highest quality essential oils.

When you use a bottle of doTERRA essential oil, you're using an oil that is pure.There are no contaminants, fillers, or adulterations. The essential oil industry did not have standards to ensure purity, so doTERRA created one. Every batch of doTERRA essential oils goes through a rigorous testing process-well beyond what would be considered “good enough.” After that, each oil is sent to an independent third party for further testing and validation. This exciting new opportunity of doTERRA Essential Oils in South Africa, especially in the Spa Industry as it allows strong leaders who have taken the step to run their own business, they are enterprising and understand all about commitment, and following their dreams. doTERRA Essential Oils is a great way for them to add more value to their existing service, strengthen their business and increase their income!

For more information:

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A Nutritionist’s Guide to Anti-ageing Eating Everyday By Samantha Francis - Voices Wellness

Want to eat healthier but unsure how to start? Culinary nutritionist, Caroline Chow shares her favourite tips to try.

immune system. Try these along with vegetables like bok choy, napa cabbage or Chinese broccoli, to cleanse the body and support liver functions.

As a culinary nutritionist, instructor, finance professional, and founder of health and wellness site Happy Health, Caroline understands the challenges that come with being a busy multi-hyphenate. As an advocate for better health through mindful eating, she shares her top tips for eating well on a daily basis.

Plan ahead with healthy snacks This is especially true at home and even more so when you are out of the house. Packing snacks ahead can stop you from reaching for quick fixes like fast food or takeout. Some of my favourite healthy snacks to keep hunger at bay include rice crackers with dip, roasted nuts, seaweed, or fruit.

Grocery shop for seasonal fruits and vegetables Our bodies are naturally designed to eat b2sed on the environment that we live in and local produce often means it’s fresher and cheaper. Some great fruits that are in-season between April to July in Singapore include jackfruit, longan, rambutan, and mangosteen. These are all high in anti-aging properties and vitamin C, which helps to boost the

Opt for light and flavourful dishes that don’t rely on heavy sauces or frying When dining out, some favourites of mine include satay or Hainanese chicken and rice with a side of vegetables. Dishes like these contain flavourful and beneficial ingredients like ginger and garlic to aid digestion or try bone broth — known to aid digestive health.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques no’79

Try plant-based protein options The next time you order in, try one plant-based protein such as tofu with braised mushrooms and broccoli or black bean burrito bowl with all the toppings. By doing so, you can be sure that you are adding to your daily fruit and vegetable intake and getting nutrients like fibre and vitamin A for cardiovascular health. It’s a win-win as you still get all the flavour and convenience of takeout. Batch cook by doubling the serving size of a recipe Batch cooking is a great way to save time from having to cook lunch or dinner the next day. Alternatively, freeze the food in advance for a quick pre-made meal that can easily be thawed, reheated, and enjoyed. This method is faster than takeout and much more nutritious. Try having the leftovers for lunch or dinner the following day, then freeze the leftovers for long workdays when the last thing you want to do is slaving it out in the kitchen.

spa business as important as how you create a brand image and reputation for your startup. As an entrepreneur, you are your business. Being viewed as a patient person, rather than an impulsive, aggressive, and impatient one, can directly impact whether a prospect chooses to do business with your brand.

7 Reasons Patience is an Important By John Boitnott Virtue for All Entrepreneurs There are many reasons to work on your patience as an entrepreneur that will offer a positive return on investment. Here are some helpful tips for developing this virtue. Patience is a quality that tops the list of healthy, positive virtues alongside honesty, kindness, and empathy. These virtues are generally considered to be hallmarks of a good, moral person, but they're considered virtues for another reason, too: People usually struggle to embody them on a daily basis.

The virtue of patience can be one of the most challenging to practice consistently, primarily because the stress of daily life and work gives us so many opportunities to experience frustration. We've all become accustomed to instant gratification. However, to help ourselves and our relationships, it's vital to recognize the importance of patience in life. 1. Patience helps you avoid making hasty decisions. When you want something to happen now, you're focused on what it feels like to get what

you want, and may overlook questions about whether it is the right time or place for that development or event to occur. I've seen founders who rushed a business launch just to “get out there.” Instead, take the time to conduct adequate research, study the market and the competition, and define the target audience you want to reach. Doing so will help you make better decisions about you launch. 2. Improve your reputation and brand image How you market yourself as an entrepreneur is just

I know successful early-stage seed investors who say they often invest in founders, not even so much the business model they're selling. Many VCs say they invest in people they simply like to be around. A steady sense of calm may make you one of those people. Patience and calm can help bring about an unshakable confidence in your mission, instead of a palpable air of desperation. Investors and customers may see that. Your target audience needs to feel confident in your brand before they choose to work with you, so build that credibility by focusing on patience and positivity. 3. Drive you to work harder (and smarter) If you have an entrepreneurial mindset, you already work hard and know that you must wear many hats. However, when you focus on patience, you develop comfort with the reality that building something of value takes time. Your desire to achieve success doesn't have to be clouded by impatience. Instead, you can use that desire and acceptance together as motivation to fuel your efforts. When you get tired or frustrated, you can reflect on how your previous sustained efforts got you to this point. That, in turn, can drive you to work even harder. You can take dynamic action, yet do it mindfully.

4. Deepen your resilience. Resilience is a critical trait for entrepreneurs, small business owners, teachers, students, and just about everyone else. With patience and resilience, you remain focused on your goal despite any unexpected adversity. You know your goal is still possible and worth continuing toward, so you don't get bogged down by the clouded judgment that frustration can bring. In short, patience helps you stay effective for the long haul. 5. Amplify your appreciation. Truman Capote said that “failure is the condiment that gives success its flavor.” It takes a lot of patience to get through difficulties and failures. But as an entrepreneur, you can reach success and enjoy that sensation over and over again. Your sense of gratitude is heightened when it finally comes time to launch, or when sales climb, because you know how much you did to create that success. Stay grateful. 6. Select the best opportunities. Your patience prevents you from simply jumping in with both feet. Instead, you will be able to hear that little voice telling you to take the time to evaluate your options and consider both the risks and the benefits. If anyone pushes you to make an immediate decision, your patience will send up a red flag and tell you it's not the right opportunity at the right time. 7. Create a comfortable company culture. As a startup founder, you're not just building a company. You are also creating an environment that will ultimately become your company culture. To attract and retain the best talent, your work environment must make them feel happy to come to work.

In the long run, putting in the effort to practice patience will lighten up the company culture so your team members will stick with you. That means less time looking for new employees and training them. You'll also save money and become a magnet for other top talent as you grow your business. 8. Be patient with others. Practicing patience builds on the existing benefits of entrepreneurship. If you are still considering how to become an entrepreneur, consider whether you need to work on being more patient. Taking that deep breath, focusing on how to slow down, and thinking about what you can or should do before acting can help you make better decisions. In turn, those better decisions will improve your business and help you achieve your desired results. By incorporating patience as a key ingredient of the virtues that make up your entrepreneurial spirit, you will be likelier to develop solid long-term relationships. This includes those you network with at entrepreneurship forums and industry events, the employees you hire and need to retain, investors, prospects, customers, and even media contacts. About: John Boitnott is a journalist and digital consultant who has worked at TV, newspaper, radio and Internet companies for 25 years. He writes about startups, marketing, leadership and more at Entrepreneur, the MotleyFool, Readwrite.com and his blog. He's also written for Inc, Venturebeat, Business Insider, USA Today and NBC, among others. This article appeared on Motley Fool's The Blueprint.

spa lifestyle

The Importance of Personal Renewal Renewal holds an immediate appeal. In marketing it is the magic word motivating buyers of vitamins, diets, skin creams, and exercise machines. But in reality your existence depends on every cell in your body knowing with perfect precision how to renew itself. There are hardly any cells in your body today that were there when you were born, and certain types of cells (skin, stomach lining, and red blood corpuscles) renew themselves in a matter of weeks. These well-known medical facts point to a hidden secret, for it isn't physical renewal that holds the key. Imagine a house where the bricks fly in and out of the walls, yet the building is always standing. Its blueprint remains intact even as physical objects constantly change. Your body's blueprint remains intact thanks to the invisible intelligence contained in every cell. Instead of looking to DNA for the source of this intelligence - DNA is just another piece of the physical picture - the secret lies with how your body uses its intelligence. You can renew yourself by consciously using the same principles that keep your body in a natural state of renewal.

1. Living in the present. By now everyone has heard these words, but they need to be carried out. Cells have no choice but to live in the present. It comes naturally to them, and it does to you and me, too, unless our minds pull us out of the present. The simplest way to be present is to notice when you aren't. In a moment of distraction, stress, anger, anxiety, or boredom, take a few deep breaths, center yourself, and wait quietly until you feel calm and centered. That's what it feels like to be in the present moment without effort or strain. 2. Cooperation. The value of cooperation is that you gain the support of others while in turn you support them. Research has shown that adding each new support group, system, or person adds to your lifespan. Happiness is correlated with being in communication every day with someone you personally value. So look upon cooperation as bonding. When you bond, you renew a relationship that nurtures both people in the relationship.

Here are the principles: 1. Cells live in the present. 2. Cells cooperate with each other. 3. Cells understand that the whole is greater than the parts, and they live for the whole. 4. Cells are not afraid of death. 5. Cells accept life as a process that never ends, and they do not resist the flow.

3. Wholeness. You cannot make yourself whole, because you are already whole. You are merged into the stream of life, and everything that happens in collective consciousness includes you. This is why it is important to identify with a higher consciousness, in order to realize that there is a field of infinite possibilities from which you draw life, love, imagination, creativity, and personal growth. In wholeness you are constantly renewed, because the field of infinite possibilities has something new to offer you every day, if you are open, alert, and ready to receive.

These principles come from the same source in pure awareness that governs everything in Nature. Whatever the physical benefits, meditation is a more powerful tool for consciousness, because in meditation we come closer to the source, and this strengthens the flow of intelligence without doing anything else. But every day is filled with activity, and you can cooperate with your body's creative intelligence by adopting the five principles.

4. Immortality. Fear of death is a human creation, and it comes from the ego. “I” is committed to selfpreservation, but there is the undeniable fact that the physical body will one day pass away. This makes the ego's search for immortality fear-based. When we stop identifying with the limited, separate, isolated “I,” fear of death ends. Consciousness and existence are immortal. They are the real source of immortality. In meditation the mind settles down to

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By Deepak Chopra MD experience the silence and peace of pure awareness. Simply by being here, you are merged into the field of immortality, as you have always been and always will be. Know that this is true, and let your experience of inner silence become established. As this happens, the fact of your freedom form death will dawn on its own, as naturally as knowing that you exist. 5. Flow. This is another term that almost everyone has heard. To translate it into reality can be reduced to a few simple things. Don't resist. Pause before you say no. Witness and appreciate what is going on around you. The opposite of flow is resistance and it is rooted in the need to defend yourself. Yet almost always the mind's reaction of self-defense is pointless and unnecessary. Know this, and put into practice the habit of seeing what happens next without putting up anger, fear, worn-out reactions, and resistance. It creates a real breakthrough when you look at these five principles and realize that they say the same thing: You are connected to renewal naturally and effortlessly. All you need to do is to let the process of renewal become part of your outlook on life. The bodymind is one thing, an expression of consciousness. You are the conscious agent at the center of the whole project of being here now. See this as your main role in life. In reality every moment in your life has been merged into the eternal now. Once you accept that as your vision, renewal will be yours to celebrate. Consider the humble life of trillions of cells whose only mission is to serve you. They have much to teach. About DEEPAK CHOPRA™ , founder of The Chopra Foundation, a non-profit for research on well-being and humanitarianism, and Chopra Global, a whole health company at the intersection of science and spirituality, is a world-renowned pioneer in integrative medicine. and personal transformation. He is the author of over 90 books translated into over 43 languages, including numerous bestsellers. TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as “one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century.”

spa business other cases, the guest will only be pleased in other ways. It is our job to figure that out and make it happen. Amazingly, the most effective solution to exceeding guest expectations may not even be a costly one. A favorite product is unavailable. Pick it up and have it available for the client as soon as possible. Clients visiting for a special occasion, present them with a small gift. A couple is celebrating an anniversary- thank them for choosing your spa with a special remembrance.

Succeeding in an Era When Clients Define and Drive Service Concepts, as Never Before By Richard Takach, Jr. President & CEO, Vesta Hospitality At its most fundamental, the hospitality industry has always been about anticipating and responding to the needs of its guests. Treat guests as you would like to be treated and you will be rewarded with their patronage, genuine appreciation and loyalty. Operating revenues and profitability will follow.

successful hospitality and wellness company. The headaches can come from the need for accurate budgeting and forecasting, revenue management, maximizing the value, raising equity or debt to continue to grow or simply managing the egos in the executive office or calming an angry guest.

However, in our modern era, this imperative has been complicated and challenged in several ways. For starters, even within individual brand platforms and asset classes, both leisure and business travelers are not necessarily looking to have as standardized a guest experience as in generations past. It's not "plug and play" anymore. The key is the ability to modify the experience at any given property to meet as many guest expectations as possible. Be flexible and always try to view any stay from the guest's perspective.

Still, many hoteliers / wellness directors will say that the most stressful aspect of hospitality is not any of those, but, rather, the hiring process. Yes, guest service comes down to hiring people who understand and can embody our mission statement, guiding philosophies and organizational culture; and, most importantly, have a natural sentiment for caring for others and like working with them in a personal relationship. If you are not inclined to serve others, you are probably not in the right business. The right person, when hired correctly using the tools available, can have a positive effect. On the flip side, we must be cautious about hiring the "wrong" person who could have a deleterious impact. The lesson: every single hire is important to the success of a hospitality and wellness organization.

Guests want more choices in arrival and departure times; room location and, perhaps, furnishings; food and beverage offerings; in-room entertainment and broadband capabilities; fitness centers; and so on. And as our industry matures, aided by technology, we should be able to customize the hotel experience in new and better ways, allowing the guest to further define her or his experience. This development, coupled with new technologies, the advent and prevalence of social media, and ever-present labor pressures, has important implications that impact our hiring strategies, training protocols and everyday operations. Some of these trends have been intensified during the pandemic. On the one hand, direct bookings, keyless entry, self-check-in and other contactless services have continued to grow in preference, all of which reduces demand on staff. On the other hand, hotels are receiving more pre-visit queries than ever before concerning mask policies, social distancing, housekeeping and sanitation standards, or food and beverage availability. There's a lot to handle and our hospitality industry is doing a great job in informing guests about their prospective needs.

Great Guest Service Starts With Making the Right Hire There are many challenging aspects to running a

The entire hiring journey begins with notices of job availability, made more expansive these days with the many job and career websites as well as many industry specific job sites that now exist. However, don't neglect traditional recruiting techniques like executive recruiting firms; working with schools and colleges; post-pandemic job fairs; as well as personal referrals. The most valuable of these is referrals from current employees. Next comes the interview process, including any follow-up interviews; background checks; and the use of analytical and behavioural tools to help determine a candidate's aptitude for specific positions. The latter, in combination with benchmarking of top performers, is proving extremely useful in the hiring process. The Predictive Index (PI) is one such useful tool. In measuring the four traits of Dominance, Extraversion, Patience and Formality, a job candidate is further benchmarked against top performers in an organization and what their traits are. In practice, these tools are proving quite valid in matching traits and personalities to qualities required of specific

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positions. Many organizations are finding it valuable to conduct these PI assessments all the way down to line level staff, another great example of investment in our people. Also, there is a tendency to be lackadaisical about background checks and references. Always verify references, but remember that some references in today's business world may withhold valuable information due to legal concerns. Do conduct your own investigations. The most useful reference checks come from professional relationships and keeping one's ear to the ground. Any hiring must be followed by quality training and continuing education programs, which is critical to guest service and retaining and grooming outstanding talent for the organization. This starts with brand training programs and building on with our comprehensive, organization-specific ones. The goals: give new hires the tools and confidence to perform their tasks well, which should be continually upgraded; and offer a path to career advancement for those so inclined. Here, as elsewhere, technology is allowing us to offer highly reliable, self-paced programs for team members, fully integrated with comprehensive human resources functions.

Empowering Staff is Essential to Modern Client Service Driven by advancements in technology, which has revolutionized how we interact with guests; driven by brand standards; and driven by guest expectations and the greater world of commerce, our ultimate goal is to empower team members with the authority to solve service issues at the lowest and quickest level possible. The simple fact is the higher up a chain of command the guest complaint rises, the less likely there will be a positive outcome. Astute organizations take this a step further, by endorsing what we might call a "100 percent guarantee." Today's most useful service standard: don't argue, don't negotiate, don't try to be clever, just make things right. We will give you the tools to do this and have your back as you exercise your powers of discretion. In some cases, this might be a comp treatment. In

Simple things that display appreciation and thoughtfulness can earn their weight in gold with customer loyalty. At the same time, many new receptionists don't understand that if a guest took the time to mention an issue, we must do something about it. Simply thinking the guest wasn't upset isn't reason to stop. If a guest bothered enough to bring something up, it is our duty to respond and "close the loop" in a positive way. Empowered staff has done an outstanding job during these challenging times, helping instill confidence in the public and providing customized service to clients. In addition to empowerment, financial incentives are important motivators for client service.

Managing the Technology End-Around In days past, you could easily pick that angry guest out of the crowd. These days, more and more guests check in through contactless services and, often, the "shouting' or angry stare comes through in the form of an email or text complaint. Often, out of the blue, even straight to a brand or social media before the

guest has checked out! Our task is to be alert to these newer forms of "confrontation," as well as praise, ready to respond promptly, remembering to make things right as soon as possible. These experiences will suggest new ways of getting ahead of issues, including using on-property text communication systems to stay in touch with guests throughout their stays. We must also continually monitor those online reviews and other social media comments and respond appropriately. The goal is always the same: nip any guest dissatisfaction in the bud and do everything possible to exceed expectations.

Be Willing to Experiment The world of hospitality and wellness will continue to grow in complexity with new brands and independent platforms, new consumer behaviors, an evolving work force and new technologies at all levels. Aided by technology and our people, inventive operators will research and imagine new ways of personalizing the guest experience and offer multiple forms of added value, both the expected and the pleasant surprise. One of the richest sources of ideas on how we can improve things for our guests come from the associates who are closest to them. We need to encourage their participation, listen to their suggestions, and take each one under consideration. Our industry is blessed with creative and inquisitive individuals, helping to constantly reinvent our industry concepts of guest and client service, as they gradually evolve over time. Following their lead, the best

organizations must be willing to experiment in the area of guest service, within established brand and organizational parameters. For example, we may be able to extend the concept of a personal concierge throughout a guest's stay. Or there maybe new ways, including through friendly competition, to build improved team work, sense of responsibility and problem-solving skills. Your staff member has a new idea for responding to guest surveys or partner with other businesses in your location? Many such initiatives are not costly. Let them have a go at it. Hire carefully and train well. Challenge and empower team members. Listen closely to guests. Try out new strategies that keep hospitality and wellness fresh and exciting. Our guest and client service and, as a result our success and sense of fulfillment, will be all the better for it. About Mr.Richard Takach Jr, co-founded Vesta Hospitality with a vision of creating unique hotels that offer the finest in quality and service. With 30+ years of experience in the industry, he has a reputation for attracting and retaining talented professionals who in turn create award-winning hotels with outstanding customer satisfaction. Before Mr. Takach served as Regional Manager for the Marriott Corporation, and spent seven years as Executive Vice President of Dimension Development Company. He has served on Hilton Hotels' Advisory Council and was Chairman (2007/8) of the Owner's Association for InterContinental Hotels Group.

Great Guest Service Starts With Making the Right Hire There are many challenging aspects to running a

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spa lifestyle

By Carol Stewart MSc, FInstLM

Quietly Visible Networking: How to Move from Fear to Fabulous With a lack of research on introverted leadership and the vast majority of leadership research privileging extroversion, it is always great when I come across researchers who focus on introverted leadership. I spoke to Leatrice Oram PhD, about her research on introverted leaders. We discussed her research and findings, and she shares plenty of takeaways that introverted leaders can apply to thrive as leaders and in life. It's often not what you know but who you know that gets you a look in when it comes to opportunities. And with a rumoured 70-80% of senior executive roles, and 75% of all jobs filled through the hidden job market, if you're not making networking part of your leadership progression repertoire, you could be missing out. In the lunch & learn session, I did on networking tips for introverted leaders, someone asked about steps to do it effectively. Here's how you can make networking work for you.

prefer depth of conversation over quantity. However, when you are meeting someone for the first time, small talk may be necessary to flow into a more meaningful conversation. Have a few conversation starters up your sleeve and use these to segue into something more meaningful. Ask open questions, listen to the response, pick up on something, then ask another open question. Repeat this a few times, and as they ask you questions in return, the conversation will start to flow. Introverts are well known for their listening skills, so play to your strengths. They Think They Have To Work The Room Networking is often thought of as being an opportunity to speak to as many people as possible, and many introverts think they have to work the room. The thought of this is off putting. However, you don't have to speak to as many people as possible if you don't want to. Instead, be more targeted in your approach. If you know who will be at the networking event in advance, identify those people you want to meet.

Why Introverts Don't Like Networking Get There Early Some people mistakenly think that introverts don't like networking because we are shy, socially awkward, and lack confidence. However, this is a mistaken belief because whilst this may apply to some people who are introverted, it also applies to some extroverted people too.

When groups have formed and conversations are in full flow, it can feel awkward trying to edge your way in. If breaking into groups is a challenge for you, make sure you get there early. Approach Groups Of Odd Numbers

The reasons, include: •They are overly stimulating environments • We don't generally like making small talk • They think that they have to work the room and speak to as many people as possible. They Are Overly Stimulating Environments Introverts are overly stimulated by spending too long in busy, social environments. It can be energy draining and make us want to retreat into ourselves. When we feel like this, we are less likely to want to engage in conversation, which can come across as aloof. So, if you find the environment overly stimulating, pop out for some fresh air, or do some other activity that helps you to recharge. They Don't Like Making Small Talk Introverts typically don't like making small talk and

If groups have already formed, approach groups of odd numbers and you will feel less like an outsider. With groups of even numbers, it is easier for people to pair up, making it more challenging to get your foot in. When you approach the group, don't just barge your way in and take over. Say hello, briefly introduce yourself, and ask if it is ok for you to join. Gauge the flow of the conversation and when appropriate, join. However, don't hesitate too long waiting for the appropriate moment. Making The Most Of Virtual Networking When you attend virtual meetings or events, engage in conversations with others in the chat. Connect with the people you meet on LinkedIn and arrange to have a virtual coffee meeting. Make the most of social media platforms to develop and grow your network. Engage with your connections' posts and

share articles and podcasts that are of value to them. Go to your organisation's LinkedIn company page, and connect with those you want to connect with. Likewise, if you are looking to make a career transition, go to the company pages of organisations you want to work at, look at the people who work there that you want to connect with, and send them a connection request. Reframe How You View Networking If you have a negative view of networking, change your perspective about it. I once had a client who was a solicitor and business development was part of her role. She hated networking with a passion. By helping her to reframe how she saw networking, she came to view it as an opportunity to meet people, and she could then develop and nurture those relationships. If her company's services would benefit them, she could let them know this. Changing her perspective in this way, changed how she felt. By changing how she felt, she began to enjoy networking. What is a more helpful perspective for you to have about it? Don't Make It All About Me, Me, Me Don't go networking with the sole purpose of being out for what you can get. Or in response to the question that was asked of me, make it just about getting a job. If so, you may come across as desperate or selfish and put people off. View it as an opportunity to expand your network, meet interesting people, and to develop and nurture relationships beyond the networking event. And remember, it's not just what you can get out of it, relationships work two ways. What can you do to help those you meet as well? Love it or hate it, networking is essential to business? About Carol Stewart: I am an Executive and Career Coach specialising in introverted women who are senior leaders. I've been the featured expert in Women and Home Magazine, Good Housekeeping Magazine, the Telegraph, on BBC Radio 5 Live, named a LinkedIn Top Voice UK 4 years running, and received awards for my work developing women leaders.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Magazine Issue #79 2021

Articles inside

By Hana Hong - Real Simple 10 Beauty Trends That Continue to Dominate 2021