Skin | Earth | Vitality

In this episode, Emily discusses face cupping, a treatment that she frequently uses in her professional treatments and on her own skin. She explains that face cupping is an inverted facial massage that utilizes cups to create a vacuum suction on the skin, pulling the tissue upwards. This modality helps increase blood flow, stimulate lymphatic movement, and promote collagen and elastin production. Emily also provides information on who should avoid face cupping and the benefits of the practice. She shares tips on how to do face cupping, including using facial oil and different cupping techniques. Lastly, she discusses cupping marks and suggests how to fade them faster.Purchase face cups from Emily’s website here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collections/facial-tools/products/skin-earth-vitality-stratum-aesthetics-facial-cups?variant=40797445881991Takeaways:* Face cupping is an effective modality that can improve the appearance and health of the skin.* It increases blood flow, stimulates lymphatic movement, and promotes collagen and elastin production.* Certain individuals should avoid face cupping, such as those with recent facial injections, active acne lesions, broken or irritated skin, and certain medical conditions.* Face cupping can help reduce puffiness, double chin, under-eye bags, and fine lines and wrinkles.* To do face cupping, start with freshly cleansed skin, apply facial oil for slip, and use small cups to create a vacuum and gently move them across the face.* Cupping marks can occur but can fade faster by staying hydrated, doing gentle facial massage, applying warm compress, using arnica gel or cream, and engaging in gentle exercise.* Thoroughly clean facial cupping tools between each use to avoid transferring bacteria.Chapters:00:00Introduction to Skin, Earth, Vitality03:24 What is Face Cupping?10:31Contraindications and Precautions12:26Benefits of Face Cupping15:12Where to Get Cups and How to Do Face Cupping27:50Wrap-up and ConclusionCheck out this video tutorial for face cupping here: https://www.youtube.com/@stratumaestheticsYou can find Emily’s website with all other products and links to her social pages and blogs here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

What the heck are you even supposed to do when your skin is so dry, and you’ve tried EVERYTHING? In this episode, your favorite holistic esthetician breaks it down for you, from hydrating your skin on a cell level to the effects cortisol has on your skin, making it drier, to what products will be the best option for you. Takeaways: * Dry skin is caused by a lack of oil, while dehydrated skin is caused by a lack of water.* Proper hydration involves more than just drinking water; it requires a balance of electrolytes and water to be effectively utilized at the cellular level.* Dry skin can be caused by seasonal allergies, chronic stress, a disrupted skin barrier, poor cell-to-cell communication, a lack of proper fat assimilation, and medical conditions or interventions.* The top three favorite dry and dehydrated skin ingredients are marshmallow root, beta-glucan, and seaweed.* When choosing skincare products, it's important to consider the ingredients, avoid strong synthetic emulsifiers, and listen to your skin's response.Find Emily’s curated skincare shop: https://stratumaesthetics.com/Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stratumaesthetics/Find YouTube videos for proper facial massage:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8Vmg This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

In this episode, Emily discusses essential oils and provides a balanced and informative discussion about their benefits and problems. She covers topics such as extraction methods, sustainability issues, and the effect of essential oils on the skin barrier. Emily also gives five things to look for when purchasing essential oils. Overall, she emphasizes the importance of using essential oils responsibly and at appropriate dilutions.Emily’s Favorite Essential Oils, Eden Botanicals: https://www.edenbotanicals.com/Takeaways* Essential oils are beneficial but should be used responsibly and at appropriate dilutions.* Different extraction methods of essential oils have different impacts on the environment and the quality of the oil.* The high concentration of essential oils can disrupt the skin barrier, so it's important to be aware of the potential effects.* When purchasing essential oils, look for organic options, transparent extraction methods, country of origin, botanical names, and the specific part of the plant that was extracted.* Hydrosols, which are byproducts of essential oil distillation, offer similar benefits without the potential disruption to the skin barrier. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Do you ever feel exhausted because you're in a constant state of trying to fix yourself or your skin? What if, instead, you enter into a space of becoming and embrace the concept of slow beauty? In this episode, Emily discusses the concept of slow beauty and the importance of shifting our mindset from fixing ourselves to becoming our true selves. She explores the influence of societal conditioning and beauty industry messaging on our perception of our skin. Emily shares practical steps for a slow beauty journey, including mindful skincare routines, changing our language, engaging in supportive lifestyle practices, and connecting with the natural world. She also emphasizes the benefits of digital detox, journaling, and meditation.Chapters00:00Introduction and Gratitude03:52The Energetic and Emotional Intentions of Skincare Practices08:07The Detrimental Effects of Constantly Trying to Fix Ourselves13:07Practical Steps for a Slow Beauty Journey This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Facial massage is not a replacement for Botox; thinking it sets us up for disappointment might make us miss the magic of facial massage! I’ve spoken about the importance of facial massage in the past, but I want to lay it out there to share why it’s so important to add to your at-home skincare regimen. I also want to highlight why we shouldn't think of face massage as the second runner-up to Botox. Check out my YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY3I84QTWRiIMhsnxnd8VmgChapters00:00 Introduction and Invitation to Subscribe04:58 Understanding Botox: Paralyzing Muscles to Reduce Wrinkles09:40 The Benefits of Facial Massage: Lymphatic Health and Blood Circulation15:44 Emotional Release: Facial Massage as a Love Letter to Yourself24:56 Timing and Considerations for Facial Massage After Botox This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

SummaryWhat is the impact of jaw tension on skin health? In this episode, Emily explains the causes of jaw tension, including stress, improper posture, teeth clenching, and TMJ dysfunction. Emily highlights the link between jaw tension and skin health, emphasizing the importance of circulation and lymphatic drainage for healthy skin. She also explores the impact of jaw tension on facial aging, including the appearance of jowls and dynamic wrinkles. Emily provides various approaches to relieving jaw tension, such as self-massage, stress management strategies, and herbs. TakeawaysJaw tension can negatively impact skin health, including inflammation, decreased circulation, and compromised lymphatic drainage.Proper posture, ergonomics, and exercises and stretches can help alleviate jaw tension.Self-massage techniques targeting the SCM, temporalis, and masseter muscles can relieve jaw tension.Stress management strategies, such as breathing exercises, meditation, and using nervine and adaptogen herbs, can help reduce jaw tension.Maintaining healthy lymphatic drainage is crucial for skin health and can be improved through self-massage and proper posture.Jaw tension can contribute to facial aging, including the appearance of jowls and dynamic wrinkles.Herbs like agrimony can help relax tense jaw muscles and reduce inflammation.Breathing through the nose instead of mouth breathing can help alleviate jaw tension and improve overall well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:57 Background on Jaw Tension03:22 Causes of Jaw Tension07:00 Link Between Jaw Tension and Skin Health08:23 Impact on Circulation and Lymphatic Drainage12:01 Impact on Facial Aging14:13 Relieving Jaw Tension: Self-Massage Techniques20:55 Herbal Support for Jaw Tension25:37 Posture and Ergonomics25:44 Agrimony Tea: A Natural Remedy27:34 The Role of Mouth Breathing28:30 Conclusion This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

SummaryIn this episode, Emily discusses the importance of skincare beyond products and the conventional beauty industry. She explores the meaning of SPF and the difference between chemical sunscreens and mineral sunblocks. Emily also highlights plants that provide elemental protection and shares her own thoughts and habits when it comes to the sun. She emphasizes the need for intuitive sun practices and a shift in the prevailing paradigm. The episode concludes with a preview of the upcoming episode on jaw clenching.TakeawaysSkincare goes beyond products and the conventional beauty industry.Understanding SPF and the difference between chemical sunscreens and mineral sunblocks.Plants like red raspberry seed oil, carrot seed oil, cranberry seed oil, and jojoba seed oil offer natural sun protection.Practicing intuitive sun habits and listening to your body's needs.Shifting paradigms and prioritizing feminine intuition in matters of well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:23 Skincare Beyond Products08:15 SPF as a Drug10:42 Chemical Sunscreens vs Mineral Sunblocks14:16 Plants with Elemental Protection26:01 Shifting Paradigms31:05 Supporting the Body in the Sun32:04 Upcoming Episode: Jaw Clenching This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Summary In this episode, Emily discusses the topic of eye cream and whether it is necessary. She approaches the topic from a holistic perspective, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the body and the importance of addressing underlying causes of eye concerns. She breaks down the five main concerns people have about their eyes: dark circles, puffiness, crow's feet, hooded eyes, and red, dry or rashy skin. For each concern, she discusses ingredients that can support and ingredients to look for in an eye cream, as well as the benefits of facial massage and lifestyle modifications. She also touches on the emotional component of appearance and encourages listeners to rewrite the stories they tell themselves about their appearance.You can find Emily’s face cups here: https://stratumaesthetics.com/collections/facial-tools/products/skin-earth-vitality-stratum-aesthetics-facial-cups?variant=40797445881991Takeaways* Holistic skincare considers the whole system rather than just individual parts of the body.* Eye cream may be beneficial for specific concerns, but it's important to address underlying causes.* Ingredients like plant peptides, niacinamide, and caffeine can support dark circles and puffiness.* Facial massage and lifestyle modifications can also help with eye concerns.* Hooded eyes and red, dry or rashy skin around the eyes can be addressed with massage and topical support.* Addressing the root cause of eye concerns is essential for proper healing.* Listen to your intuition and have intention behind your skincare practices.* Share the episode with someone who may benefit from the information.* Next week's episode will discuss intuitive skincare and the fear of the sun.Chapters00:00Introduction00:44Eye Cream: Do I Need One?03:48Comprehensive Perspective on Eye Concerns06:07Rewriting the Stories About Appearance08:09Eye Cream: Personalized Approach10:24Proper Application of Eye Cream11:23Dark Circles: Causes and Ingredients15:56Hyperpigmentation: Causes and Ingredients16:56Puffy Eyes: Causes and Ingredients20:10Chinese Medicine Perspective on Eye Concerns21:36Stress and Blood Pressure Connection22:59Crow's Feet: Causes and Ingredients25:46Hooded Eyes: Causes and Massage Techniques28:15Red, Dry, Rashy Skin: Causes and Topical Support32:03Conclusion This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

SummaryIn this episode, Emily Davis discusses facial oils and moisturizers. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the chemical composition of oils and how it can affect the skin. She explains the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats and their impact on the skin's barrier function. Emily also addresses the debate around polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and tallow in skincare. She recommends using a blend of oils rather than a single oil and discusses the benefits of moisturizers. Emily concludes by encouraging listeners to make informed choices for their skin and to stay curious.Takeaways* Understanding the chemical composition of oils can help in choosing the right oils for your skin.* Saturated fats provide a protective barrier for the skin, while unsaturated fats are more easily absorbed and support the skin's natural barrier function.* The debate around polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and tallow in skincare requires nuance and consideration of individual skin types and needs.* Using a blend of oils and a hydrosol can be an alternative to creams that contain strong emulsifiers.* Moisturizers are important for maintaining the skin's hydration and should be the last step in a skincare routine.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment03:18 Remembering Danna Omari04:02 Facial Oils and Moisturizers08:19 The Practice of Oil Application20:06 Saturated and Unsaturated Fats24:14 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids29:23 Debate around PUFAs and Tallow31:42 Exploring Tallow38:01 Moisturizers and Creams41:29 Using Oils in Skincare Routine42:24 Conclusion and Next EpisodeLinks:https://stratumaesthetics.com/https://susanmparker.com/Mountain Rose Herbs Affiliate Link This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Join esthetician Emily Davis as she demystifies the world of skincare through her holistic lens. You can find Emily’s curated skincare shop online at https://stratumaesthetics.com/You can find her membership community rootedWELL at: https://rootedwell.circle.so/home* Discussion Highlights:* Tonics/Toners/Mists:* Serve as aqueous solutions post-cleansing.* Prepare skin for absorption of subsequent skincare products.* Offer various benefits like hydration, clarifying, and soothing.* Can replace serums in minimalist skincare routines.* Hydrosols:* Natural aromatic plant waters produced through steam distillation of plants.* Sustainable, gentle alternatives to essential oils in skincare.* Easily made at home using fresh/dried plant materials and basic equipment.* Serums:* Contain higher concentrations of active ingredients.* Various types including retinoids, vitamin C, niacinamide, and mushrooms.* Considerations for synthetic versus natural sources and their effects on skin health.* Incorporating Tonics and Serums:* Use toner in the morning post-cleansing, followed by serum and moisturizer.* Experiment with different tonics and serums to find what suits individual skin needs.* Layer serums based on consistency and allow time for absorption between layers.* Some ingredients like retinoids and less stable vitamin C derivatives are recommended for nighttime use. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Listen in as holistic esthetician Emily Davis provides valuable insights into the art of exfoliation. Discover how to reframe your approach, support your skin's natural renewal process, and choose the right exfoliation methods for your unique needs. Gain a deeper understanding of skincare that balances science with intuition for glowing, healthy skin.Find Emily’s online curated skin care shop: https://stratumaesthetics.com/Join rootedWELL a community for people who want to reconnect with their vitality through lifestyle practice: https://rootedwell.circle.so/homePurchase herbs at Mountain Rose Herbs: http://aspireiq.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=24&aff_id=10151Key Takeaways:* Reframing Exfoliation: Exfoliation is more than just scrubbing away dead skin; it's about maintaining skin balance and barrier function.* Skin Renewal Process: Envision your skin's renewal as layers of bricks continually renewing, aided by enzymes.* Factors Affecting Skin Sloughing: Aging, hormones, dehydration, and stress can slow skin shedding, necessitating gentle exfoliation.* Supporting Skin Health: Hydrate internally and topically to support natural skin renewal.* Types of Exfoliation: Explore manual and chemical methods with caution, considering their impact on skin health.* Choosing the Right Approach: Consider your skin type, climate, and conditions to tailor exfoliation.* Medications and Exfoliation: Exercise caution with medications like retinoids, corticosteroids, and antibiotics, as they may interact with exfoliants.* Mindful Skincare: Cultivate a deep connection with your skin, focusing on intuitive care rather than rigid routines. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by all of the skincare products or dependent on others to guide your choices, this series is just for you. I’m here to demystify purchasing skincare and help you to make informed decisions by deciphering ingredient decks – the key to unlocking your skincare journey.Holistic Skincare 101: Getting Started with CleansingToday, the focus is on cleansing, the foundational step in any skincare routine. Cleansing isn't just about removing surface impurities; it's a vital process that primes your skin, setting the stage for optimal skincare absorption. Think of it as the first step towards fostering a deeper connection with your body's largest organ – your skin.The Importance of Cleansing:* Removes stagnant oils, pollution, makeup, and other impurities.* Prepares the skin for subsequent skincare products, enhancing their effectiveness.* Allows for tactile exploration of the skin's condition, fostering a deeper understanding of its needs.During a facial, cleansing serves as a pivotal moment for skin analysis, guiding subsequent treatment decisions.Dispelling Beauty Industry Notions:The beauty industry has long perpetuated the notion that our bodies are inherently unclean, fostering a sense of disconnect and reliance on products for validation. However, skincare isn't merely about conforming to societal standards but rather about nurturing our skin's health (and our mental/emotional health).The Ritual of Cleansing:Cleansing isn't a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Here's what your cleansing ritual should entail:* Clean hands and mild water temperature are essential.* Remove makeup before cleansing.* Apply cleanser to dry skin and gently massage, avoiding aggressive scrubbing.* Follow up with a soft cloth for removal.* Opt for once-daily cleansing, preferably in the evening, adjusting based on your skin's needs.Double Cleansing: Is It for You?While some swear by double cleansing, it's not universally necessary. Experimentation is key to determining what works best for your skin type and lifestyle.Exploring Cleanser Types and Ingredients:Different cleansers cater to varying skin types:* Oil Cleansing: Suitable for all skin types, effectively removes impurities while maintaining moisture balance.* Cream Cleansing: Ideal for dry or sensitive skin, it offers nourishing properties without stripping the skin.* Gel Cleanser: Best for oily and combination skin, provides a lightweight, foamy cleanse.* Clay Cleanser: Suited for oily skin, it absorbs excess oil and impurities.* Powder Cleanser: Versatile option for all skin types, activated with water for a gentle cleanse.* Foaming Cleanser: Generally geared towards oily skin, though may be too harsh for some due to its foaming properties.Navigating Ingredient Decks:Understanding ingredient decks is crucial for informed skincare choices:* Familiarize yourself with common skincare ingredients and their purposes.* Prioritize transparency and seek brands with clear ingredient lists.* MY red flag ingredients are: sulfates and multiple surfactants and emulsifiers, fragrances, harsh exfoliants, and harsh synthetic preservatives.* Consider your skin type and concerns when scrutinizing ingredient decks.Choosing the Right Ingredients:Look for cleansers featuring:* Hydrosols or plant waters for gentle cleansing.* Ingredients like honey, enzymes, and herbal infusions for added benefits.* Biodegradable emulsifiers and surfactants to support the skin barrier.Empowering Your Skincare Journey:Armed with knowledge, you're now equipped to navigate the vast landscape of skincare confidently. Embrace the journey, experiment with different products, and prioritize your skin's health above all else. Remember, skincare is not just about outward appearance but also about nurturing a deeper relationship with yourself. Let this series be your guide on this transformative journey towards radiant, healthy skin. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Summary In this episode, Emily Davis introduces the topic of selecting the best skincare for your skin. She emphasizes the importance of empowering yourself in skincare decisions and understanding your own skin. Emily also discusses the significance of lifestyle in achieving lasting change in your skin. Emily provides a crash course on skin types and conditions, as well as the importance of a healthy skin barrier. She concludes by discussing cell-to-cell communication and the role of hydration in skincare.LINKS:rootedWELL Community: https://rootedwell.circle.so/homeStratum Aesthetics: https://stratumaesthetics.com/TakeawaysEmpower yourself in skincare decisions by understanding your own skin and making informed choices.Lifestyle is the foundation for lasting change in your skin. Skincare treatments alone are not enough.Join the RootedWELL Community to reconnect with ancestral practices and seasonal living.Understand your skin type and conditions to make better product selections.Maintain a healthy skin barrier and support cell-to-cell communication and hydration for optimal skin health.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Invitation01:16 Empowering Yourself in Skincare04:05 Skincare as the Frosting, Lifestyle as the Cake08:13 Having Intention in Skincare08:48 Understanding Skin Type and Conditions12:26 Determining Skin Type13:24 Skin Conditions21:01 Understanding the Skin Barrier24:53 Cell-to-Cell Communication and Hydration This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor; I'm an esthetician, herbalist, and wellness enthusiast. Nothing that I discuss is meant to be taken as medical advice. It is information that I am excited to share with you to spark your curiosity and give you something to explore further on your wellness journey. You must look into anything that you consume to be aware of the contraindications. Just because it is a plant doesn't mean it is benign and it doesn't mean it's meant for everyone's body or every situation. I never want to contribute to health anxiety; rather, I want to remind you of your innate power. It's your right and responsibility to discern what is appropriate for your individual health needs and consult with your inner knowing so that you can take what resonates and leave the rest.As we approach Valentine's Day, I thought this topic would be appropriate. It's also the heavenly birthday of my soul dog, who I lost the Christmas before last, and so for me, it's a time when my grief over that bears itself very fresh in my heart again. But I also know Valentine’s day can bring up some mixed feelings for lots of people. But more than that, it's always a time to care for our physical and our energetic heart. Before I get into the herbs today, I want to briefly talk about how they can be accessible to you because I know it can feel intimidating. Because it isn't talked about, there aren't commercials for it - which I think is great because it keeps plants sacred, but I do want to break down the intellectual and physical barriers. I recommend the book "The Herbal Medicine-Maker's Handbook: A Home Manual" by James Green or the Modern Herbal Dispensary: A Medicine Making Guide by Thomas Easley and Steven Horne. You can also consider:* Growing it yourself* Local apothecary* Local herb farms* Mountain Rose Herbs* Pacific BotanicalsWhen I went to herb school in 2020, one of my favorite things that we learned about was "heart medicine."This wasn't referring to a stent or medication but rather herbs that evoke feelings of warmth, love, compassion, and emotional openness. These herbs may be used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and grief or to promote feelings of love, joy, and inner peace.In yoga, heart-opening postures are ones that physically and energetically expand and open the chest area where the physical heart sits, and where the heart chakra also is positioned.Interestingly, most often, when an herb is supportive to the emotional heart, it is also an herb that is supportive to the physical heart.It makes sense that the energetic and emotional heart overlaps the physical heart.The heart is not just a mechanical pump. The physical heart experiences the effects of emotions through a combination of neural, hormonal, and biochemical pathways that influence its health and functioning over time. When we experience emotions such as love, compassion, or sadness, our brain sends signals to the heart through the autonomic nervous system. For example, feelings of love and compassion can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a decrease in heart rate and a sense of calmness and relaxation. Conversely, emotions like fear or anxiety can activate the sympathetic nervous system, causing the heart to beat faster and blood pressure to rise in preparation for a fight-or-flight response. Over time, chronic stress, unresolved emotions, or traumatic experiences can have a cumulative effect on the physical heart. Additionally, research suggests that emotions can directly impact the functioning of the heart muscle cells and the electrical signals that regulate heart rhythm. So it makes a lot of sense that heart-opening, emotional heart-supporting herbs would impact the physical heart.There is a concept in herbalism called the Doctrine of Signatures: this states that nature provides clues or "signatures" to humans about the potential uses of plants for healing purposes. According to the Doctrine of Signatures, plants exhibit physical characteristics, such as color, shape, texture, or growth habits, that correspond to the organs or bodily systems they are believed to benefit.Signatures for the heart and circulatory system include:* Plants with heart-shaped leaves or flowers, like Hawthorn (Crataegus), which is beneficial for heart health.* Red-Colored Plants: Plants with red-colored fruits, flowers, or roots have historically been associated with blood and circulation. Examples include red berries like raspberries and strawberries, red root vegetables like beets, and herbs like hibiscus and red clover.* Vascular-Like Patterns: Some plants have intricate vascular-like patterns in their leaves or stems, which have been interpreted as signatures for supporting the circulatory system. For example, Ginkgo biloba leaves have a distinctive vein pattern and are traditionally used to improve circulation.* Thorny or Spiky Plants: Plants with thorns or spiky leaves have sometimes been associated with stimulating circulation or breaking up stagnation. Hawthorn (Crataegus), for example, has thorns and is known for its historical use in supporting heart health.* Plants Growing Near Water: Some traditional herbalists believe that plants growing near water sources may have a connection to fluid balance and circulation. Examples include water-loving plants like watercress and water lilies.Because I am an esthetician, I would be remiss to not cover how circulatory plants support skin health.Improved Blood Flow: Circulatory plants are believed to improve blood circulation throughout the body, including to the skin. Enhanced blood flow can help deliver oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, promoting their health and vitality. This increased circulation can also facilitate the removal of waste products and toxins from the skin, supporting its detoxification processes.Enhanced Nutrient Delivery: Many circulatory plants contain compounds that support the integrity of blood vessels and capillaries, helping to ensure efficient nutrient delivery to the skin. For example, herbs rich in flavonoids like bilberry and horse chestnut can strengthen blood vessel walls, reducing leakage and improving nutrient transport.Anti-inflammatory Effects: Some circulatory plants have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate skin conditions characterized by inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis. By reducing inflammation, these plants may help soothe irritated skin and promote healing.Antioxidant Protection: Circulatory plants often contain antioxidants that help protect skin cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This protection can help prevent premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.Wound Healing: Certain circulatory plants have been traditionally used for their wound-healing properties. By promoting circulation and providing nourishment to damaged skin tissues, these plants can support the natural healing process and facilitate the repair of wounds, cuts, and abrasions.10 Heart-Opening Herbs To Try Out:* Rose: Plants in the rose family are considered heart-opening. Roses often have petals that resemble the shape of a heart. This heart-shaped appearance has led to the belief that roses are beneficial for heart health and emotional well-being, symbolizing love, compassion, and emotional openness. Rose can be interacted with by drinking a tea with rose petals in it. My favorite way is to apply rose essential oil over the heart during times of grief. Rose flower essence and rose hydrosol are also beneficial. Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, can be incorporated into tea, or rose hip seed oil is a lovely vitamin C-rich skincare ingredient. Plants in the rose family are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant, cooling, and anti-inflammatory actions, making them excellent tonic medicine for healthy hearts.* Hawthorn: Hawthorn is rich with herbal folklore. Druids believed that hawthorn trees housed fairies, and the white blossoms were seen as portals through which fairies could enter and exit the human world. Hawthorn trees were also associated with love and fertility, serving as symbols of protection and blessings for marriages and family life. Hawthorn supports heart health and is often used in herbalism for its cardiovascular benefits.* Wild Cherry Bark: Indigenous populations have long used wild cherry bark for various ailments, including coughs, colds, fevers, headaches, bronchitis, and sore throats. In Chinese medicine, supporting the lungs can help release grief, making wild cherry bark a potentially heart-supportive herb.* Damiana: Damiana is used in traditional Mexican medicine as a heart opener and mood lifter. It supports heart health by promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and improving circulation. Its yellow flowers symbolize emotional upliftment and warmth associated with heart-opening herbs.* Cacao: Cacao has been revered in Mesoamerican cultures as the food of the gods. It improves blood flow, reduces blood clotting, and strengthens venous tissue, benefiting heart health. Consuming raw cacao offers several potential benefits for heart health and the vascular system due to its flavenoid content.* Linden: Linden induces feelings of joy and happiness and contains quercetin, which reduces inflammation, especially in the heart and cardiovascular system. It's often considered a hug in a mug and supports cardiovascular health.* Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is an adaptogenic herb that supports resilience in the face of stress. It regulates blood sugar and blood pressure, fosters feelings of love, compassion, and spiritual growth, and is considered sacred in Hindu culture.* Motherwort: Motherwort, known as "lion-hearted" in Latin, calms the heart, nurtures, and grounds. It has a tonic effect on the cardiovascular system, regulating heart rhythm and circulation. Motherwort is often consumed in tincture form due to its bitterness.These herbs offer a holistic approach to heart health, supporting not

 Find more about how to incorporate facial massage on my Instagram and website!There is no better time to restore focus to your self-love practice.  You’re in the right place today if you're looking for holistic self-care practices that go beyond surface-level solutions and want to foster a deeper connection with yourself.Facial massage has proven to be a powerful conduit to wholeness and well-being across time and culture. With roots deeply embedded in ancient healing traditions spanning diverse civilizations, from China to Egypt, this practice is more than just a beauty regimen (although that in its self it is deeply sacred; it is a timeless ritual of self-care and discovery. Passed down through generations, the art of facial massage has evolved, each culture infusing its unique touch into the pursuit of inner balance. The practice persists as a testament to the universal belief in the transformative power of mindful touch. Today, as we revive and embrace these ancient techniques, we connect with a shared human history, invoking the wisdom of our ancestors and reclaiming the ageless path to well-being through the gentle embrace of touch.By embracing facial massage as a regular practice, you will find that it quiets the chatter of an overactive mind, allows you to release the energy of anything else from earlier in the day, and assists in dropping into deeper states of relaxation. By the end of this podcast episode, my hope is that I have inspired you to take action by incorporating facial massage into your bedtime wind-down tonight.  So let’s go.There will be an episode in the near future on the benefits of facial massage on your physical body, but equally important are the effects of facial massage on the emotional and energetic body.  This is one of my favorite activities to engage in right before bed to release the energy from the day and prepare myself for restful sleep.Here is what makes it so great for your emotional and energetic body: * Stress Reduction:* Face massage requires you to be focused on what you are doing and present in the current moment.   The gentle, rhythmic movements signal to your brain that it’s safe to shift into a space of rest. Relaxation Response: * Reduction in Cortisol Levels: In the evening, cortisol must be low, but modern life can tamper with this natural hormone shift.  You can help reduce cortisol production by gently massaging your face as you are winding down for sleep. * Quiets an Overactive Mind* Face massage takes focus.  When done properly, you are also engaging in some focused breath.  Not only will many reflex points stimulated when thoroughly massaging the face naturally quiet a chattery monkey mind, but the repetitive, rhythmic movements naturally calm the internal dialogue. * Enhanced Mood:* Endorphin Release:* Facial massage, like any form of massage, can stimulate the release of endorphins. Endorphins are neurotransmitters known as "feel-good" hormones that can induce a sense of pleasure and well-being, ultimately improving mood.* Self-Care and Empowerment:* Incorporating facial massage into a self-care routine can contribute to a sense of empowerment and well-being. Taking time for oneself and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-care often leads to improved mood and emotional resilience.* Balancing Energy:Facial Reflexology and Energetic Meridians:* Informed by reflexology principles, massage harmonizes the body's energy, offering not only physical relaxation but also a sense of balance and vitality* In the context of facial massage, understanding energetic meridians becomes crucial, as these invisible pathways channel energy throughout the body, and by massaging the face, you positively impact the flow of vitality throughout your body. * Imagine your energetic meridians as the invisible network of underground rivers in the landscape of your body. Just like the hidden currents beneath the Earth's surface, your meridians carry the flow of vitality, unseen but ever-present, shaping the terrain of your well-being. Their influence and interconnectedness profoundly impact the landscape of your holistic health.SO to recap we’ve talked about how massage can reduce stress, Quiet a chatty mind, improve your mood, and balance the energyflow through your body.  We also discussed the best way to engage in facial massage and learn how to do this on yourself.  I hope you are leaving this time together feeling inspired.  If so, share it with a friend who you think would enjoy it, and hit the subscribe button so you are sur to never miss an episode.  If you would like to hang out with me more, I have an online membership community called rootedWELL.  In this community we focus on resorting vitality through ancient lifestyle practices.  You can find that and more at my website: stratumaesthetics.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com

Join your favorite holistic esthetician and herbalist as we unlock the secrets of ancient skincare practices and explore the beauty of seasonal living, herbalism, and TRUE holistic well-being for you and the broader ecosystem.This trailer is a sneak peek at what is to come! Get ready for a podcast that was made to not only nourish your skin, but your soul! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stratum.substack.com