Seaweed Detoxifying & Remineralizing Mask

When selecting a seaweed powder, make sure it is the kind that can be used on the face. Certain Types of seaweed are meant for body body wraps only and would bee too harsh on the delicate skin of the face. Kelp, a seaweed which grows in rich ocean beds, is known to nourish the sensory nerves and brain membranes. It is also considered a natural emollient,and is very high in vitamins and minerals. While the mask will pull impurities out of the skin, the seaweed will help restore some of its lost nutrients.

Recipe: 4 tablespoons Kelp powder 1.2 cup aloe vera gel 3 tablespoons distilled water Combine kelp powder and gel in a small bowel. Slowly add water until mixture reaches the consistency of a thick paste. Apply to face and neck with fingers and relax for 15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water and pat dry. Moisturize.

Benefits of Cranial Sacral Therapy

Cranial sacral therapy (also known as craniosacral therapy) is a gentle, noninvasive form of bodywork that addresses the bones of the head, spinal column and sacrum. The goal is to release compression in those areas which alleviates stress and pain. Cranial sacral therapy seeks to restore the natural position of the bones and can decrease stress from chronic injuries as well as provide relief from migraine headaches, neck and back pain, temporomandibular joint disorder (the inflammation of the joint that connects the lower jaw to the skull) and more. According to the National Headache Foundation, approximately 28 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches. Often, migraines are triggered or exacerbated by stress and poor sleep. In a study published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine, researchers found that participants who received bodywork like Cranial Sacral Therapy had better quality sleep and fewer migraines than participants who didn't. Effects even lasted up to three weeks after therapy ended. Another way to address pain in the head is through scalp massage, which can be extremely relaxing. "Many people don't realize we have muscles on our scalp," says Valerie Johnson, a Chiropractor and the teacher training coordinator for Steiner Education "Those muscles are responsible for making our facial expressions, and there can be a lot of tension there, especially when staring at a computer all day or when we are under a lot of stress." Not only that, but the scalp tends to get ignored on a daily basis. "It's tension we're not usually aware of," Wheeler says. "Many people feel that tension melt away when their head is massaged." You can add Cranial Sacral Therapy to any massage session by asking your professional massage therapist before your session begins.

Summer Citrus Soak

This is perfect for those steamy summer nights when you can't seem to cool off. Rosemary is stimulating. Lemon and peppermint are known for their refreshing and cooling properties. Peppermint has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs dating from 1000 B.C. If you have sensitive skin or are pregnant, do not use this bath. 4 drops lemon oil 2 drops rosemary oil 2 drops peppermint oil Juice of 1/2 lemon 2 tablespoons light safflower oil Combine all the ingredients. Add to cool or lukewarm tub.

Rajasthan Oatmeal Hand Treatment

This is based on a recipe acquired during travels to Northern India, where women commonly use oatmeal or almond meal to soften their hands.

2 tablespoons oatmeal or almond meal to soften their hands 1 egg yolk 1 tablespoon honey A few drops milk A few drops cider vinegar Combine all the ingredients to form a thick paste, adding just enough milk and vinegar to moisten the mixture. Apply to your hands, put on a pair of cotton gloves and leave on overnight.