Finding the True Harmony within you

Exfoliation

Our skin sheds and sluffs off dead skin cells about every 30 days. However the older we get the less able our skin is to shed all the dead skin cells effectively. That being the case our skin surface builds up more and more dead skin cells and debris, preventing the absorption of healthy skin products and nourishment.

Exfoliation happens in two ways. One way is manual exfoliation by using facial scrubs. This is helpful in removing the outer layer of dead skin cells but does not reach into our pores to clear out the debris. That requires enzymatic exfoliation which is what Aestheticians use during treatments. These enzymatic exfoliators are made up of various acids and natural enzymes that break down the dead skin cells that are deeply embedded in our pores.

 

The clearing out of this debris allows our skin to breath better and prevents bacterial infections and acne by removing what bacteria feeds on. It will minimize the appearance of our pores as they are not full of sebum and debris and are visibly cleaner.

 

After a true skin treatment our skin feels soft and looks healthy.

 

Lorri believes that achieving beautiful skin is more than just buying the right product; nutrition and healthy habits affect your skin too. Lorri gives each client the tools they need to be able to achieve the beautiful skin they desire. To schedule your appointment with Lorri at True Harmony call 480-539-6646 or email info@trueharmonywellness.com

.  True Harmony is located in Mesa conveniently near Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, Phoenix, Ahwatukee and Scottsdale.

How Reflexology Can Support the Menopause Experience

Regular reflexology treatments can support a menopausal woman physically, mentally and emotionally. It can help a woman tune into her body's needs, highlighting imbalances and areas which need attention. It can provide a safe space in which to relax, receive and be self-focused. Having an empathic reflexologist who understands the physical changes behind menopausal symptoms and takes her problems seriously can, in itself, relieve stress.  

 

Traci Fors is a gifted therapist whose areas of expertise include Reflexology, Cranial Unwinding and Toe Reading. She is greatly devoted to sharing her knowledge for the purpose of assisting others in their quest for personal growth and healing.  She is dedicated to bringing this work out into the world.  Her unique approach to Reflexology allows the body to flush toxins, relieves stress and encourage emotional unwinding with the most delicate of touch.  Since 2005 Traci has made an intensive study of Reflexology, Cranial Sacral Unwinding, Thoracic Outlet Release, Lymphatic, Therapeutic Massage and Toe Reading.  She is a graduate of Southwest Institute of Healing Arts.  Traci sees clientele at The Center For True Harmony Wellness and Medicine located in Mesa AZ, conveniently located near Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Phoenix, Ahwatukee, and Scottsdale AZ.  For information on Traci or services offered at The Center for True Harmony please visit our website at www.trueharmonywellness.com.

Feed Your Skin

 

Our skin eats. Its true. There are products available that contain nutrients that our skin loves. Lavendar, Rosemary, Neem and Bergamot are essential oils that are rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Neem is especially beneficial for your skin as an anti-bacterial.

Eating foods rich in anti-oxidants such as blueberries, pomegranates, etc. assist the skin in fighting free radicals that make the skin look dull. Carrots are loaded with Beta Carotene which helps protect the skin from sun damage such as hyperpigmentation or melasma. Omega 3 which is found in fish is very healthy and nourishing for our skin as well as our internal organs. If fish isn't appealing there are supplements available and Flax seed oil is a good source of Omega 3.

 

Lorri believes that achieving beautiful skin is more than just buying the right product; nutrition and healthy habits affect your skin too. Lorri gives each client the tools they need to be able to achieve the beautiful skin they desire. To schedule your appointment with Lorri at True Harmony call 480-539-6646 or email info@trueharmonywellness.com

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What we Know about H1N1 vaccinations and the Flu

The vaccination for the new H1N1 flu has been approved by FDA. This H1N1 flu was identified in April 2009, 5 months ago, a vaccination has already been developed and the FDA has approved. What we know about this virus changes everyday. No long term studies have been possible. How can the FDA put the new vaccine through the appropriate rigorous trials to determine whether or not it is safe after only 5 months? Let us not forget Vioxx (a NSAID approved by the FDA and then taken off the market due to increased risks of heart attack and stroke).

After the outbreak and identification of the new H1N1 flu, doctor’s visits and emergency room visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) did significantly increase. Wouldn’t that be expected after so much reporting on the television, internet and newspapers regarding the seriousness of the "swine-flu"?

Despite all the hype and fear surrounding the new H1N1 flu (swine flu) let us simplify the matter by breaking it down to what we KNOW.

According to the CDC’s FluView, this was the flu situation for the week of August 30 – September 5, 2009.

• Doctor’s visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) are increasing nationally. Visits to doctors for influenza-like illness are higher than what is expected during this time of year and have increased over the last four weeks.
• Total influenza
hospitalization rates for adults and children are similar to or lower than seasonal influenza hospitalization rates depending on age group, but are higher than expected in the summer months.
• The proportion of
deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) was low and within the bounds of what is expected in the summer.
• Eleven
states (Alaska, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Tennessee) and Guam are reporting widespread influenza activity at this time. Any reports of widespread influenza activity in August and September are very unusual.
• Almost all of the influenza
viruses identified were 2009 H1N1 influenza A viruses. These 2009 H1N1 viruses remain similar to the viruses chosen for the 2009 H1N1 vaccine, and remain susceptible to antiviral drugs (oseltamivir and zanamivir) with rare exception.

The CDC keeps tabs on all communicable diseases (diseases that passed from person to person) in the US, including ALL types of flu. The CDC also makes vaccination recommendations based on these facts.

Recommendations for the novel H1N1 vaccination by the CDC are as follows:

• pregnant women,
• people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age,
• health care and emergency medical services personnel,
• persons between the ages of 6 months through 24 years of age, and
• people from ages 25 through 64 years who are at higher risk for novel H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

According to media and news reports (not sure what the difference is between media and news these days) the 2 most important populations to get vaccinated are pregnant women and small children.

However, the effectiveness and safety of the vaccination for children and pregnant women is uncertain and still being studied.

Cases of the H1N1 flu are mainly occurring among children and young adults.

The vaccination has shown to illicit a strong immune response in the population tested (adults older that 18) with no short term side effects. But the H1N1 flu was first identified 5 months ago and no long term studies can be done. Is this a concern to anyone? And do we know that it will actually prevent people from contracting this flu?

The studies of the H1N1 vaccination have not been done with a comparison or control group and environmental factors like previous exposure to the virus have not been considered.

Adults over the age of 60 are showing pre-existing immunity to H1N1 flu virus. However, all other populations are not showing significant pre-existing immunity to this flu virus. Although the new H1N1virus caused many serious illnesses and was identified in April 2009, do we know how long it has been circulating amongst the people population?

The symptoms associated with the new H1N1 flu are the same as those for the seasonal flu and include:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• body aches
• headache
• chills
• fatigue
• diarrhea and vomiting

As with the seasonal flu, severity of the New H1N1 flu ranges from mild to severe with the most sever cases occurring in high-risk populations; children younger than five years old, pregnant women, and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions. About 70 percent of people who have been hospitalized with this 2009 H1N1 virus have had one or more of the following medical conditions: pregnancy, diabetes, heart disease, asthma and kidney disease.

According to the CDC, every year in the United States, on average:

• 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu;
• more than

200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications; and

about

36,000 people die from flu-related causes.

Most of the statistics being reported are referring to the seasonal flu. The truth is that we do not know what kind of impact this flu is going to have on the population. So far symptoms and mortality have not surpassed the season flu, however it is causing illness out side of the normal flu season.

So, whether or not you decide to have your season flu shot and the 2009 H1N1 flu shot, take steps to keep your self healthy.

Here are examples of easy to follow tips to enhance your immune system to prevent the flu or decrease the symptoms associated with the flu.

In addition to a good multivitamin and Probiotic:

Increase levels of vitamin C - 3gram daily

Increase levels of vitamin D3 – 5000IU daily

Increase dietary fiber – ground flax seed, apple pectin, whole grains

Decrease intake of processed foods, sugars, caffeine, and alcohol

Herbs that stimulate immune function - Echinacea, Goldenseal, Osha

Homeopathy - A number of combination remedies are available Over The Counter and are effective
Ex. Boiron Oscillococinum

Once you start to feel the onset of flu or flu-like symptoms

• Increased intake of Vitamin C - 6 grams a day to bowel tolerance
• Decrease intake of processed foods, sugars, and caffeine, and alcohol
• Eat foods that are easy to digest – broth based soups, lightly steamed vegetables, avoid red meat and limit consumption of all meat
• Herbal remedies are dependant on symptoms – see your Naturoapth for what herbs are right for you
• Homeopathy are dependant on symptoms – see your Naturoapth for what homeopathic remedy is right for you
• Essential oils – to be used in an inhalant steam bath
  Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary) – antispasmodic, antiseptic
  Mentha piperita (Peppermint) – antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial
  Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) – antiseptic, stimulating
  Eucalyptus globules (Eucalytpus) – decongestant, antiviral, antibacterial,expectorant
• Increase water intake - at least ½ of body weight in oz of water - dehydration can causes many complications associated with the flu.

Some of the above mentioned natural remedies should be avoided if you have certain medical conditions so discuss all natural treatments with your health care provider before using. It is important that you seek medical care if symptoms are severe or do not improve or subside in 7-10 days.

We recommend you discuss your healthcare picture with your PCP or Naturopath to construct your optimal protocol for prevention or treatment of the flu this season, especially if you have a higher risk of contracting the flu.

To discuss preventative healthcare, schedule your appointment with Dr Denise Grobe, Naturopathic Physician at The Center for True Harmony, call 480-539-6646. If you think you have the flu, call your family practice physician, OB physician, or Local Urgent Care.

The Acid Mantle and Caring for Your Skin

There are many layers of the epidermis in which an aesthetician treats. The acid mantle is a protective barrier formed by your skin using sebum (an oily secretion produced by our sebaceous glands) and sweat. These are produced naturally by your skin. This barrier prevents invasion by bacteria, fungi and other harmful invaders.

The use of harsh facial cleansers can break down the acid mantle allowing invaders such as bacteria to cause infection. Acne can be the result of compromising our acid mantle. Sodium Laureth/Laurel Sulfate, is a powerful surfactant used in many of our facial cleansers. Depending on the concentration in the product, this cleansing agent can be very harsh for our skin and cause the break down of the acid mantle. The sudsy effect we get when cleansing our skin with these products is the result of the Sodium Laureth Sulfate being combined with water and friction. We tend to equate this sudsy action with 'clean'. Unfortunately it is this action that is contributing to acid mantle injury. This compound is also used in car shampoos and floor cleansers. Our skin is far more fragile than a floor or a car right?

So how do we protect our acid mantle? First and foremost is the use of products that protect the PH of our skin. Our skin's PH is between 4.5 and 5.5 and if the product's PH is below 4.5, it is considered acidic and will break down the acid mantle. If the PH is above 6 then it will be considered alkaline and it can have the same effect. Try to avoid products that contain Sodium Laureth or Laurel Sulfates. If that isn't possible at least try to find a product where it isn't the first ingredient listed since that first ingredient tends to be considered the 'active ingredient' in a product.

I tell my clients that if they cannot afford a good healthy skin product the next best thing is nature. Use plain yogurt to cleanse your skin, it has lactic acid which will break down dirt and dead skin cells but will not alter the PH of your skin.

Keeping the acid mantle healthy will mean fewer pimples and acne caused by bacterial invasions.

Lorri believes that achieving beautiful skin is more than just buying the right product; nutrition and healthy habits affect your skin too. Lorri gives each client the tools they need to be able to achieve the beautiful skin they desire. To schedule your appointment with Lorri at True Harmony call 480-539-6646 or email info@trueharmonywellness.com

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Reflexology can Help with Breast Milk

On a physical level, reflexology can boost hormone levels to stimulate more or better quality, breast milk. It encourages healing on every level: helping to stabilize mood swings, adjust to the body’s new sleeping and eating patterns all while energizing both body and mind.

New Moms- Join Traci Thursday October 15th from 11:00-12:00noon for her baby reflexology class and learn all kind of facts about Reflexology, and how to deal with common infant ailments such as colic and constipation in a natural way.  This class is FREE!  This class is held every other month, so if you would like to come but can't make the October class, check back in December!  RSVP to 480-539-6646.

Or, call to scheudle your reflexology session with Traci at 480-539-6646.

Botanical: True Harmony's Exclusive All Natural Skin Care Line!

Botanical is a therapeutic, handmade, all natural skin care product and facial line created by the Center for True Harmony's licensed aesthetician and botanical skin care expert, Jacqueline Gillam.  Botanical is effective for all skin types and is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. Botanical is 100% free of parabens, dyes, and synthetic fragrances and only uses the highest quality ingredients. 

 

The full skincare line and Botanical Facial is available exclusively at True Harmony.  For more information about Botanical or to schedule your Botanical Facial with Jacqueline Gillam, call 480-539-6646, today!

 

 

'Prana' Life Force Energy for the Skin

The food pyramid shows the dietary recommendations for a healthy body with vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes taking a larger role in our health than meats.  In addition to the vitamins and minerals necessary for optimal health, there is a new philosophy regarding the actual 'life force' received from eating organic, fresh fruits, vegetables, raw grains and legumes.  In the Indian language of Sanskrit the description of this life force is 'Prana'.

A good way to describe Prana is to think of it as little particles of energy.  Walking in a forest or near a riverbank where there is a lot of foliage can give a feeling of serenity and peacefulness.  That is the absorption of Prana from the plants around us.  The Prana energy is absorbed into the body. This energy can also be digested by eating fresh fruits and vegetables.  Organic is preferable as there are no pesticides used that drain the food of its life force energy.  Sprouts, seeds, and root foods are rich in Prana.

The skin on the outside of an individual is a good indication of what is going on inside.  Eating Prana rich foods provides the healthy glow and detoxifies the body ridding it of congestive energies that may cause acne, dermatitis, eczema and other skin maladies.  While some skin problems are due to genetics, eating fresh foods can enhance the body's ability to fight and prevent or minimize the onset of these diseases.
 

Ayurveda is a form of alternative medicine that references the benefits of Prana in treatments of numerous ailments including skin ailments.  Ayurveda is an India Sanskrit that means 'life science' and is a pranic system of medicine.  An Ayurvedic Skin Practitioner will utilize this theory in the treatment of the skin by treating the mind and soul as well. The philosophy being that mind, body and soul are all connected.  One of the first prescriptions these practitioners will give is to eat more fresh, unaltered (meaning boiled, baked, frozen, etc.) foods directly from the earth to absorb the prana.

 

Lorri Woodmansee is one of the fabulous aestheticians here at True Harmony.  For the month of October, she is running a Fall Special utilizing raw natural fruits and vegetables in her facials.  For $50 you can choose a 'Pumpkin' Facial by Rhonda Allison or a 'Fall Organic Facial' utilizing fresh produce for a soothing treatment that feeds your skin. 

Reflexology for Headaches

The upper part of the underside of the big toe and the lower part of the toenail of the big toe correspond to the head and brain. The lower portion of the upper side of the big toe corresponds to the neck. When reflexology locates a tender spot on the part of the big toe corresponding to the neck, applying pressure to this spot will relieve the tenderness in the toe and tension in the neck that could be causing headaches. Schedule you appointment with Traci Fors and allow her to teach you this technique.

Traci Fors is a licensed massage therapist and reflexologist at The Center for True Harmony.  Call 480-539-6646 today to schedule a Reflexology session with her.  Your feet (and body) will thank you!

Rhonda Allison on Preventing Wrinkles

"90% of all wrinkles are caused by sun damage, so protection is essential. Experience and my research has shown that natural physical blocks of Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide offer the safest approach to healthy sun care. An SPF of 30 blocks 97% of UV rays and when that
high of an SPF is achieved with a natural, non-irritating ingredient such as Zinc Oxide, the skin is getting nourishing support. Partnered with extracts of algae to reduce inflammation and supply the skin with energy and an herb complex of Sandalwood, Corktree Bark and Barley to
retain moisture in the skin, we have an ideal defense against sun exposure. Use a broad-spectrum sun protector that is chemical-free and reduces trans-epidermal water loss (a contributor to the aging of
skin). Remember, a healthy skin is a hydrated skin!" ~ Rhonda Allison

Call 480-539-6646 to schedule a skin consultation with Tasia, one of our fabulous aestheticians at True Harmony.  She can guide you as to which Rhonda Allision products will be best for your skin type.