The WHY Behind Facial Massage.
Now before I tell you some of the science behind facial massage, I must also tell you something that is very important. The way you approach your skincare & the intention you have behind it will shape your experience. So, let me share my intention behind aesthetics and the space I share with my clients.
From a holistic perspective, skincare is a way to get to know yourself on a deeper level, learning to understand what your body is telling you. It’s a way to give essential and vital energy back to yourself and a chance to create a fresh start during and after every service. It’s a way to get professional guidance on what you are putting on your face on a daily basis! It’s a way to get supportive encouragement to be your best self…because I believe you can. I know it’s hard and I know the journey is entirely imperfect but it is one we go on together. Our skin is a part of our holistic wellness. For it not to be taken into consideration for anyone looking to deepen their connection to their holistic health would be a missed opportunity. Aesthetics is a form of art, for us to play with what we do in the treatment room and perfect how it can help you feel and look your best! It is a fun & beautiful way to incorporate self care into your routine.
Now let’s bring that intention to the science behind facial massage! :)
First of all, our skin and brain both developed from the embryonic neuroectoderm, the same tissue in embryo during pregnancy, giving them a common origin! When we know this, it makes sense that they have means of communicating & affecting one another. The way this communication happens is like a telephone wire, physical sensory receptors stimulate neuroreceptors that deliver messages to the brain and vice versa. This is where facial massage comes into play!
So WHY facial massage?
Slows the body & mind down, relaxing us and triggering the parasympathetic nervous system
Loosens the tissues which increases movement, mobility, and elasticity
Increases blood flow that brings essential nourishment, minerals, and water to the skin
Stimulates collagen
Relieves headaches, migraines, neck/ jaw pain, and inflammation
It’s an antidote to a dull, sluggish, & lackluster appearance
It slows down the clock of aging and supports a preventative routine
Improves sleep & increases lymph circulation which aids the body in healing & reduces swelling
This is just the tip of the iceberg!
Most importantly, it can provide mental clarity! Taking small moments to give yourself permission to relax with massage increases dopamine & serotonin which are both responsible for happiness & self worth. It reduces anxiety & lowers cortisol levels by an average of 31%!
Better yet, the benefits do not end as soon as we lose physical contact with our skin! The chronic state of our repetitive facial expressions keep us stuck in corresponding emotions. Being able to relax muscle tension & chronic expressions will allow emotions to be released & can alter our emotional state! This means that the benefits can be experienced long after the massage ends!
So again, the perspective that you bring to the table when you are approaching your skincare will create your experience! I share this with you for you to craft your own intention with your skincare routine. And for you to do so while trying something new and knowing some facts of why it is good for you! Thank you for reading and I hope you have so much fun giving yourself a facial massage!
*Click here for a self guided facial massage tutorial!
*This blog was inspired by Velvet Root's Apothecary seasonal herbal subscription box! Check out her website to learn more!
