2201 Jackson BLVD, Suite 100, Rapid City, South Dakota 57702

(605) 716-0811


Blog Layout

Stress Management

May 04, 2022

Stress Management

During highly stressful times it is easy for the mind to wander to dark places and exaggerate possible outcomes of a given situation. When times are difficult it is easy to become anxious about the future.

It is natural for our minds to think negatively about the possible outcomes. This type of thinking causes us stress and increases cortisol levels in our body. Cortisol is a stress hormone in the brain. If not managed, chronic stress can lead to serious physical and cognitive health problems, such as:

 

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Digestive problems
  • Headaches
  • Heart disease
  • Sleep problems
  • Weight gain
  • Memory and concentration impairment

 

However, there are ways to actively manage stress and avoid long-term activation of our stress-response system. Besides eating healthy, exercising, and staying in touch with loved ones, you can manage the thoughts in your mind, effectively lowering your cortisol levels and reducing stress. One of the most effective ways to do this is through meditation. And, contrary to what many believe, meditation does not need to be done in a Zen like place. You can do it anywhere you can find a quiet space to sit, focus and relax.


Try the following and don’t worry if you get frustrated because your thoughts wonder and you do not feel like you are good at it. It takes practice and it is really about quieting the mind and gaining control over your thoughts

 

  • Sit straight and comfortably on a cushion or a chair.
  • Put on music, if that helps to calm your mind before beginning to meditate. Turn it off once you begin.
  • Set a timer. Try starting with five minutes and work your way up to twenty minutes over time, which may take weeks
  • Take a couple deep breathes, inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth.
  • Close your eyes and breathe normally through your nose, with your mouth closed.
  • Focus your mind on the breath moving in and out of your nostrils, or on the rise and fall of your belly.
  • When your mind drifts off, and this will happen often, gently bring it back and refocus on your breaths or the rise and fall of your belly.
  • When time is up, open your eyes and listen to the world around you for a moment before getting up.

 

Find a consistent time to do this daily. Make it before you reward yourself with coffee, after you get dressed for work or whenever you find is a good time for you. Just be consistent and create a routine. Over time you will find that you are calmer, less anxious and better able to control the thoughts in your head.



Five Ways to Maintain a Youthful Appearance
04 May, 2022
One of the greatest reoccurring issues with time is that it’s impossible to slow it down or rewind it. However, there are ways to minimize its impact on your skin with the use of highly-effective procedures, facials, diet and skin care tips. Until someone finds the fountain of youth, refer to the following five best ways to maintain a youthful appearance. How to Best Maintain a Youthful Appearance Everyone’s skin care needs are unique, and finding a regimen or treatment that works isn’t always easy. To help you find the best match for your skin, start with these six recommendations to sustain a glowing, youthful appearance. Botox Otherwise known as the most popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment, botox is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to treat wrinkles in the forehead, neck, lower face, and mouth. Botox comes from a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin, which is produced from a non-toxic organism found in natural environments called Clostridium botulinum. After Botox is injected, the chemical blocks nerve transmission in nearby muscles, freezing the surrounding area. Since the muscle can’t contract, the wrinkles begin to relax. This process allows them to soften and further prevents new lines from appearing. If you’re seeking noticeably smoother skin and reduced wrinkles, Botox may be a great option to investigate. Microneedling Microneedling is another minimally invasive technique used to treat fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. During the procedure, tiny punctures are made in the first layer of the skin using micro-fine needles. These microscopic injuries stimulate the body’s wound healing processes, boosting collagen production and allowing for the growth of new skin cells. The positive results of microneedling have made the procedure increasingly popular for reducing visible scars and wrinkles. HydraFacial HydraFacial can cater to all skincare issues, including fine lines, elasticity, tone, texture, dark spots, oily skin, and enlarged pores. This facial is so popular that one is performed every 15 seconds. The HydraFacial device cleanses, exfoliates, and infuses the skin with award-winning serums tailored to your specific concerns. Because it can treat such a wide range of issues and complexions, the HydraFacial appeals to all age groups. Skin care Regimen The youthfulness and overall health of your skin is largely a reflection of your skin care routine. Simple acts such as washing your face with a gentle cleanser is crucial to help remove bacteria or oils from your face. Your skin care regimen should also include exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and achieve a healthy glow. Your skin care steps should always end with moisturizing your skin. Lack of skin hydration is a huge contributor to fine lines and wrinkles, and adding a quality moisturizer to your regimen can help fight signs of aging. Healthy Diet One of the biggest keys outside of your beauty routine to maintain a youthful appearance is to watch your diet. While your body breaks down sugary foods and processed carbs, sugar bonds to molecules found in collagen and elastin. This bond degrades them and leads to the appearance of wrinkles. If you’re craving something sweet, try opting for dark chocolate. In addition to aging the skin, poor eating habits can also cause acne and inflammation. Try incorporating lean proteins, vegetables, and Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, to boost collagen, fight fine lines and inflammation, and maintain radiating skin. Are you interested in trying out any of these tricks to remain looking youthful and vibrant? Make an appointment with our skilled technicians at Modern Rituals today or contact us with any questions you might have.
Sleep and Your Skin
04 May, 2022
Most of us know that getting enough sleep is important to our overall health. However, in this busy world we live sleep is one of those things we tend to sacrifice. Research is suggesting that doing such could be one of the most destructive things we could do to our body and overall health.
Share by: