Desert Health News - November-December 2024

. Wood therapy, or maderoterapia, is an innovative holistic treatment with roots in Asia that has gained significant traction in South America and now the United States. Its remarkable detoxifying effects, ability to stimulate key pressure points throughout the body, and ability to deliver noticeable results in a short amount of time have made it particularly popular among bodybuildersandindividualspursuing weight loss and body contouring. The practice involves the use of wooden instruments designed to effectively manipulate the skin, muscle and underlying tissue. One of the key components of wood therapy is the incorporation of a suction tool, which enhances blood flow and promotes lymphatic drainage. This combination makes the therapy especially beneficial for those looking to shed excess weight and reduce water retention, as it helps flush out toxins and improve overall body composition. Wood therapy tools are reminiscent of gua sha instruments but typically larger and specifically designed for sculpting and breaking down fascia. This aspect of the therapy often appeals to fitness enthusiasts who are focused on achieving a well- defined physique. Many clients target specific areas of concern like the abdomen, where stubborn fat can be particularly difficult to eliminate due to hormonal influences and lifestyle factors. Wood therapy effectively addresses this resistant tissue, often yielding visible results after just a few sessions. In addition to its weight loss benefits, wood therapy also provides relief for individuals experiencing pain or discomfort, particularly those dealing with lactic acid buildup from intense physicality. A specialized rolling tool is used to push out toxins and alleviate stress, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. Wood therapy is also known for its ability to reduce the appearance of cellulite by breaking up fat deposits and improving skin texture. This holistic approach not only addresses aesthetic concerns, but also promotes physical health as manipulation of tissues also enhances blood circulation, crucial for better nutrient transport throughout the body. Combining wood therapy with a sauna, sauna blanket or body wraps enhances the detoxification process and helps alleviate inflammation. For facial rejuvenation, wood therapy tools are specifically designed to target the delicate areas of the face and neck, effectively tightening the skin and stimulating collagen production. These smaller instruments are adept at navigating the intricate contours and creases of the face, making them ideal for enhancing natural beauty and achieving a youthful appearance. The duration of each session can vary significantly, lasting anywhere from 20 to 90 minutes, depending on the specific areas being treated and individual goals. To achieve optimal results, a series of three to 12 sessions is recommended. It is crucial to note that individuals taking blood thinners, those with blood pressure concerns, or those suffering from anemia should avoid these treatments. Coupled with a balanced diet and regular exercise, wood therapy is a holistic approach which can help accelerate visible improvements. AnaCetina is the founder andowner of CetinaRawNatural Beauty. Formore information or to book a consultation, visit www.cetinasalon.com or call (760) 778.1374. Two mature women walk into a bar. One has gray hair, the other is blonde. The blonde has glowing skin and perhaps a bit of Botox. The lady in gray seems to have spent a lifetime fly fishing without sun protection. Clearly, they have different ideas about what "aging gracefully" means, yet they’re friends. Why? Because they respect each other’s personal choices. That’s not always the case. Often our opinions about how we should age get in the way of accepting how other women have chosen to go on that journey. The way we choose to age is deeply personal, and each of us has the freedom to define our own path. Yet, with this freedom comes the need for acceptance — not only of our own choices but also of others. Acceptance cuts down on judgmental happy hour chatter like, “OMG, I would never….” or “What on earth was she thinking?” Always a bore to listen to. For many, the decision to stop coloring their hair and embrace their natural gray is a powerful statement of self-acceptance. It can signify confidence, authenticity and a comfort in one’s own skin. But others don’t like the way their gray looks on them (even a little) and will color their hair on the way to their own funeral. That’s perfectly fine, too. It’s a choice, not a mandate. The same goes for makeup. Some women scale back onmakeup routines as they age, going for that natural look, whatever natural means to them. But not everyone likes the way they look with a naked face andmay continue with their favorite cosmetics, finding joy and creativity in the process. Wearing makeup is not a sell out any more than going without makeup is a commitment to feminism. For those who choose to explore cosmetic procedures such as facelifts, Botox or fillers, the decision is often motivated by a desire to feel more aligned with an internal sense of youth, not an overall shallowness or vanity. And even if it is about vanity, the decision should be treated with the same level of respect as any other personal decision. But none of it matters more than the health of our skin. If our basic skin needs are not met, if we don’t hydrate, moisturize and protect (especially here in the desert), all the facelifts you can find won’t help in the long-term. Think of it as skin etiquette; taking care of one’s skin is good manners. There are very few people who like to look at parched, sallow, neglected skin. Healthy skin glows. It makes a person look friendly. And friendly people elicit smiles. So for that face in the mirror and the good of humanity, drink water, use a hyaluronic acid serum, moisturize daily, use sunblock and mind your own business. We’re all finding our own way, our own look and our own courage. Brook Dougherty of Indio is the founder of JustUs Skincare and welcomes your questions. She can be reached at (310) 266.7171 or brook@justusskincare.com . For more information, visit www.justusskincare.com . www.DesertHealthNews.com November/December 2024 www.cetinasalon.com Salon services using natural, artisanal ingredients without harsh chemicals Haircut and styling • Certified organic colorist • Lashes and brows Holistic facials • Special occasion makeup • Makeup and hair styling tutorials Sugar hair removal • Organic spray tanning • Skin dry brushing • Wood therapy Infrared sauna blanket for detox and inflammation Detoxing scalp and hair treatments All services are customized with herbs, oils and natural minerals curated by our team. 760.778.1374 | 354 S. Indian Canyon Drive | Palm Springs C tinasalon.com Cetina raw natural beauty ww w.desertglowspa .com • Injectables: Botox, Fillers, Sculptra • Laser services: skin resurfacing, acne treatment, hair removal, tattoo removal • Non-surgical thread lift • IPL photofacial • PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) • Microneedling • Chemical peels • Medical weight loss • Vitamin shots • IV drip • Body sculping "Pam was great. She was very thorough during my consultation and offered several options for treatment, without any pressure to do any particular treatment. I was very nervous going in, but Pam is very gentle and reassuring." Leslie Burns 760.565.3990 73241 Highway 111, Ste. 5A | Palm Desert desertglowspa.com Pamela Gossman DNP, APN, BC-FNP, CPHQ Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Feel confident and beautiful inside and out Desert Glow Medical Aesthetics and Wellness Health & Beauty The Valley ' s Leading Resource for Health and Wellness 16 www.justusskincare.com Aging Gracefully: The Power of Personal Choice By Brook Dougherty Wood therapy provides both medicinal and aesthetic benefits. Wood Therapy Carves Its Way into Wellness By Ana Cetina