DeAnne and I were catching up via Face Time the other day, one of the many things we were discussing was how food can heal! We’re talking about real whole foods not processed foods. Some of you may know that DeAnne has been caring for her diabetic father and recently he has required more care. Since the quarantine began she has been shopping and cooking 3 meals a day, feeding him a much healthier diet. Well, last week his blood sugar levels were too low. During a virtual Doctors visit they resolved that his body no longer requires the amount of insulin he was prescribed. The doctor mentioned that his body is healing itself without medication and credited his healthier die. DeAnne says “If a grumpy old man can do it anyone can!”
For those of you who wish to feel healthier, more vibrant and energetic it’s as simple as what you eat. I’m not saying that it’s easy (sometimes those food cravings take a hold of you and you eat foods you shouldn’t, don’t fret just make the next meal a healthier one) but it gets easier with every meal you eat.
Here are a few tips you can incorporate in your everyday life to help your body to heal. Start by adding one! One a month, week, day or add them all at once. Whatever you can do.
- Drink 16 ounces of lemon/lime water every morning upon waking. (I blend a lemon peeled with the pith with 32 ounces of water). This helps to hydrate, purify and revitalize your body each morning.
- (I’m going to sneak this one in because it is so beneficial to your body) Celery Juice-yup, just plain celery juice nothing added-work your way up to at least 16 ounces a day. Start slow, celery juice can be a powerful and miraculous healing remedy and people are noticing the benefits it provides, such as clearer skin, improved digestion, less bloating, sustained energy, better mental clarity, weight loss, and stable moods, just to name a few.
- Remove all processed foods from your diet. Again, take it slowly if you need to but remove anything that comes in a package. e. Chips, Cereals, candy and frozen meals.
- Cut back on your protein consumption. If you eat the right foods you can get enough protein from your greens. i.e. Green peas, Spinach, Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, Button mushrooms and asparagus. If you are able to save that piece of meat for dinner and have fruits and greens until then.
- Cut Carbs-I’m not talking about complex carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables, I’m talking breads and pasta. (Wheat is not what it used to be, it has been so genetically modified that the body doesn’t know what to do with it. It can also feed viruses in your body. If you need your pasta every now and again try rice pasta but it is much more beneficial to use veggie noodles i.e. noodles made from zuchinni, yellow squash, potato, sweet potato, carrots, cucumbers, broccoli stems, winter squash, beets turnips and radishes.
- Lower fats-Yes we need fat to live but we don’t need as much as we are eating. Fat can clog your liver and impedes its ability to cleanse your body. If you can, avoid any type of fat until lunchtime. (I wait till dinner and on some days I don’t consume any fat-I’m talking nuts, oils and proteins. I simply eat my fruits and vegetables all day).
I could go on and on about foods to avoid and foods to add to your diet and perhaps I will in the blog but for now this is enough to start you on your way to healing your body. Good Luck with your journey to wellness!
May13
Some of you think I’m crazy and I very well may be! If you didn’t think so today’s blog might make you think otherwise. Since the weather has warmed up a bit (depending on the day) I have been taking off my shoes and sitting on my front steps with my feet on the ground (in an effort to ground myself). I heard this somewhere, not sure where but I thought ‘why not give it a try, it can’t hurt. Yesterday I watched a movie about earthing aka grounding and decided I would share that with you. First because earthing is free (unless you purchase some sort of earthing mat or device) and second because it is a simple way to reconnect with the earth. Just a few minutes a day will provide massive benefits. I haven’t done much research on earthing but here is what I have read or heard.
Earthing is the practice of placing bare skin on the earth in order to absorb millions of electrons into the body. The earth is a conductor, as are all living beings. The earth is negatively charged, emitting negative ions and electrons. These negatively charged ions and electrons help detoxify our bodies from free radicals, heavy metals, air pollution, etc. The healing treatment that earthing provides is unparalleled. With our feet on the ground, we begin to flow with the current of the earth, providing us with raised health, higher consciousness, and a feeling of connection and stability. When you are electrically grounded, you feel centered, strong, solid, balanced, less tense, and less stressed. All of these are areas where the modern person feels a lack, a link that is not arbitrary.
We don’t often think about the fact that a build-up of positive ions in the body is where and when disease and illness start to occur. To revert this build-up, exposing our bodies to negative ions from the earth is a free and naturally primitive way to heal and help us reinstate our optimal homeostasis. Some of the health benefits of earthing are:
Calms the nervous system
Improves circulation
Protects us from Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs)
Eases chronic pain and inflammation (this is one of the most significant benefits, and coincidently, inflammation is one of the most common health concerns of our time, leading to many diseases that are prevalent today. The link is uncanny).
Relaxes tense or sore muscles
Helps us recover almost immediately from jet lag
Shortens recovery time from injuries and promotes healing in the body
Balances emotions, reduces stress and anxiety and boosts energy
Improves mental clarity and decision-making abilities
Deepens our sense of connection with nature and all beings
Aligns the energy body – chakras and meridians.
Reconnecting ourselves with the earth is beyond beneficial, and a way for us to realign our physical, mental and spiritual states.
If I experience only some of these benefits I am in! It’s simple and easy so why not take fifteen minutes (or more) out of your day to see if it benefits you. I’m actually earthing right now while I am writing this.
For those of you interested in watching to movie, here’s the link for the website.
May01
Happy 14th Anniversary to the Spa of Essex
This week I decided instead of the Journey to Wellness blog I would take the opportunity to wish the Spa of Essex a Happy Anniversary (I’m not certain if it’s official because we’ve been closed since March 17th, but I figured we are still in business so its official enough!) and give thanks to so many who have contributed along the way.
Fourteen Years Ago today we had our first client! (And I think she was our only client) The Spa team consisted of two estheticians (one of which is still with us today, DeAnne Mauri), two massage therapists and me. Those were the days when we had a lot of extra time on our hands (kind of like now). But on a serious note as of today May 1, 2020 the Spa has almost 30,000 clients and continues to grow (well as soon as we can open for business again).
I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude to all those who have helped make the Spa what it is today. First and foremost a huge thanks to my Mom (in heaven) for believing in me and giving me the chance to open the Spa, my children for often having to be second fiddle to the Spa, Bobby Hofferth and Tommy Mauri aka Spa Hubby for always tending to the never ending Spa Honey Do List, our team members (both past and present) and of course I have saved the best for last…YOU! Yes YOU all of our wonderful, loyal Clients!
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Cheers to another 14 Years! Can’t wait to be back in business!
P.S. Some personal thanks to my team members:
DeAnne ~My Assistant and friend. Thank you for sticking with me through thick and thin every day for 14 years and for making the world a more beautiful place one face at a time!
Nicole ~Thank you for 4+ years of dedication, always willing to lend a helping hand, going above and beyond the call of duty daily.
Brian ~Thank you for 13 years of service and your willingness and helpfulness and always taking out the garbage and recyclables for me.
Charles ~ Thank you for 12+ years of service and your unwavering calmness during times of chaos.
Elaine ~Thank you for 3+ years of service and helping me care for the plants.
Becky ~ Thank you for taking over my front desk duties!
Meg ~ Thank you for the artistic and creative monthly specials boards and for making certain every towel is folded perfectly.
Maura ~ Thank you for your willingness to help whenever needed.
Kara ~Thank you for your bright and cheerful personality and those always perfect red lips!
Both Jen and Kenya are fairly new to the Spa so thanks for joining the TEAM it’s great to have you.
Apr22
Every day you are advised to wash your hands and don’t touch your face. Not today, today I say wash your hands and touch your face! Boy do I miss my facials. We all know nothing is going to compare to a Spa of Essex facial but we don’t have a choice. In an effort to help you keep your skin glowing, firm and supple while you patiently (or not so patiently) wait for your REAL FACIAL, I would like to share with you a few youtube videos that might help.
At Home Facial:
In this video our ONE and ONLY, DeAnne Mauri, provides us with directions to do an at home facial. She is using Rhonda Allison products at home (purchase your at home facial kit here https://bit.ly/3aynKDv ) She also gives you some tips of items you can use from your kitchen.
Face Yoga:
The Uma Show is one of my favorites. Uma Ghosh is a Certified Holistic and Wellness Coach. Her videos cover everything from wellness & beauty to clean eating and fitness. While she has multiple videos for face yoga, this one is my favorite.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBp0dThh2Tg
Face Lifting Massage:
Abigail James, an A-List facialist, wellbeing expert and author, is one of the most well respected skincare and wellbeing experts within the UK. In this video she shares with us an antiaging, face lifting massage.
Apr14
I’m not sure about you, but my emailbox is filled with emails on how to boost your immunity. Everything from what foods to eat, what supplements to take, recipes for immunity boosting concoctions, Zinc Shock Therapy, Vitamin C Shock Therapy, Intermittent fasting, the Wim Hof method and more.
Today I thought I would share with you the Wim Hof Method. Why? Because it’s new to me so I am enthusiastic about it and because it is FREE!!! All you need is 15 Minutes a day to do the breathing exercise. Unless you’re me! I’m an all or nothing kind of girl. After downloading the Wim Hof Method App I proceeded to do the breathing exercise daily plus the exercises-forward bending, Reverse Balance, headstand, push-ups and the cold shower. Yup, I said the COLD SHOWER! While the cold shower may sound like torture, I assure you it is!!!! But so worth it. It is so invigorating, it clears your mind and gives you a crazy amount of energy. (You will find a video below with some tips on taking cold showers. I start with a warm shower and slowly reduce to the temp while breathing.)
So who is Wim Hof?
Wim Hof, also known as The Iceman, is a Dutch extreme athlete noted for his ability to withstand freezing temperatures. He has set Guinness world records for swimming under ice and prolonged full-body contact with ice, and still holds the record for a barefoot half-marathon on ice and snow.
What is the Wim Hof Method?
The Wim Hof method is a breathing technique that allows you to control the autonomous systems of the body. Perhaps the most earthshaking effect of the Wim Hof Method is the ability to consciously control the immune system to fight off diseases. Our immune system plays a significant role in almost all devastating diseases plaguing the modern world, and finding a way to improve it can help us discover new avenues for medicine.
Give it a try! It can’t hurt (well maybe a little if you are taking a cold shower, brrr!) But if it helps to boost your immunity it’s worth it.
Here is a video for you to use. There are more but this one is for the beginner. Remember, you can also download the app for free. The app contains everything you need to get started and also keeps track for you.
Here is the video of some tips for taking cold showers if you’re brave enough:
Apr07
For all those in dire need of a massage. Here are a couple youtube videos recommended by “your awesome massage therapists”.
In this particular video Dr. Jo demonstrates and explains stretches for every area of the body. Her channel also has videos for specific issue areas as well. I may share other videos in other blogs
For those of you with Lower Back Pain:
Feb07
ACNE • ANTI-AGING • PAIN
What is Light Therapy?
Light Emitting Diode (LED) phototherapy is the application of light energy to tissue to obtain therapeutic benefits. The energy is used to improve cellular performance. Phototherapy is known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties and has a variety of applications across many medical fields. Research has shown that phototherapy can: increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, decrease wrinkles, decrease inflammation, improve skin tone and wrinkles, texture and clarity, ease muscle and joint pain, stiffness, spasm and arthritis and kill acne bacteria, and much more.
How Does Light Energy work?
Specific wavelengths of light energy, when properly absorbed, up-regulates compromised cells. The light (photons) energy is absorbed by photoacceptors in the mitochondria and used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP). The ATP produced then stimulates various metabolic processes which can result in the repair and regeneration of cell and tissue components. In an article, “Therapeutic Light” – by Chukuku S. Enwemeka, PT, PhD, FACSM, he wrote “other reported mechanisms of light-induced beneficial effects include modulation of prostaglandin levels, alteration of somatosensory evoked potential and nerve conduction velocity, and hyperemia of treated tissues. The resultant clinical benefits include pain relief in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, ankle sprain, and temporomandibular joint dysfunction, shoulder and neck pain, arthritis, and post-herpetic neuralgia, as well as tissue repair in cases of diabetic ulcer, venous ulcer, mouth ulcer, fractures, tendon rupture, ligamentous, tear, torn cartilage, and nerve injury.”
What is Celluma?
Celluma is unique and quite unlike any other low-level light therapy device available today. Based on NASA research, Celluma delivers blue, red and near-infrared light energy simultaneously to safely treat a wide variety of conditions. Each wavelength is absorbed by different molecules that act as a signaling mechanism for different cellular processes. For example, some reduce inflammation and some kill bacteria, while others enhance localized circulation.
Ask Us How Celluma May Benefit You & Your Family
Sep12
It’s hard to believe but it’s already time to start thinking about the fall season ahead of us. Even though fall doesn’t officially start till the 21st, most of us use Labor Day as the switch of seasons. Time to put away the bathing suits and maxi dresses and bring on the jeans and boots. Along with the weather change, post summer is the best time to start getting your skin back in good shape. It’s a great time to lighten age spots, soften rough skin and reverse wear and tear that happens during the warmer weather. Luckily, with today’s advances in skin care, these problems are much easier to address and with less disruption to your life.
The Hydrafacial is by far the most exciting treatment option that I have ever seen. This treatment allows important ingredients to penetrate the skin where they will do the most good. In the past clients had to visit a doctor in order to achieve these results and then had to endure a week of redness and peeling post treatment. The Hydrafacial has no side effects, only soft, healthy, glowing skin. During the treatment, the skin is exfoliated and smoothed, so dull, dry and rough skin that is interfering with your hydration level is safely removed. This then allows for deeper penetration of antioxidants and vitamins that have been depleted by inflammation and UV exposure. Once you introduce Vitamin C at this level you will begin to heal parched skin and even lighten some of the pigmentation that the sun left behind.
If you are prone to acne, the summer can be a double edged sword. As an Esthetician, I tell my clients to be sure to wear sunscreen every day but with the addition of the heat and humidity of the warmer months come an increase in breakouts and clogged pores. Once again the Hydrafacial uses its Vortex Fusion technology to eliminate clogged pores and its Red and Blue LED light to decrease inflammation and reduce acne causing bacteria.
Finally, the end of summer is a great time to schedule your dermatology appointment. No matter how well you take care of your skin it is always important to get regular skin checks so a doctor can see if there are any areas of concern before they become something much worse.
Fall is the perfect time to visit your Esthetician to get back on track with your skin care goals. Products usually need to be adjusted as the weather changes so take the opportunity to be sure your home care regime doesn’t need tweaking. And take advantage of all of the new treatments options such as the Hydrafacial…….you won’t be disappointed.
You’re Invited to an Exclusive Event to Experience HydraFacial
The Spa of Essex
October 5th, 2017 4:00 PM- 7:00 PM
63 South Main Street
Essex, CT 06426
RSVP (860) 767-7796
$50 reservation fee guarantees your appointment.
3 steps.
30 minutes.
The best skin of your life.
HydraFacial delivers instant and long-lasting results that you can see and feel.
Jun30
The HydraFacial is becoming one of the most popular treatments at the Spa. It not only offers immediate results with just one treatment, but also can provide long-term benefits and results when coupled with routine experiences.
Take a look at one of the Spa’s clients who is extremely satisfied with the results of the HydraFacial treatment. She has chosen to experience the HydraFacial as a series of 6 treatments. This treatment is for all ages and all skin types – great for anti-aging as well as acne prone skin.
First treatment of a series of 6 taken before and after treatment
The results driven HydraFacial treatment delivers immediate and long-term skin health benefits that you can see and feel. Using a new technology called Vortex Fusion, potent ingredients are pushed deeper down into the skin while the vacuum aspect allows for pain free extractions. Her concerns were loss of elasticity, dryness, lines and wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. HydraFacial works to not only detoxify skin clearing away daily wear and tear, but also to replenish the skin with much-needed antioxidants to revitalize and protect.
Second treatment of a series of 6 taken before and after treatment
As you can see, there is a visible improvement immediately and continues to improve after each treatment. The un-retouched photos demonstrate the HydraFacial’s ability to dramatically improve hydration while helping to eliminate the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, oil & congestion and even creases in the nasolabial folds.
Third and Fourth treatment of a series of 6 taken after treatment
Like the results you see? Try it out yourself. This month, the Spa is offering special pricing for the basic HydraFacial at $175+ (Reg. $190+). Add on a serum booster for an additional $50.
Interested but want more information on this incredible non-invasive treatment that utilizes award-winning, patented technology to detoxify, rejuvenate and protect your skin? Click Here
* Client pictured has received the first 4 treatments in a series of 6. Photos shown were taken at each treatment, 2 weeks apart.
Apr26
For many, a day at the spa is just that – an escape from the daily routine, a place to celebrate a special occasion or the go-to place for relaxation. For Joyce Cosenza, Owner/Director of the Spa of Essex, her frequent spa visits left her always wanting more. After reading an article about the up and coming spa trend, Joyce decided to pursue her dream of opening a spa that would give clients exactly what they were looking for. The long and sometimes frustrating job of financing and construction coupled with balancing a full time job and three children did not discourage Joyce from following through with her dream. On May 1, 2006, set on the picturesque landscape of South Main Street, The Spa of Essex opened its doors for the first time.
Being a business that caters to their clientele, we had to get the word out and encourage locals and visitors to experience what we had to offer. A new business is somewhat of a curiosity but we were determined to be the place clients would turn to for top-notch treatments and absolute relaxation. What was once a dream soon became reality when the phone began ringing and clients began coming through the door.
As a therapist, it is my goal to do everything I can so you leave the spa completely satisfied. Every day I go through the online reviews and listen to client feedback so the Spa can continue to create the perfect environment for you to escape to. There are many places you can choose from for your spa needs and the Spa of Essex is honored that you choose us. Many clients have been coming to us from the beginning. Clients become part of our lives and we thank you for letting us be a part of yours.
We have experienced graduations, weddings, babies, illness and unfortunately loss with you. As a team we have also gone through the same within the Spa walls. The power of touch, whether giving or receiving, is very healing. I have heard clients say that when you walk into the Spa’s front door it’s like taking a deep breath and all your troubles leave you. And let’s not forget that relaxation room. I have yet to discover anything like it. Joyce and I agreed from the start that we wouldn’t be a stuffy spa but one that you could completely feel comfortable in.
Because YOU have helped us reach the 10-year mark, we would like to dedicate the month of May to you. You’re invited to celebrate yourself this month at the spa and as a thank you; we are offering 10% off Products, Facials and Massage Treatments on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in May (Discount excludes Gift Cards and cannot be combined with any other discounts). Thank you for sharing in this special anniversary. Call (860) 767-7796 to reserve your appointment!
May28