To celebrate World Relaxation Day (and commiserate the complete lack of relaxation in most of our lives), I called in bestie and massage miracle worker Jessie, Founder of The Calmm to give us a hand (see what I did there?!)
Jessie takes us through a calming face massage that you can do from the comfort of your own couch, on friends (if you have any) and if not, yourself!
A daily face massage routine is the key to a youthful glowing complexion – not to mention it’s relaxing AF! (Take note my facials.)
Was this simply an excuse to get a free massage? Probably! All I know is that I saw my opportunity and I took it. Can you blame me? (Not much has changed since initiating back tickle trains in primary school – I am a massage opportunist.)
Now it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy the massage!
Why face massage?
A daily face massage routine is the key to to softening fine lines and wrinkles, lift drooping skin, increase firmness and tone in the face, as well as support circulation to stimulate bright and glowing complexion.
The lymphatic system is the sewerage system of the body, holding approximately 12-15L of lymphatic fluid. Compare this to the 5L of blood we hold and you can see it must have a big role to play in maintaining our health. With approximately 200 lymph nodes in the neck and face, a daily routine can help to support the lymphatic system and reduce build of of toxins in the face.
What does our lymphatic system do?
Our lymphatic system cleanses our tissues, protecting our bodies from illness-causing invaders, absorbing digestive tract fats and removing cellular waste. It’s our immune system, our first line of defence, our internal support. Without it, we would have toxic overload, and it wouldn’t be long before disease set in. Within the face, toxic overload can present in the form of rashes, dermatitis, rosacea, acne, wrinkles and a dull complexion. All the reasons to massage your face regularly!
Preparation
One: Get comfy in your favourite pjs or robe (we are wearing Curio Practice robes for optimum style and comfort.)
A hot water bottle or heat pack wouldn’t go astray! We love the new Shearling hot water bottle covers by The Calmm.
Two: Hair Back
Three: Hydrate (we chose wine but water or tea will do)
What you need
1. A face
2. Hands
3. Face oil (we use Marula by Foile)
4. Relaxing tunes
Step by Step guide
Step 1: Activate lymph nodes just above the collarbone using a ‘J’ like motion. An alternative is to pump with 3 fingers, in the depression above the collarbone for a duration of 30 seconds
Step 2: Lightly sweep from the ear down to the collarbone to promote drainage of lymph fluid from the neck and face – repeat 6-10 times
Step 3: Sweep from the chin back to the ears – repeat 6-10 times
Step 4: Create a ‘V’ shape with your index and middle finger knuckles, place them either side of your jaw line and pull out towards your ears
Step 5: Place the knuckle of your index finger in the corner, where your nostril meets your nasolabial fold, apply pressure and sweep below your cheek bone, out to your ear lobes.
Step 6: Sweep hands over the forehead to warm up the tissue – repeat 6-10 times
Step 7: Apply firm pressure with your index and middle finger to the edge of the frown line. Push with one hand and pull with the other to smooth over any stagnant frown-line muscles
Step 8: Sweep over whole face, down the neck and pump above the collarbone – repeat 6 times
That’s it!
Watch the full video tutorial here
