Indian Head Massage – The Power of Touch!

Indian women originally developed Indian Head Massage as part of their grooming routine, using a wide selection of seasonal oils (almond, mustard, sesame and coconut).  Routines were, and still are, passed on from mother to daughter, teaching that sharing massage with family members shows love and respect. 

Not only this but the Indian Head massage is prevalent in barber shops across India and Asia, with techniques being passed from barber to barber’s son whilst salons in the western world are also increasingly introducing the massage on their treatment menus.  For not only is it an enjoyable and beneficial treatment for the client but it also greatly improves the growth and condition of the hair and scalp – overall the client's salon/barber experience is enriched whilst the stylist’s work enjoyment improves (by adding skills) and the salon’s revenue is able to increase due to a wider treatment menu. 

Not just applicable to hair salons, this is a fantastic skill for any therapist within the beauty and massage industry to have in their repertoire!  But what is an Indian Head massage and why is it such a popular treatment?

The Indian Head massage is a form of Ayurvedic massage.  Ayurveda (meaning “the complete knowledge for long life”), consists of the words ãyus, (i.e., “longevity”) and andveda, (meaning “related to knowledge” or “science”).  It is the oldest recorded Indian healing system, and works on the understanding that to be well physically you have to be well spiritually and mentally/emotionally. Early Ayurvedic texts date back 4000 years and features massage and the holistic approach that health results from harmony in one-self. The Ayurvedic view is that health is maintained by 3 subtle life giving forces or doshas:

·         Vata:  a combination of Air and Ether (the air/atmosphere/upper air/the heavens). It is responsible for all movements of the mind, body and senses, and the process of elimination. The unique characteristic of Vata is dryness.

·         Pitta: is a combination of Fire and Water. It is responsible for heat, energy, metabolism and digestive functions of the body. The unique characteristic of Pitta is heat.

·          Kapha: is a combination of Earth and Water. It is responsible for physical stability, proper body structure and fluid balance. The unique characteristic of Kapha is heaviness.

The underlying principle of Ayurveda is maintaining balance in the body and a healthy balance of doshas, with Ayurvedic customs recommending both men and women should have a weekly Indian Head massage in order to promote soft skin, shiny hair and maintain emotional and physical health via balancing of our chakras.  This is specifically true of our higher chakras where most people carry the most amount of emotional stress. Each Chakra connects with a different part of the body and endocrine system. 

Balancing of 'chakras' means balancing the flow of energy through the body of which an imbalance can result in a feeling of being unsettled and of feeling of being unwell, i.e., the physical, emotional and mental body are not working in harmony with each other.

Using a range of stimulating and vigorous massage techniques this invigorating massage is performed with the client sitting in a chair, as opposed to lying down, since the therapist will have easier access to the shoulders, upper arms, neck, scalp and face - muscles/areas we hold the most tension and stress.  Although it can be carried out using beneficial oils, it can also be performed with the client fully dressed making it suitable to perform anywhere, whilst it is an ideal massage to give to people in wheelchairs, people who don’t want to take their clothes off and/or pregnant women.

This fantastic treatment provides a number of benefits to the client, such as:

·         Relieving tensions that result in headaches, neck and back pain

·         Stimulating lymphatic drainage and therefore detoxing the body

·         Boosting the immune system

·         Improving circulation, consequently increasing energy levels.

·         Increasing clarity and increasing concentration.

·         Calming the respiratory system and therefore soothing asthma symptoms.

·         Adding muscle tone.

·         Relieving sinusitis symptoms.

·         Improving circulation of cerebral spinal fluid.

·         Relieving sleeplessness, restlessness and insomnia.

·         Growth and condition of scalp.

Furthermore this massage can also improve general mental health by:

·         Relieving symptoms of depression/anxiety

·         Providing stress relief and encouraging relaxation

·         Increase concentration and memory levels

·         Promoting feelings of peace, calm and wellbeing.

Consequently, EpP – Algarve Beauty School will be holding a 12 week Indian Head massage course (starting 24^th Feb) for complete beginners who will learn about the body’s systems and effects the Indian Head massage techniques have.  This course also teaches about the chakras, auras and also includes ear candling (also known as thermo-auricular therapy). 

Another version of this course is also available to more experienced massage therapists as a 1.5 day workshop (on 5^th and 26^th Feb) – ideal for therapists looking to increase their skills and learn new techniques - case studies will need to be provided. 

For more information on these, please contact the school on tel: 282762606 or email Naomi at naomi@algarvebeautyschool.co.uk

New Year, New Inspirations!

At Estetica para Profissionais (EpP), we have set ourselves a New Year’s resolution – to bring to you some of the most inspirational people within the beauty industry from here in the Algarve as well as further afield.

This resolution came about when Naomi, Director of EpP - the Algarve Beauty School, observed “the classic thing I hear many people doing is comparing themselves negatively to other people…by all means look at other people but look for inspiration. Find traits you like and enjoy and be inspired.” 

As such once every month, the Algarve Beauty Blog will be questioning key people we believe to be inspirational, kicking off with Sarah Bruton, owner of Innovation Health & Beauty in Ferragudo and employed by EpP, Algarve Beauty School as the ONLY Jessica Sales Representative within Portugal:

Name:  Sarah Bruton

What qualification(s) do you have:   ITEC Aesthetics, ITEC Physiatrics

Where did you study?   East Berkshire College, Berkshire

What did you most enjoy about studying and what did you find most challenging?

I enjoyed the theory side of learning my profession, especially biology  -  I never realised how interesting the human body was until I started my Beauty Therapy course.  I found Latin challenging as spelling mistakes were not accepted! Also the acceptance of the human body -  you no longer look at a person as a whole picture, you focus on the parts you are working on.  It’s no longer a whole face it’s a beautifully natural shaped eyebrow.  You work on enhancing the best features someone has.

What is your current job role and where do you work?

I have my own Beauty Therapy business in Portugal [Innovation Health & Beauty] - I have a small salon and also work on a mobile basis as well.   I also am a sales representative for a Professional Nail Products range [Jessica Nails].  

What do you find rewarding about your current job and what do you find challenging about it?

I find the fact that I make people feel good about themselves very rewarding.  People come to you if they have a problem with their skin, weight, nails or are in need of relaxation. I can help with all of these things with either a treatment or even just by recommending things that they can use to correct their problem.

Dealing with the public can always be challenging however given that the beauty field is doing something that makes people feel good about themselves and makes them happy, it is far less challenging than in other sectors.

      What are your next steps in your career development and where would you like to see yourself in the future?

I enjoy my current profession it can be challenging on my body as I have been doing it for around 16 years now but I enjoy the fact I constantly meet new people and also see others on a regular basis.

I enjoy the Sale Representative job [for Jessica Nails] which I do alongside, and in conjunction with, my business I find it constantly challenging.

What do you think makes a good beauty therapist?

To listen, to be knowledgeable, to make people feel comfortable in your working environment and know you are only as good as your last client.

What do you think makes a good Spa or Salon?

Ambiance, attention to detail, warmth and a calm atmosphere  are key.

What is your favourite product range?

Elimis

What is your favourite treatment to have and give?

I have each treatment depending on how I feel and as to what will make me happy. With regards to giving treatments, I do not have a favourite as I enjoy variety in my working week.

 Beauty Therapy is one of the happiest sectors to work in according to City and Guilds, would you agree?

Definitely!!!  I love it!

Please tell us about someone who has inspired you and why? – can be in the industry or not.

My mum! She never gives up, always strives to be better and most importantly always listens to me when necessary and never pushes her opinion on to me BUT always tries to help me whenever she can.

We hope you have enjoyed reading what we believe makes Sarah and inspirational figure within the beauty industry.  If you would like to visit Sarah's salon, her salon is Innovation Health & Beauty tel:  282 353 132/Mob: 965638671.  And if you would like to contact Sarah with regards to the Jessica Nails range now available to purchase within Portugal, please email her on jessicanailsportugal@gmail.com or contact the Algarve Beauty School directly where 

Naomi will also be happy to help.  Telephone 00351 282762606 or visit Estetica para Profissionais, 

Rua Salgueiro Maia 29A, 8600-620, Lagos.

Merry Christmas & a VERY Happy and Beautiful 2014!!!
Thank you all for reading the Algarve Beauty Blog - We look forward to bringing you more blog posts in the new year.

All I want for Christmas.....is a Beauty Promotion!

At the time of year clients are flocking to have all things health and beauty carried out for whatever festive shin-digs they have coming up.  Not only this, when visiting salons it is an opportunity to purchase some of the beautiful Christmas beauty gifts and, for salons, the ideal time to boost retail sales.  It is therefore so important that salons ensure stock and/or vouchers sold are chosen and displayed in a way to make them sought after and on as many Christmas wish lists as possible.  Efforts therefore include window displays, shelf displays and even toilet displays, positioning the Christmas stock as attractively and prominent as possible.  In addition to this, staff can make personalised recommendations when carrying out treatments ensuring particular products and gift sets are front of mind for the client when thinking about their Christmas wish lists and/or shopping.

We asked a number of salons around the Algarve what they are doing throughout December to maximise treatment as well as retail profit over this busy Christmas period?

Firstly, of course, we have ourselves.  Estetica para Professionais – Algarve Beauty School, can provide lovely gifts to the Beauty Professional.  This could be one of our courses, workshops and/or one of the number of exclusive brands (e.g., Crybaby, ilash, Jessica, Hive Beauty range) on sale at our school in Lagos (available to purchase on-line – http://shop.algarvebeautyschool.co.uk).  If you wish to train as a City & Guilds qualified therapist or top-up your skills, keeping up-to-date with modern treatments for your treatment menu, put vouchers on your Santa Christmas list.  We offer vouchers for monetary or indeed for specific courses.  Call: 00351 282762606 Mobile: 00351 913211797 for details.

The Hair & Beauty Studio at Vila Sol in Vilamoura are displaying a selection of Elemis gift boxes and vouchers making gorgeous gifts.  In addition to this they are running a special winter promotion of a ‘Top to Toe treatment which includes a facial, massage, manicure and pedicure for EUR 99’ and is valid until Febuary 28^th’.  The Hair and Beauty Studio is at, Loja 18, Vila Sol Shopping, Vilamoura, telephone 289 098 680.

Bodyworx Beauty & Fitness are encouraging clients to 'make a healthy choice' for 2014 and to spoil your loved ones with a Bodyworx gift voucher.  They also direct people to their Facebook page for any other up and coming Christmas offers.   Bodyworx salon is at Balaia Plaza Hotel Apartments, St Eulalia, Albufeira.  Call Debbie today and wake up to a new you on 91674550

Innovation Health and Beauty are offering 10% off luxury manicure and pedicure treatments this winter using heated mitts and booties, leaving you feeling toastie warm and relaxed whilst choosing your favourite winter colour from thier vast Jessica nail varnish range! 

And finally Chantal’s Hair & Beauty have some marvellous Christmas gift sets on display and are doing some additional great deals on their product range!  For example should the client buy a conditioner and treatment, they will be given a shampoo of choice completely free as a Christmas present!  Or 500ml shampoos, conditioners and masks for the price of a 250ml bottles.  Additionally, if you book your appointment before the 7th of December for the week running up to Christmas you'll receive a 10% discount!!

Chantal’s Hair & Beauty and Innovation Health & Beauty are collaborative and therefore both at the same address of Edificio Vasco Da Gama, Rua Vasco Da Gama No 37, 8400 253 Ferragudo, Lagoa, tel:  282 353 132

We hope you all have a great December business-wise and ensure to use the month to maximise retail sales.  Most importantly Merry Christmas!!

iLash Extensions – the new wax?

Just in time to offer your clients, friends and/or family beautiful lashes for their Christmas and New Year celebrations, Estética para Profissionais  will be holding a one day workshop on Monday 16^th December to learn how to become an ilash Stylist, with 'ilash designer'. We teach the latest tricks and techniques, including layering, to make lash application easier and faster.

As Cosmopolitan (U.S.A) magazine reviewed, eyelash extensions are addictive – “once you start getting them, you can’t stop!”*.  Consequently this treatment is a growing market, with the eyelash extension poised to become as popular as other high-maintenance treatments such as manicures, pedicures and waxing!   As a result the eyelash extension industry is becoming incredibly profitable and therefore a must-have on any beauty treatment menu.

One of Estética para Profissionais’ preferred brands is ‘ilash designer’.  As one of the first companies to introduce eyelash extensions to the UK, iLash designer applies individual false lashes to the natural eyelashes, creating the clients desired look from natural to glamorous.  The outcome? Beautifully framed eyes that appear bigger, wider and brighter.

Naomi, director of the beauty school in Lagos says "I'm very excited by our product range, these eyelash extension products are the best I have worked with, they are made in Europe, and the glue doesn't even think about going hard in the bottle like other brands! The products last and last!"

At the workshop on Monday 16^th December, Naomi will therefore pass on knowledge and experience of iLash designer application techniques to ensure longer lasting and durable lash extensions for up to three weeks.

If you would like to enquire or book your place on the workshop, please contact Naomi on 913211797 or naomi@algarvebeautyschool.co.uk. 

*As reported in http://www.cosmopolitan.com/hairstyles-beauty/eyelash-extension-craze

Visit to Madrugada Advice Centre

Estética para Profissionais are thrilled to be visiting the new Madrugada Advice Centre on the 10^th December.

The charity’s new Centre in Praia da Luz has been created to offer support to anyone who is affected by a life limiting illness such as cancer. This service is available to patients from diagnosis, those undergoing treatment, to post-treatment, remission, recurrence, end of life or in bereavement.  

Many of us know through experience that those who love and look after someone with serious illness can feel just as frightened, vulnerable and uncertain; the Centre will also offer support to family members and carers who may be deeply affected and struggling in their own way. 

The Centre will promote well-being by helping people learn vital skills that enable them to regain control, reduce isolation and enhance quality of life. Over the course of the next year Madrugada will be offering a variety of services including: counselling, complementary therapies, professionally-led support groups, stress management, nutritional advice, exercise and relaxation classes, a range of creative activities and courses and educational workshops for people living with, through and after serious illness.

On the 10th December, students from Algarve Beauty School, Estética para Profissionais, will be treating the Madrugada visitors with nail shapes and polishes, and their family members/carers with Indian head massages and back massages, combining a learning experience for students with a Christmas treat at this well deserved charity. Estética para Profissionais intend to visit the Madrugada Adivce Centre on a continuing basis.

Estética para Profissionais is a very proud supporter of this fantastic charity and wish them all the very best of luck with the centre.

For further imformation about the Madrugada charity and their Advice Centre visit their website on http://www.madrugada-portugal.com

Is Ayurvedic Massage for you?

An Ayurvedic Massage course is starting in November at the Algarve Beauty School....we've all heard the name but what is it all about?

Ayurveda is an ancient lifestyle practice which aims to create harmony within the body. Practised widely in India, it is often suggested that Ayurveda originated more than 400 years ago, making it one of the oldest systems of wellbeing to man. It is based on the philosophy of health and lifestyle that treats the whole person and not just the symptoms. 

It is recognized as one of the most complete and rejuvenating traditions developed and practiced in India. It was and still is used by families as regular practice, by medicine as a diagnosis, curative and preventive method and by religion as a process of purifying the body. Now considered one of the leading forms of holistic medicine available in the West, Ayurveda addresses all factors that influence our quality of life.

Although Ayurveda can be used to alleviate various conditions, it is founded on the principle of preventing disorders in the long term rather than waiting for problems to manifest themselves. Thus it is the ideal way for healthy individuals to maintain good health and general well being.

With a few small changes to a person's daily life, it is possible to live the Ayurvedic way and reap the benefits. Ayurveda is certainly not intended to replace modern medicine, but rather to give people the tools to treat their body according to its needs, leading to emotional and mental well being and good health.

The massage techniques used include tapping, kneading and squeezing as well as the more traditional massage strokes you would expect. The style and flow of the massage is determined by who you are, and what your body needs for balance and wellbeing at the time.

Now considered one of the leading forms of holistic medicine available in the West, Ayurveda addresses all factors that influence our quality of life. - See more at: http://www.ayurveda-retreat.co.uk/about/about-ayurveda/what-is-ayurveda#sthash.tgTdLNKT.dpuf

Now considered one of the leading forms of holistic medicine available in the West, Ayurveda addresses all factors that influence our quality of life. - See more at: http://www.ayurveda-retreat.co.uk/about/about-ayurveda/what-is-ayurveda#sthash.tgTdLNKT.dpuf

Now considered one of the leading forms of holistic medicine available in the West, Ayurveda addresses all factors that influence our quality of life. - See more at: http://www.ayurveda-retreat.co.uk/about/about-ayurveda/what-is-ayurveda#sthash.tgTdLNKT.dpuf

 

So if you are looking for a holistic treatment that helps to rebalance the body and mind, whether you wish to practise professionally or just help a partner, friend, relative or yourself then Ayurvedic Massage could be right for you.

Contact Naomi on 913211797 or naomi@algarvebeautyschool.co.uk or Sophia on 966192091 if you wish to enquire about the course or find out more about the technique to decide if it is for you. The comprehensive course is running on Fridays from 8th November.