Few escape occasional episodes of the waistband suddenly feeling way too tight but, for some, bloating is a problem that blights their lives as well as determining their wardrobe!

 

 

Following a gastronomic ‘blow out’ none would be surprised to find their tummy feels fit to burst, bloated and uncomfortable.  You may be aware of certain foods that have this effect and perhaps also create excessive flatulence, with beans, brussel sprouts, onions, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower being major culprits.  Talking while eating – thus swallowing air – can produce similar effects.  Sometimes, however, there may be underlying problems causing bloating and you may need to turn detective to pin those down!

1. Self Help

Bloating can be triggered by an imbalance of bacteria in the gut. Using antibiotics can disturb the balance, as can a gastrointestinal upset, and these effects can linger.  Using probiotics can help restore the balance and the simplest thing to try is live (probiotic) yogurt.  Allow 3 weeks eating yogurt, a minimum of 3 servings a week, should be a good length of time to see whether symptoms improve.  If you find yogurt increases bloating then this could be a symptom of lactose intolerance, where lack of an enzyme in the body makes it difficult to digest the sugars in milk and dairy.  Taking lactase supplements could help.

2. Over The Counter

One of the oldest and most effective self-help remedies is peppermint oil, which may work for some people.  It relaxes muscles that trap painful digestive gas.  In some trails it has proved more effective than prescribed antispasmodics.  Take enteric-coated capsules to ensure it isn’t broken down in the stomach but reaches the intestines.  Do not take if you have hiatus hernia or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) where stomach acids travel back up the oesophagus.  It can overly relax the sphincter separating the oesophagus from the stomach and could make heartburn worse.

3. See Your Doctor

If you observe your bloating is persistent rather than coming and going, do make an appointment to see your doctor as it could be the sign of an underlying medical problem, which would require further investigation.  It is important that you also seek swift help if your bloating is accompanied by rectal bleeding, or if you notice you have had a sudden change in bowl habits and that change has lasted longer than 3 weeks.  Of course, your GP can also help to pinpoint any less serious causes, which may result in bloating.  He or she will be able to suggest ways to help you manage your discomfort.

Thank you for reading, Wendy x

Source: Gill Cox (Better Health Magazine)

September’s Offer

6 foods for… great skin

 

 

Skin is not only crucial to how we look on the outside, it’s also important to our insides too, as the first line of defence against damage to inner organs and tissue. You can spend a fortune on creams and masks, but if you still find your skin looks tired, uneven or prematurely aged, you might need to make changes elsewhere.  Certain foods provide your skin cells with the nutrients they need to stay healthy, so give your diet an overhaul and eat your way to fresher-looking skin with these five delicious foods.

Avocado: Rich in vitamins, avocado is just as good as a moisturiser, whether you eat it or use it as a paste on your skin. The vitamin B speeds up the metabolism and helps maintain a healthy skin tone. To get an extra dose of antioxidants combine avocado with carotenoid-rich food like tomato or carrot.

Blueberries: Considered by some to be the highest source of antioxidants, blueberries are a delicious way to fight ‘free radicals’ – damaged cells that can speed up the ageing process. The vibrant colour of blueberries is a result of the compounds called anthocyanins, which act as powerful antioxidants, helping to shield the skin. Eat a handful as a snack or add to cereal or yoghurt.

Yoghurt: High in zinc, yoghurt acts as a natural collagen booster, so no need for any scary injections. Vitamin A, also found in yoghurt, helps to keep skin strong and aids the development of new skin cells. In fact, just one cup a day offers around 40% of our daily vitamin A need. Mix with berries and honey for a nourishing, tasty treat.

Carrots: Carrots are not only good for your eyesight, but as they’re high in beta carotene, a powerful antioxidant, they’re also great for the skin. Beta Carotene helps the body fighting disease and stops the skin from becoming dry and rough. If acne’s a problem for you, the vitamin A in carrots can help by preventing the over production of cells in the skin’s outer layer. To get the best out of carrots, eat them raw.

Flax seeds: This super-food has a high dose of Omega 3, and is great for erasing spots, decreasing lines and healing other skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Another chemical in the seeds, lignans, acts as an antioxidant and reduces skin inflammation. Try adding flax seeds to your baking or sprinkle over cereal.

Beetroot: Beetroot juice has great rejuvenating benefits, by drinking 500ml a day research has shown that it lowers resting heartbeat and raises stamina levels.  Studies show you can then exercise for up to 16% longer before getting tired.

This has real implications for anyone trying to reach youthful fitness levels: it means you can do more exercise, get fitter more quickly, and stay fit more easily.  Fitness has an important effect on attitude and mood, making you feel younger, less stressed, with more energy and enthusiasm for life.

Thank you for reading.

Wendy x

Source: Spa secrets

Words: Mayana McDermott, Wendy O’Hare

July Offer – Free Caudalie Di-Vine Back Treatment

SPECIAL OFFER FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE

  Dare to Bare!

Dare to Bare!

Slink into summer, with Wendy O’Hare Skin Care.

A full 60 minutes of skin softening body buffing and moisture drenching.  We banish dry skin with the unique blends of Himalayan Pink Salt and Epson Salt infused with deeply relaxing essential oils.  We paint you with warm, skin drenching Organic Jojoba Oils blended with the same essential oils to layer the effect, and then we buff every last drop of oil deep into your skin for long lasting, skin perfection….

So if you’re thinking Beach Babe or aiming for Poolside Perfection…. then Dare to Bare!

Regular Price £60

OFFER Price £45.00

Offer ends 29-06-13

 

 

Are your feet Flip Flop Friendly?

 

Due to popular demand (and now that the sun has arrived).  For a second month you can give your feet a treat – it’s time to re- inject some spring and life into your feet.  Did you know that the soles of your feet have thousands of elastic & sensory receptors, that if not used properly can affect the way your walk and your alignment – so start exfoliating your feet and massage your pressure points. You’ll be surprised how this can energise you!

We know the weather hasn’t been it’s best, but we also know that looking after your feet cannot wait for the weather!

Book a Luxury Spa Pedicure and receive a 25% discount.

Pay only the price of a Classic – £27.00

(offer ends 31st May)

Treatment description:

No wonder the ocean is so calming! Spa Pedicure contains a variety of relaxing natural elements from the ocean. Your feet will be exfoliated, moisturised and massaged.

Nails and cuticles tidied and dry skin gently removed. Nails are polished to complete this luxurious treatment. (Remember your sandals for afterwards!)

Call now on 01789 299988 or click here to book this amazing treatment.

Thank you for reading!

 

Wendy x

 

 

Jowel Lift – Firm and Tone the Jawline!

The CACI Jowl Lift Facial is the newest CACI treatment to hit the salon! Developed to specifically target muscle laxity around the jawline!

Using a Quad Probe designed to double the lifting action of the CACI treatment system, it enhances the results and reduces treatment times.

Available as one off or as a course of treatments.

For more information, please call us or pop in to the salon.

COMING SOON!

Tel: 01789 299988

 

 

This short video shows the amazing eyecurl heated eyelash curler being used by professional make-up artist Mariann Elias on House MD (season 8).

If you’ve never tried eyecrul before, it’s fabulous for curling your lashes on a daily basis, or if your popping out after work… Portable and reliable it fits into your make-up bag for all occasions!

There’s not crimping, pulling or possibility of losing any eyelashes, it’ s worked fabulously for me over the past 10 years and I know it will work great for you too!

Available from our website by following this LINK or by popping into the salon!

We have this great product available in Red, Pink and Black.

Thanks for reading.

Wendy x

 

The Benefits:

The benefits of massage are rewarding for both your body and mind. Massage improves health by acting directly on our bodies muscular, nervous, circulatory and immune systems. Massage can improve physical and mental performance, aid recovery, prevent and eliminate injuries, soothe the mind and even enhance metabolism and circulation!

Massage also reduces overall stress – In our fast-paced society it is easy to get overwhelmed with the multiple roles each person plays and just about everyone who you talk to nowadays will complain about being “stressed out.”  Busy lifestyles can lead to unhealthy amounts of stress and anxiety, altering our moods, our outlook and often our productivity. By lowering the unhealthy stress, we function better in our busy lifestyles and improve on our physical and mental well-being. Massage therapy is an effective and enjoyable way to reduce stress. It can also help with insomnia and depression.

Massage is not a cure for any serious illness but it can be extremely beneficial in providing welcome relief from the symptoms of many ailments.

But you don’t need to have an ailment or be in discomfort or pain to benefit from a massage. Many people go for a regular massage because they find it helps them feel better, mentally and physically. They feel more relaxed, with more energy and are better able to manage the issues that life throws at them.

 

How do I decide which is the best type of massage for me?

Different types of massage and their benefits: