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Melanoma and Me...
My Melanoma Experience
I have been on quite a journey, more like a roller coaster. If only one person reads this and takes action to investigate one's own skin, then I have helped.
BACKGROUND:
I am a life-long student of health, well-being, proactive care of body, mind, and soul, author of "GROWING YOUNGER GRACEFULLY: Your Guide To Aging with Vitality, Resilience, and Pizzazz", creator of GYG Organic Facial & Body Serums, and architect of Yoga for Living with Loss. I am usually immersed in how to age well, live well, and be well. I always considered myself to be vigilant about my good health, even a little prideful that I take no medications, walk 5-10 miles with ease, teach and take a variety of yoga classes, and am physically active biking, swimming, hiking, kayaking, gardening, and full of energy and optimism.
Instantly, my world turned upside down.
INVESTIGATION:
At the end of the summer, I noticed a small discoloration on my left, fifth toe and toe nail. Was it beach tar from my many swims at the local beach? If it came from my sneakers on my long walks causing friction, I got new sneakers. I applied tea tree oil, scrubbed, and didn't think it was cause for concern. In my yoga practice, I take each toe and move it in the six directions of flexibility; front/back; side/side; twist/twist. So I am very connected, aware, and touching and massaging my feet and toes all the time. My class commentary was that since my father was a podiatrist, my homage to my sweet Dad was our attention to our feet. This discoloration never hurt, never got bigger never got smaller, never bothered me. Was it a bruise? Was it just discoloration? I touched it, studied it, tried a few topical remedies, and was waiting for it to disappear. It did not.
At the end of my annual physical, I remembered to ask my wonderful doctor what she thought of this discoloration. She suggested I see a dermatologist. I got an appointment as soon as I could which was two weeks later. I saw a physician's assistant who looked at it with a bit of alarm and that was when I sensed this was a little more than I thought. He had me see another dermatologist that very day. This second dermatologist was one I had tried to see initially but she was unavailable for a new patient until November. I saw her that afternoon at the first dermatologist's insistence. I am forever grateful!
Dr. M. took a biopsy, stitched up that incision, and gave me my first full body scan. She took off a few basal cells and said the biopsy result would be back in a few days. I had never had a full body scan from a dermatologist before. We should ALL be checked!
DIAGNOSIS:
Three days later my result report was filed in my patient portal from Massachusetts General Hospital. I could not understand it, my dermatologist was not in her office, no one called me back, I was distraught because I did see the scary word: melanoma. I sent my lab report to a friend, who is a physician. She called me back to say I had Stage 2 melanoma and gave me an overview of what was ahead. This was at 3pm on Friday and no one was going to call me back over the weekend, although I certainly wish they had. I had already invited friends for a dinner party, oh. Cancel or continue on? I had all the food made, the table set, and a huge wrapped up biopsied toe. So they came. I told the what was going on. It was a night I have no recall because I was so distracted and trying to process it all. I was keeping it very private because I was mentally spinning. I had no time to figure out how I was going to move forward. I had not told my family yet. I was scared. I felt so invaded. That was the spark that ignited my processing. It was not a secret so much as a very private matter until I had some time to absorb the un-absorbable.
On Monday, my deeply apologetic dermatologist called and said she would get me to a melanoma surgeon as quickly as she could but it was possible that I would have a four week wait. UGH! Not so, three days later a scheduler called and I had an appointment in a week with Dr. T. , a renown surgeon and Harvard professor with a fantastic reputation. Even the scheduler said that he was highly regarded and sought after so I was definitely lucky.
I spent the waiting time researching all the possible options the surgeon might present, trying not to panic. I spoke with a friend who previously had melanoma. I talked to anyone I could that I felt safe around.
MEETING THE SURGEON
Just entering MGH again, after so many times with my husband Phil, who had a heart transplant almost five years ago, and now it was for ME! Taking the elevator to the Yawkey 7 was just intense. What was ahead now that we are here? As soon as we checked in, a young resident approached and asked if I would participate in a search study. I completely broke down. I saw the huge, glaring, bold lettering of this area, Cancer. I was in disbelief and truly overwhelmed. Phil was awesome, took me out to the hallway and totally took over as I just cried. Then my name was called....time to meet Dr. T.
His assistant was a lovely you woman who gently took my vitals and my blood pressure was higher than I have ever tested. Yes, I was stressed! I put on a gown and waited.
Dr. T. is a lovely man with a gentle manner. He gave me a thorough exam all over and then explained what was next. Fortunately, my niece, Staci reminded me to record the visit. He said that in order to completely remove the melanoma, he needed a clean margin. He drew it out. The clean margin was much larger than my infected toe. The toe would need to be removed. WHAT?????
He told me that this would not affect my activities, unless I was competing in the Olympics on the balance beam. He said to remember three things: 1. It's curable 2. It's curable 3. It's curable. He would perform the surgery and remove lymph nodes in my groin to see if the cancer cells had traveled. He said other information but all I heard was that my toe was going to be removed. I could not comprehend it. When I did, all I could do was cry. When I heard what he was saying all I could repeatedly ask..."Am I going to lose my toe?" He said yes, then continued talking of which I heard little of and then repeated my question. Yes, I was going to lose my toe. If the cells had spread, there was medication. We would know that after the surgery pathology report. What a shock! He said he would schedule the surgery soon and it might take a few weeks so not to worry. He wanted it at the most a six week wait. Oh boy! Within a few days, the surgery was scheduled the very next week.
WAITING
So I had from my March 14th visit with Dr. T to six short days later for my surgery on March 20th. It was all so fast, which was good to get it resolved. And it was almost too fast to get my head around. I spent a lot of time meditating and asking for all my melanoma cells to go to my toe and to be released upon surgery. I had Rieki, a massage at a Spa, an amazing Qi Gong healing, many tears, and great fears. I did tell my inner circle, my sons, other family and then more people about my circumstances. My situation was not a secret but just very private as I was processing, processing, processing.
It was like a pebble in a pond, each ripple was a bigger circle. I was very discerning about who I told because I wanted to protect my very fragile emotional state from any harsh, inappropriate (to me), horrified reactions. I really only told a few people and waited for others to reach out to me in a normal manner. I did go to a friend the day before and prefaced it with please do not react in any kind of hysterical manner. I did not want that energy. As I prepared, I looked and looked at my toe that was going to be removed. I said goodby and blessings, but I was frightened. I had no idea what to expect.
Those five days were a blur of getting ready. Getting food together, getting equipment from friends, and trying to stay calm. I had visualized that I would go downstairs in the morning and come up at night. That proved totally unrealistic.
I cried a lot. Phil cried with me. We were scared. We were unclear of what was next. I spoke often my kids, a few times with the grandkids, friends, and those who I chose to share my feelings with.
I spoke a lot to my family. My brother, his wife Mikki, and even my newest niece, Dr. B. I cried, I shared, and I was looking for guidance anywhere I could. My amazing support system was totally there for me and so very helpful in perspective and just holding the space for my tears and fears.
The days were counting down. I was deeply meditating and visualizing all my wayward cells were all going to my toe to be removed. I talked to my toe a lot.
I had a two hour Qi Gong session the day before. It was fantastic. At the end she said to me,"Say yes to any offers of help, food, etc." A dear friend asked me if I wanted to go to to a museum for distraction but I realized, listened to my body, and just needed quiet. Phil and I went about our usual dinner, watch TV, and be calm. We were getting up early for the day ahead.
BEFORE THE SURGERY
We got up, I took my shower, ate nothing and got in the car. I felt like I was going through the motions but this was not really my life. It was surreal. Got to the correct area, surgery, and could not even check it through my tears. Phil took care of it all. I went to nuclear medicine and waited. Finally I was called in. In nuclear medicine, a nice resident, had the best compliments for Dr. T. The nurse said 'Oh too bad about your pinky." And I was, "Please don't say that, it's hard enough." The resident injected me, painfully, with radioactive liquid that would show where my lymph nodes were to be removed for pathology. They told me to be still for 20 minutes. I said no problem...and then they started to talk to me. I told them I was going into a deep meditation and asked not to be engaged, and it was fine. I am so grateful that I have a meditation practice to allow me to focus on my breath, not the sensations.
Then we went back to the surgical floor and waited and waited and waited to be called. At about 1pm, we went to the pre-op area where Phil was with me all the way. I had a COVID test, put my clothes in a bag, waited and cried. I was overwhelmed with so much unknowing.
Then it was time... Said goodby to Phil, tearfully - yes lots of that! The nice transport guy took me to the pre-op area next to the OR, which I thought I would see before anesthesia. The resident of Dr. T. came in and started to chat while the anesthesiologist was also talking to me. He asked the resident to hold off and we spoke. The resident asked if I had any questions and said it must be hard to lose a part of my body, and it is. Then Dr. T came in. He placed the geiger counter on my leg to check that it was all in order and he could map my lymph nodes.
Dr. T was always very reassuring and calm.He told me the surgery would be a few hours. I asked him to say a little blessing over my toe, thank it for all the fun of yoga, dance, walks and take all the bad cells with it. He asked if I wanted him to say anything special, I said no, whatever he felt like saying. A lovely OR nurse was by my side and I asked her the same thing. Then the anesthesiologist returned. As I was asking him a question, I didn't finish the sentence. I woke up in recovery about four hours later.
POST OP
I think I was shaken awake by the nurses. I told them to call my husband and I was out of it!!! The nurses quickly got me up, helped me use crutches, gave me discharge orders, and when Phil came soon thereafter, I was put in the backseat with pillows for the ride home. It was obvious that I would not be able to make it upstairs so Phil called our neighbors, who were patiently and helpfully waiting on the porch. One had my leg, another held me under my arms, and who knows what else. I went up on my bum, got into bed and that was that!
RECOVERY
Phil so tenderly arranged the foam leg rest, my pillows, and gave me the meds I needed. I slept and I cried for so much. I cried because my body was so manipulated with heavy bandages on both my foot and my groin. I cried because I lost my toe. I cried because my body was filled with anesthesia. I cried because I did not know what was ahead. I cried for the loss of my healthy body and spirit of well-being I so cherished. I cried when I spoke to my family. I was overwhelmed by emotion and physical discomfort.
Friends brought dinner the first night. Another friend came to my room with dinner the next night. I don't remember much, just her loving voice. Meals, messages, cards, and flowers started flowing in. I slept in the same bed with Phil but was so aware that I didn't want anything to touch my foot.
I was using a walker, not crutches, as I felt it was easier to hop. Phil was by my side every minute day or night. He had to pull my pants down so I could use the toilet. He made sure I had water, pain meds, and his company that was so vital! I could hardly take a sponge bath as I was pretty immobile.
On day 3, the cleaners were coming so I moved, initially, to my office/guest bed so they could clean our room. Then that room became my 'Recovery Sanctuary.' I would sleep in our bed at night and move to this room during the day. As so many people brought and sent flowers, my desk became the 'Recovery Garden' that my dearest friend, Jean, was in charge of maintaining! I was surrounded by healing from friends and family, but most importantly, was under Phil's super attentive care.
Then a miraculous path was laid before me, and I took a deep dive. I had sent a massive email with my "Mourning to Light' broadcast. Dr. Anna Yusim responded that she needed some of my GYG serum and to check in. I told her briefly what was happening. She suggested I go to Joe Dispensa's website to poke around and look for a healing session. I found one the next day. I signed up, sent my photo, wrote of my healing need, and the next morning at 9am I was in the zoom healing. About 30 or so healers were on the zoom. There were six of us getting healed in groups of two for about twenty minutes each. During my specific time, my picture was on the screen with the other person designated. I don't know if everyone participated or select ones. It was a meditation recorded by Joe D. I don't know if I heard this from the meditation or from my own inner voice but what I heard was..."Find your inner healer and find your inner mystic." WOW! It was quite powerful.
My next step was google "Inner Mystic" and there is where I found Rabbi Simon Jacobson and his awesome discussions. I became an instant follower and have listened to as many of his teachings as I can, usually one a day. I just love the teachings, the Judaism, the deep dive into the mystical. My biggest takeaway to date is to see the world from the inside, spirit or soul, to the outside world. Not to see the outside world and how it might relate to my inner being, quite profound to me!
This led me to listened, study, meditate, and seriously journal my feelings, experiences, explorations, and epiphanies. And I continued to find more and more teachings on heal-in spirit, and more. I do appreciate the many videos and Web site easily available. I was not going anywhere so this was quite engaging. I looked at the stairs and they as accessible as the North Pole. I was immobile.
GRIEF:
My grief was a constant source of revelation and sorrow. I could not look at my disfigured foot. 48 hours after the surgery Phil needed to change the dressings on my fifth space and my groin. He most tenderly took care of the groin. The he took care of my foot. As he was removing that dressing, I went into my grief. I went so deep, so completely immersed, so totally in my body that I cried as never before. I deal with grief a lot. The grief of death of a family or friend is very much in the mind and the heart.
This bodily grief was so much different. I was totally in my body and at the most vulnerable, sad, overwhelming, and deepest place. It was a cellular level grief for my lost toe, a part of my body, my disfigurement, my loss. Just as tree roots support and 'speak' to each other, I felt the same thing. It was as if my cells were grieving for the loss. I was, as Phil told me, wailing as he had never heard. We both cried and cried. He held me and gave the space to just immerse in my loss. Then, and I have no idea how long that was, I was calm. I felt like I had cracked open. I felt lighter. I felt more peaceful. I felt that I had somehow released my deepest grief. I could now get on with this business of recovery. It was a profound moment that continues to affect me. I have had other moments of grief and loss, but none as deep.
It has been a very slow process for me to actually look at my foot, my fifth space, my newly designed body. I am slowly, with a prayer I wrote, with self-compassion, with a little pity party, and just feeling better, accepting what has occurred.
My Prayer to My Fifth Space:
Dear 5th Space,
Welcome to my body. We will be lovingly connected. We will find emotional and physical balance together. You are a gift and I will continue to receive your offering.
Lovingly,
The Rest of My Body
My loss, grief, and sorrow took up all the space within and around me. With each day of feeling stronger, that space is getting smaller, and I am resuming more of who I am aside from this most pivotal experience.
SPIRIT:
With my grief has come my existential crisis. Is it all random? Did I trigger this? What is my responsibility for this? Is there some meaning in all this? Is it just bad luck? Is there a message? I continue to ask with these questions from within. In my deep dive into the spiritual essence of my situation, I have a few insights. First, anytime I have gone to a medium, channeler, or seer, I am alway struck of the same description of my spirit guide. It is a man, well-groomed, closely associated with me. There are other descriptives and they all point to my father. My dad was also a podiatrist. My sister and I often said, 'Feet are our bread and butter," and we laughed. Also, in most of my yoga classes I focus on feet, verbally paying homage to my father. Is this a message from him. "Here is your challenge, notice it, take care of it, and be rid of it?" Could be.... and I would like to think so.
In my meditations, I call and thank my guides, my angels, the Divine energy, my beloved parents, my sister Susie, and best friend, Kaiya to guide me, protect me, and surround me. I believe that they do.
I have learned to look at this reality from the inside out (my inner mystic) rather than the external world influencing my internal world. I am a spiritual being having a human experience, not a human being having spiritual experience. That opens me to very wide exploration.
PAIN:
The groin incision was uncomfortable due to its location. I was hopping on a walker so that was a bit painful. My foot was throbbing at the surgery site. I was taking heavy medications. I was in la la land and enjoying it. I really immersed in pain as a sensation to be explored, not to be quickly dismissed and stressed about. I refer to my surgery sites as tender, rather than painful and they have greatly diminished in scope and intensity.
SUPPORT:
Hours before my surgery, I had a wonderful healing session. After that, she sat me down and told me to say 'YES!" Accept any and all offers of food, help, support. My natural instinct is to say not to bother, I am fine. But I did accept any and all offerings, and it has been fantastic! The outpouring from friends and family has been so beautiful. Close and not so close friends jumped right in to bring food. I am evidently well-known for a certain type of cuisine. We received lots and lots of vegetarian soups...hooray! Every text, call, card, flower, food, and visit gave me the love and energy to know I was cared about and cared for.
Having Phil as the most loving, gentle, attentive, and wonderful caregiver has been a true blessing. Yes, I cared for him during his recoveries. But this felt much more dependent, and I was. He ran up and down the stairs many, many, many times. He brought me tea in the morning and learned how to make the best cup of coffee for me. His over attention to detail, could be called OCD, is most appreciated in every respect.
MOVING ON:
Each day is brighter. I am able to walk more, do more around the house, feel less dependent and vulnerable, and get back into a productive and active lifestyle. I will incorporate what I have experienced and learned as I move forward. I am not sure of how I can share and help another but that is my next goal.
Growing Younger Gracefully Blog
Embracing Our Well-Being ~ Movement, Meditation, and Motivation for Women Over 60 By Sheena Nancy Sarles As we age, maintaining our holistic approach to health becomes increasingly vital. For women over 60, integrating movement, meditation, and motivation into our daily routines can lead to many physical, mental, and emotional benefits. These pillars of wellness are essential for enhancing quality of life, promoting longevity, and ensuring a vibrant and fulfilling existence. There is a great deal of information on healthy aging as we ‘boomers’ are meeting the challenges of growing older. We want to live fully and enjoy our blessings. While we know that the are more days behind us than ahead, let’s keep moving forward as best we can. There is no magic elixir for aging, if there were, we would all be drinking it, A LOT! My journey in this fascinating and sometimes challenging chapter has taught me that Movement, Mediation, and Motivation are a lifestyle choice. These are not new concepts, but they are worth repeating in a renewed perspective Movement ~ The Foundation of Physical Health We are in these physical bodies and we need to move. We might not have the energy or the knees to do what we did 20 years ago, but we can still move. It doesn’t matter if you walk five minutes a day or run a marathon, your bones, muscles, heart, and cells are calling you to move, move, move!!! Regular physical activity is crucial for women over 60 to maintain muscle mass, bone density, and cardiovascular health. As our bodies age, we naturally loses muscle strength and flexibility and have a higher risk for falls and fractures. With regular movement, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, we can meet these age-related changes. Many people have found that their aches and pains may be present, but moving seems to diminish those trouble spots. I do believe that many of our aches are just our bodies telling us that our sedentary choices are not serving us to our highest good. So stroll, walk, run, dance, swim, kayak, bike, practice yoga, or find something (ANYTHING!) that you enjoy and immerse in it as often as you can. Strength and Flexibility: Strength training exercises a few times a week can markedly improve your muscle mass and strength.Weightlifting or resistance band exercises are great choices. Flexibility exercises, such as stretching or yoga, help maintain the range of motion in joints, reducing stiffness and discomfort. Cardiovascular Health: Brisk walking, cycling, or swimming enhance cardiovascular health by improving heart function and circulation. Regular aerobic exercise lowers the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, which are more prevalent in older adults. Mental Well-being: Physical activity is a powerful mood booster. It releases endorphins and oxytocin the body's natural feel-good hormones, which help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular movement also promotes better sleep, which is crucial for overall mental health. The very best exercise is the one you will do! Meditation ~ Nurturing the Mind and Spirit Meditation offers amazing benefits for mental and emotional well-being, making it an invaluable practice for women over 60. As life slows down, the mind often remains busy with worries about health, family, and the future. Meditation provides a sanctuary of peace and clarity amidst the noise. So many of us think: I can’t sit still. I have too much to do. My mind is too busy. My favorite is, I tried meditation once and it didn’t do anything for me. That is like going to the gym once and saying I didn't lose five pounds, it doesn’t work for me. Practice is the key! Stress Reduction: One of the most significant benefits of meditation is its ability to reduce stress. Regular meditation practice lowers cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone. This reduction in stress helps decrease the risk of stress-related illnesses, such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Cognitive Function: Meditation has been shown to improve cognitive function, enhancing memory, focus, and mental clarity. It encourages the growth of grey matter in the brain, which is associated with processing information and emotions. Cognitive decline is a common concern. Emotional Balance: Meditation cultivates emotional resilience and balance. We observe our thoughts and emotions and witness without judgment, fostering a sense of acceptance and inner peace. This can be particularly empowering for women over 60, as it helps us navigate the emotional challenges that often accompany aging. Meditation takes practice, so start a gentle, short, breath and stillness session today! Motivation ~The Drive to Thrive Motivation is the driving force that propels any of us to achieve our goals and live life to the fullest. For women over 60, staying motivated is essential, although not always easy, for maintaining an active and engaged lifestyle. Goal Setting: Setting small, realistic and achievable goals is a powerful motivator. Whether it's learning a new skill, pursuing a hobby, or committing to a fitness routine, having clear objectives provides direction and purpose. Celebrating small victories along the way reinforces the motivation to keep going. Remember “The Little Red Engine’… I think I can!” Social Connections: Maintaining social connections is a key factor. Participating in group activities, such as fitness classes, book clubs, or volunteering, fosters a sense of community and belonging. Our social network can provide emotional support and encouragement, making it easier to stay committed to personal goals. Positive Attitude: Cultivating a positive mindset is crucial for motivation. Practicing gratitude, appreciation for the even the smallest blessing, focusing on strengths, and embracing a can-do attitude can help overcome challenges and frustrations. A positive outlook not only boosts motivation but also enhances overall happiness and life satisfaction. A gratitude practice I recently cultivated is not only to name what I am grateful but to add the why. I am grateful for my body that can walk with ease because I get to smell the flowers along the way. “The mind is everything. What you think you become.” – Buddha In Conclusion ~ For women over (and under!) 60, the combination of movement, meditation, and motivation forms a powerful triad for holistic well-being. Regular physical activity ensures a strong and healthy body, while meditation nurtures the mind and spirit. Motivation drives growth and engagement, fostering a fulfilling and vibrant life. By embracing these practices, women can navigate the challenges of aging with grace, resilience, and joy. “Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” Betty Friedan
DO YOU SHOW SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THE DELICATE SKIN AROUND YOUR EYES? BY SHEENA NANCY SARLES MARCH 20, 2024 BEAUTY As we age, we notice how our skin changes in appearance and texture. We can attribute the look and feel of our skin to our lifestyle, our nourishment, our genetics, and our skin care regimen. Wrinkles around the eyes may develop as the skin ages, due to it losing the ability to renew itself. Certain essential oils and products may help to diminish those wrinkles in the eye area. However, whatever product you use, remember to apply it by very, very, very gently dabbing or patting. Never rub, pull, tug, or use anything stronger than a light touch from your middle or fourth finger. Your index finger is just too strong for delicate application. Wrinkle Categories We may have one or more types of creases under and over our eyes, each of which occurs due to a different cause. Dynamic Wrinkles Dynamic wrinkles form from repeated contraction of muscles underneath the skin. They typically develop between the eyebrows and on the forehead. Crow’s feet, which are wrinkles near the outer corners of the eyes, are also an example of dynamic wrinkles. Static Wrinkles Static wrinkles remain visible even when the facial muscles are at rest. They form as a result of exposure to the sun, smoking, and poor nutrition. Wrinkle Folds Another type of wrinkle is the wrinkle fold. This is the age-related sagging of facial structures that usually develop in the grooves between the nose and mouth, but they may also occur underneath the eyes. Prevention Wrinkles are an inevitable part of aging, but people can take steps to prevent them. Home remedies such as placing slices of cucumber on the eyes or applying banana face masks, are popular, but there is no scientific data to support these, although they feel good and can ‘plump’ those areas of delicate skin for a short period of time. Other methods include: Wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 every day. Avoiding sitting in direct sunlight. Moisturizing gently with organic products every day. Only gently patting the under and over eye area. Quitting smoking, if relevant. Eating a healthful, balanced diet. The Good News The good news is that some studies suggest that polyphenols, chemical compounds found in foods and essential oils, can diminish the appearance of eye wrinkles. The four main categories of polyphenols are: Flavonoids, found in colorful fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. Phenolic acids, found in the seeds, skins, and leaves of fruits and vegetables. Lignans, found in whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Stilbenes are abundant in peanuts, grapes, and berries. We can all do our own research, experimentation, and applications to see what enhances our particular delicate eye area skin texture. From my own experimentation, I found that combining certain organic essential oils reduces my dry, creased, and loose eye area skin. My Organic Growing Younger Gracefully Eye Serum GYG Organic Eye Serum is a unique formula of: Castor Oil Rich in polyphenols, Castor Oil penetrates the skin and has been shown to stimulate the body’s own production of collagen and elastin. Castor oil is a humectant, meaning it helps the skin hold onto water molecules and helps to sustain hydration over a longer period of time. Grapeseed Oil Grapeseed Oil rejuvenates the skin naturally, nourishing while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles under eye area where dark circles appear. Coconut Oil Coconut Oil carries antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can hydrate the under eye area, reduce inflammation, and potentially lighten dark circles. Almond Oil Almond Oil can help to lighten the dark circles under the eyes and reduce puffiness thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also contains retinol, vitamin E, and vitamin K, which can keep the delicate skin under your eyes smooth without irritating it. These naturally occurring ingredients may also help contract the dilated blood vessels that are causing the discoloration. Avocado Oil Avocado Oilcan help reduce dark circles, puffiness, and wrinkles. It can be used morning and evening to reduce the appearance of signs of fatigue or skin sagging. Gently dabbing (never tugging or rubbing) helps to stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation, and has a draining effect. Avocado oil is suitable for all skin types. Helichrysum Oil Helichrysum Oil tightens and tones the delicate skin around the eyes, quickly absorbing to remove puffiness, and supports plumping to give your eyes a fresh vibrant look. We have all tried different eye care regimens over the years. Some worked, others didn’t. Whatever you decide to do for your eye area, just remember – always be gentle!
Are Your Eyes Sparkling? The delicate skin around our eyes needs special care and attention As we age, we notice how our skin changes in appearance and texture. We can attribute how our skin looks and feels to our lifestyle, our nourishment, our genetics, and our skin care to our mature skin. Wrinkles under the eye may develop as the skin ages, due to it losing the ability to renew itself. Certain essential oils may help to diminish wrinkles in the eye area. Most importantly when applying anything to your under or over eyes, always use very, very, very gently dabbing or patting. Never rub, pull, tug, or use anything stronger than a light touch from your middle or fourth finger. Your index finger is just too strong for delicate application. Wrinkle Categori es.We may have one or more types of creases under and over our eyes, each of which occurs due to a different cause. Dynamic wrinkl es form from repeated contraction of muscles underneath the skin. Dynamic wrinkles typically develop between the eyebrows and on the forehead. Crow’s feet, which are wrinkles near the outer corners of the eyes, are also an example of dynamic wrinkles. Static wrin kles remain visible even when the facial muscles are at rest from exposure to the sun, smoking, and poor nutrition. Wrinkle folds are the age-related sagging of facial structures that usually develop in the grooves between the nose and mouth, but they may also occur underneath the eyes. Home Remedies such as placing slices of cucumber on the eyes or applying banana face masks, are popular but there is no scientific data to support these, although they feel good and can ‘plump’ those areas of delicate skin for a short period of time. Prevention Wrinkles are an inevitable part of aging, but people can take steps to prevent them. These include: Wear sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 every day Avoiding sitting in direct sunlight Moisturize gently with organic products everyday Only gently pat the under and over eye area Stop smoking, if relevant Eat a healthful, balanced diet The Good News The good news is that some studies suggest that polyphenols, a chemical compound in foods and essential oils can diminish the appearance of eye wrinkles. Polyphenols are a micronutrient found in many plant-based foods. The four main categories are: Flavonoids found in colorful fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. Phenolic acids found in the seeds, skins, and leaves of fruits and vegetables. Lignans found in whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Stilbenes are abundant in peanuts, grapes, and berries. We can all do our own research, experimentation, and applications to see what enhances our particular delicate eye area skin texture. From my own experimentation, I found that combining certain organic essential oils reduces my dry, creased, and loose eye area skin. Since necessity is the mother of invention, I created GYG Organic Eye Serum, https://www.growingyoungergracefully.com, with all organic essential oils to diminish lines, reduce puffiness, increase hydration, and bring a vitality to my dull delicate skin that I am eager to share with you. GYG Organic Eye Serum is a unique formula of: Castor Oil, rich in polyphenols, penetrates the skin and has been shown to stimulate the body’s own production of collagen and elastin. Castor oil is a humectant, meaning it helps the skin hold on to water molecules and helps to sustain hydration over a longer period of time Grapeseed Oil rejuvenates naturally, nourishing while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles under eye area where dark circles appear. Coconut Oi l carries antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can hydrate the under-eye area, reduce inflammation, and potentially lighten dark circles. Almond Oil c an help to lighten the dark circles under eyes and reduce puffiness thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Almond oil also contains retinol, vitamin E, and vitamin K, which can keep the delicate skin under your eyes smooth without irritating it. These naturally occurring ingredients may also help contract the dilated blood vessels that are causing the discoloration. Avocado Oil can help reduce dark circles, puffiness, and wrinkles It can be used morning and evening to reduce the appearance of signs of fatigue or skin sagging. Gently dabbing (never tugging or rubbing) helps to stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation, and has a draining effect. Avocado oil is suitable for all skin types Helichrysum Oil tightens and tones the delicate skin around the eyes, quickly absorbing to remove puffiness and supports plumping to give your eyes a fresh vibrant look. As a woman over 60, solo entrepreneur, and creator of GYG Organic Serums, I am proud to offer GYG Organic Face, Eye, & Body Serums with no chemicals, no preservatives, and no corporate overlords . GYG Organic Serums is just me creating plant-based, clean, organic, handmade, blessed, and made with love. For more information, pleas visit https://www.growingyoungergracefully.com.
Now is the season of warm sunny days, sand in your toes, lots of outdoor fun and.....SUNSCREEN! Here are a few hints to keep you safe from the harmful effects of the sun's rays that can damage the skin on your lovely face and body: First apply GYG Organic Facial Serum and GYG Organic Body Serum as a base so your skin is nourished with organic ingredients and let your sunscreen sit on top, not in your pores. No product is truly “waterproof,” and none protects your skin for more than 40 to 80 minutes. Don’t forget your lips. If you put lipgloss on your lips that does not have sun protection, you’re sizzling them. Always opt for a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB to protect your skin from ultraviolet-B (UVB) rays, which cause sunburns and skin damage, as well as ultraviolet-A (UVA) rays that increase your risk for skin cancer. Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. For best protection, apply one ounce of sunscreen to every part of your body exposed to the sun. Invest the time and care in yourself. Reapply, reapply, reapply. That’s paramount! Liberally apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside as your skin can take up to a half-hour to absorb the protection. The best protection is a hat, sunglasses, long sleeves, and shade! To keep your skin protected, nourished, and GLOWing, wear GYG Organic Body Serum under your sunscreen.
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We all experience some type of stress, anxiety, and frustration these days. A simple release can come from listening to joyful, peaceful, melodic sounds be it music, sounds of the waves, birds singing, or whatever delights you. The ways that your body reacts to various sounds and vibrations can have an uplifting and calming impact on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Sound frequencies can slow down the brain waves and bring about a deeply restorative state that activates the body's own self-healing. A few benefits from sounds that heal .... Deep Relaxation Clears emotional blockages Boosts your health Supports mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being LISTEN HERE
Here is fantastic message about ANTI anti-aging from my friend Margaret Manning at Sixty & Me. Margaret appeals to influencers and others to celebrate our aging, not hide just as I do in my book "GROWING YOUNGER GRACEFULLY: Your Guide To Aging with Vitality, Resilience, and Pizzazz." https://www.growingyoungergracefully.com/ Aging doesn't need a 'cure', it is to be honored, cherished, and revered!
I want to share this informative article from The New York Times that alerts us that many personal care products contain harmful chemicals. You won’t find ANY in GYG Face & Body Organic Serums. Read The New York Times, February 15, 2023 HERE: Many Personal Care Products Contain Harmful Chemicals. Here’s What to Do About It. Take these small steps to lower your exposure. Please check the products you are using for harmful chemicals…. and toss them. You have no worries with GYG Organic Facial & Body Serums. I use only all organic essential oils of Grapeseed, Vitamin E, Lavender, Frankincense, Helichrysum, and Rose. I hand make, bless, and create each bottle of GYG Serum in small batches to nourish, hydrate, protect, tone, and brighten your beautiful skin!! Get Your Trusted GYG Organic Face & Body Serums HERE !
NAVIGATING GRIEF IN OUR BODIES by Sheena Nancy Sarles, April 1, 2022 As we age, we are more exposed to death, loss, grief, and mourning. We feel our losses deeply and we seek some kind of accessible comfort through our tears. Those tears form our river of grief. Grief Is Like a River While grief and loss are universal, our own grief is very personal. No one can really know what we alone are feeling. In my own experiences with the deep loss of my parents, my best friend, and, most of all, my big sister, I know the river of loss quite well. Like a river, sometimes my grief is deep and still, or ferocious like rapids. I swim with it and against it. Sometimes I am next to it, or floating, or just witnessing the flow. My grief is always with me in some manner because it is part of who I am now. For me, connecting my grief with my chakras offers me an emotional, spiritual, and physical outlet for my pain. The chakras are the seven main energy centers in our subtle bodies. I found that gentle yoga connected to my chakras allowed me to be present, feel my feelings, and continue to survive, and even thrive while immersed in my grief. I invite you to take a conscious assessment of where your grief settles and congests and using these ideas, become aware of how you can find release and even comfort on your journey of grief. Grief Manifesting in Your Bod y When I feel fearful, ungrounded, or unstable, I know my grief is in my first, ROOT chakra at the base of my spine and perineum. I breathe in and visualize the color red. I stretch my legs out, grounded on the earth and move my feet in flex, arch, and circles. I am safe right here and right now. I repeat “I AM.” When I feel stuck, disconnected, unmoving, or with a low back ache, my grief is in my second, SACRAL chakra in the hips and lower back. I move my hips in a cat/cow or make hip circles in a sitting position. I breathe in and visualize the color orange. I am connected to the others. I repeat “I FEEL.” My belly can become congested, and I feel no motivation to do anything. That is my third, SOLAR PLEXUS chakra between the navel and lowest rib. I practice gentle abdominal sit-ups and activate my belly with deep breaths visualizing the color yellow. I am in the world and able to participate. I repeat “I DO.” I am heartbroken. I feel so lonely. I am so sad and my grief rests right on my fourth, HEART chakra in the center of my chest. I open my heart with hands clasped or reach my arms behind my back, give myself a good hug, then open my arms to the sky. I am grateful to have loved and been loved. I breathe in the color green, take a walk in nature, and listen to my heartbeat. I repeat “I LOVE.” A weak voice or sore throat is my fifth, THROAT chakra around my neck holding my grief. I cannot speak or express myself. I practice gentle neck rolls, sing aloud, and find comfort in any creative way to communicate to another. I visualize the color blue and breathe into my throat. I repeat “I SPEAK.” My sixth, THIRD EYE chakra manifests my grief in headaches or blurry vision, between and just above my eyebrows. I cannot see clearly as my two eyes look out and my third eye looks inward. I open my eyes as wide as I can, and l move my eyes to each number in a big clock, counterclockwise, and follow my thumb as I move it to the extreme right and left. I breathe into my eyelids and visualize the color purple. I repeat “I KNOW.” My seventh, CROWN chakra is the white light, like a halo, hovering above my head. I can feel the energy of my beloved when I close my eyes, see their faces, and trust their divine energy is nearby. To access their love, I breathe in the white light above, around, and within me. I repeat “I UNDERSTAND.” Becoming Aware When we are aware of how our bodies and minds respond to our grief, we can find some comfort in the messages delivered by our chakras. We can move, breathe, visualize, and know that our grief and loss are also our love. We can navigate our losses without getting lost through our chakras. Here is a brief introduction to Yoga for Living with Loss: Please visit my website where you can find my Yoga for Living with Loss Video Series, Yoga for Living with Loss blogs, workshops and weekly zoom classes. What does your grief feel like? Do you imagine it is like a river, or does it have a different shape? Does it change with time? Let's Have a Conversation! I have read and agree to Terms and Conditions of website and agree to my Facebook data being stored and used as per Privacy Policy Sheena Nancy Sarles is the passionate founder of Growing Younger Gracefully™, creator of GYG Organic Facial and Body Serums™, author of “Growing Younger Gracefully: Your Guide to Aging with Vitality, Resilience, and Pizzazz,” and a lifelong student of well-being. Please visit her at www.GrowingYoungerGracefully.com
YOUR BREATH - Always begin and end each breath exercise with a few full abdominal breaths ABDOMINAL CALMING BREATH : Inhale to inflate belly - Exhale to deflate belly - first any length that is comfortable. Slows heart rate; increased blood flow and circulation, increases energy, increased focus and concentration Increases elasticity of lungs and diaphragm Fully oxygenates all the cells and keeps telemeters longer BREATHING ONLY THROUGH YOUR NOSE: 5 inhales/5 exhales Soothes the body and mind Directly effects the nervous system, filters and warms the air before it gets to the lungs. RELAXATION/PRESSURE REDUCING BREATH : (After 5 abdominal breaths) Focus each inhalation on a tense area of your body. Imagine with each exhalations the tension streaming out of your nostrils Relieves targeted ache or pain tension and stress, Reduces high blood pressure, lowers pulse, releases endorphins that produce feelings of general wellbeing and relaxation ALTERNATE NOSTRIL BREATHING : Close right nostril and inhale 2 counts, close left so both are closed and hold for 4 counts, exhale through left for 4; Repeat other side: Activates calm, harmony, and balance. Left Nostril breathing to right brain: To calm, get to sleep, reflective, cooling, feeling Right Nostril breathing to left brain: For clarity and focus and more energy, thinking, heating COOLING and HEATING BREATH: Cooling: Inhale with tongue curled up. Feel the menthol of the cooling. Warming: With closed mouth inhale and feel the warmth, let is spread through your whole face and body. Exhale cold air through your mouth. Use the cooling and heating breath whenever you need it! CLEANSING BREATH: Inhale deeply through your nose. Exhale through a puckered mouth as if your were blowing out a candle 3 times. Inhale deeply, drop chin to chest, and think of all the tension you are releasing and exhale with neutral chin. This secret weapon helps you meet any challenge. Releases carbon dioxide from the lungs. Do this periodically during the day to keep the lungs from filling with tension. BREATH OF FIRE: Inhale and quickly exhale pulling abdominals in. Reduce stress Improves digestion/elimination Strengthens abdominals BREATH OF JOY : Inhale with arms overhead, inhale with arms to side, inhale with arms overhead, deep exhale forward with deep knee bend. Awakens your whole system. For more information: Sheena Nancy Sarles www.growingyoungergracefully.com SheenaSpirit@gmail.com