Your Self-Care: Embracing Mindfulness
In the second part of our series looking at your own self-care, Ayurvedic expert Shalin Balasuriya explains how mindfulness can offer a holistic approach for beauty and hair professionals.
In this people-oriented industry, each day presents unique challenges. Therefore, prioritising wellness becomes even more essential. This can be done in four phases: before work, during work, breaks and after work.
Before work
Prior to starting your day at work, it is essential to set the tone for the day ahead. Begin your morning with a ritual that nurtures your mind, body and spirit.
Consider starting your day with a cup of water, followed by a cup of herbal tea infused with calming ingredients such as Gotukola or lavender before you start work; our Spa Ceylon Herbal Infusions can be a great fit for this. Allow the warmth of the tea to soothe your senses, grounding you in the present moment.
Follow this with a brief meditation session, focusing on your breath and cultivating a sense of inner stillness.
For this, I recommend adding a wellness balm, such as our Peace Balm as it is a natural cooling, soothing and relaxing formula that gently soothes and clarifies your senses.
Journaling can also be a powerful practice to clear the clutter of the mind, setting intentions for the day and expressing gratitude for the opportunities ahead.
Always strive to remain present in each moment, fully engaged with the task at hand and approach each interaction with mindfulness and intentionality. Enhance what could be mundane tasks by incorporating simple sensory experiences to accompany them.
Consider incorporating soft music into your workspace to create a serene ambience that nurtures both you and your clients.
Additionally, diffuse essential oils known for their calming properties, such as frankincense or bergamot to evoke a sense of tranquility and relaxation.
Remember to take things lighter, as laughter releases chemicals that promote well-being. Treat every customer as an opportunity to spread joy; it not only reflects in your work but also releases oxytocin, enhancing your own sense of well-being.
Bring a touch of the outdoors into your workspace through indoor plants for added tranquility and vitality.
Breaks
Amidst the hustle and bustle of a busy day, timely breaks serve as opportunities for restoration and renewal.
Step away from your workstation to give your body and senses a moment of reprieve. Take a few deep breaths and adjust your posture to open up your airways, as breath is fuel for your body.
Incorporate gentle stretches or mindful stretching to promote blood flow and alleviate any physical strain accumulated throughout the day.
Nourish yourself with a healthy snack or a refreshing drink, replenishing your energy reserves for the tasks ahead.
Connect with nature by taking a brief walk outside, grounding yourself in the beauty of the natural world.
After work
As the day draws to a close, transition from work mode to a state of relaxation and restoration. Create a ritual that signals to your body and mind that it's time to unwind, such as taking a walk through the park instead of the street. Walking amidst trees that emit phytoncides helps to reduce cortisol levels and create relaxation.
Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as reading a book, practising gentle yoga, or enjoying a calming cup of herbal tea. Prioritise quality sleep by establishing a bedtime routine that encourages restorative rest, such as setting a consistent bedtime, dimming the lights and disconnecting from electronic devices at least an hour before bed.
By weaving mindfulness practices into daily routines and interactions, you can cultivate a sense of presence, purpose and peace amidst the chaos. In doing so, you not only enhance your well-being but also elevate the experience of those you serve, creating a ripple effect of positivity and transformation in the world of beauty and wellness.
Shalin Balasuriya is an Ayurvedic expert and co-founder of UK's largest luxury Ayurveda brand Spa Ceylon.
