1. Exfoliates Dead Skin Cells

Dead Sea salt also helps clarify the skin through its ability to slough off dead skin cells, which can augment clogged pores, skin roughness, and blemishes. The slightly rough texture of Dead Sea salt makes it a mild, yet reliable exfoliant.

Dead Sea Salt Body Scrub

1. Combine half a cup of finely ground Dead Sea salt with a quarter cup of coconut or olive oil.
2. Enjoy the many skin benefits of a Dead Sea salt scrub by rubbing it with your fingertips using small circular motions, working your way from your feet to your neck.
3. Allow the scrub to soak in your skin for a few minutes before rinsing it with slightly warm water.

2. Helps Diminish Fine Lines and Wrinkles

One of the many remarkable benefits of Dead Sea salt for skin is its ability to promote a youthful glow. In assessing the effects of Dead Sea salt on aging skin, a study was conducted and found that this helps reduce skin roughness which partly contributes to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Keeping your skin perfectly moisturized is also essential to keeping your look youthful. The mineral contents in Dead Sea salt may help the skin retain its hydration.

Boost the moisturizing and age-defying properties of Dead Sea salt by using skincare products containing purple tea. This antioxidant-filled tea plant has been a subject of scientific and beauty researches in recent years for its powerful health benefits.

3. Minimizes Large Pores

Pores are small openings through your skin that allow it to breathe. These little passages secrete natural oil to keep skin hydrated and also excrete toxins from your body.

Skin pores appear visibly enlarged when clogged with excess oils, makeup, pollutants, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria.

Exfoliating the skin with Dead Sea salt may help unclog skin pores while removing dead skin cells, exposing healthy new skin.

4. Boosts Detoxification

The minerals from the Dead Sea salt help detoxify the body from the outside by assisting in blood circulation. This, in turn, may help diminish cellulite. In addition, minerals which are released from the salt may help break down the old fat cells, which are also responsible for the dimpling effect on the skin.

5. Promotes Strong and Healthy Nails

Do you suffer from weak and brittle nails? This might just be the perfect time to soak your fingernails in Dead Sea salt solution.

Dead Sea Salt Nail Soak

1. Mix up 1 teaspoon Dead Sea salt, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of water and a half teaspoon of olive oil in a small bowl.
2. Soak your nails in this solution for about 5 minutes before rinsing.

6. Soothes Sore Muscles

Dead Sea salt bath can help relieve muscle cramps and soreness and offers a relaxing therapy to ease the pain and discomfort of fatigued and tense tissues.

According to one study, bathing in the Dead Sea over the course of 10 days showed significant improvement on the severity and frequency of symptoms of fibromyalgia, a chronic condition represented by muscle pain.

Alleviation from muscle pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness, anxiety, and joint swelling was prompt after treatment. More often than not, the best remedies in life are the simplest. Nature can offer us solutions to restore our health that we may not even know about.

Now that we have looked about the many Dead Sea salt benefits to our overall health, this might be the right time to indulge in this simple yet extraordinary skincare product more often.

Have you tried using Dead Sea salt on your skin? Share your experiences with us in the comments section below.

7. Soothes Chronic Skin Conditions

Chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can make the skin appear scaly and feel really itchy. According to a study, getting a salt bath may have therapeutic effects on psoriasis vulgaris.

Enjoy your bath by adding a quarter cup of Dead Sea bath salts to your tub of water and soak for around 20 minutes. Do this three times a week until the skin itch subsides.

Stop immediately if irritation occurs.

8. Helps Fight Bad Breath

Bacteria break down food and release volatile sulfur compounds. These are responsible for the foul odor associated with most bad breath.

Gargling mineral-rich Dead Sea salt solution may help fight off halitosis-causing bacteria.

If monthly facials are a stretch for your budget, you can still reap many of the benefits by ensuring you get at least 4 facials per year. It is the perfect time to revamp your skincare routine to keep up with the change in weather.

Paraffin wax treatments in particular have great benefits for the skin, muscles and joints. These paraffin treatments are said to have been used since the times of the Roman Empire because of their benefits when used in massages and as an esthetic treatment on the skin. This ancient technique is still practiced in many spas today as well as in some sports medicine clinics. In the past, paraffin treatments have been used to treat a variety of ailments such as:

• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Eczema
• Fibromyalgia
• Fibrositis
• Inflammation
• Muscle Spasms
• Overworked/Fatigued Muscles
• Psoriasis
• Scar Tissue
• Stiff Joints
• Tendonitis
• Tennis Elbow

Benefits Of Paraffin Treatments

Paraffin wax is unlike other kinds of waxes used in spas for hair removal procedures in that it is a softer wax that will not stick or cause any pain upon removal. It has a low melting point and is heated in a special paraffin wax heater to ensure it is warm enough to reap all the benefits but not hot enough to cause burns.

Paraffin has excellent esthetic benefits. It is moisturizing and will leave rough skin (especially on the hands and feet!) extremely smooth and soft. Applying the warm wax brings blood flow to the area which can help alleviate muscle and joint pain. If you want a little extra pampering for your feet, try our Moisture and Massage treatment which includes an aromatherapy soak, massage and natural paraffin treatment!

How Does Our “Paraffin” Wax Treatment Work At Alma?

Our version of “paraffin” wax is actually a mix of organic soy wax, beeswax and a variety of hydrating oils. We developed this blend for a few reasons. First, paraffin is actually a petroleum derived wax. When we apply the wax to your skin, the heat from the wax opens your pores. Because of this, anything we apply can penetrate the skin so we want to be 100% sure that it is safe & non-toxic. Also, both soy and beeswax have fabulous emollient properties that help moisturize the skin and create a barrier to help the lotion and oils penetrate your skin.

While many spas use a technique to apply the wax in which the hands or feet are submerged in a paraffin wax bath, at Alma we apply the wax to your hands or feet with a single-use applicator to ensure a completely sanitary procedure. We also provide our guests with paraffin booties that retain the moisture and heat as long as possible to provide maximum benefit.

Repeated treatments can yield fantastic long-term effects, so if you’re looking for a skin smoothing or pain soothing treatment, give paraffin a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Tea Tree Oil originates from the leaves of the indigenous Malaleuca Tree, is known to be antimicrobial and has many uses. Below are just a few everyday uses and why we feel that it is a must-have in everyone’s “natural medicine” cabinet.

Tea Tree Oil can be used topically for arthritis pain or bruising by adding approximately 15-20 drops to a carrier oil, such as grapeseed, sweet almond or jojoba oil and massaging it into the affected area.

Apply Tea Tree Oil directly to minor cuts, blemishes, canker sores, cold sores and ingrown hairs to prevent infections and speed up the healing process.

Tea Tree Oil is also excellent for household cleaning. Not only does it act as a lovely air freshener, it can help prevent the spread of germs by adding the oil to a spray bottle of water or adding a small amount to your laundry for towels, blankets and other household items that can be prone to musty odors and mold.

The list of the amazing uses and benefits of Tea Tree Oil is almost endless and is definitely an essential oil that we recommend become a household staple. Alma Naturals Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil is now available in 10ml bottles in the spa for only $9.99.

Improved Circulation: Improved circulation helps to improve the elimination of waste.

Stimulating Lymphatic Drainage: Dry brushing regularly helps stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a critical role in eliminating toxins from the body. When the lymphatic system is congested toxins build up, making us sick.

Better Skin: Dry brushing will improve the look and feel of your skin by removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, leaving it is soft and smooth. It also can help reduce cellulite as it can help break soften hard fat deposits under the skin.

Dry skin brushing tips: (this is only a 2-3 minute process)

• Purchase a brush only with soft natural bristles. They can easily be found and are very affordable.
• Do not use synthetic bristles. Only use the brush dry and shower after to remove dead and exfoliated skin.
• Be gentle. Work in an upwards motion towards your heart starting at your feet and in a circular motion, clockwise on your stomach. This improves blood circulation.
• Your skin may appear flushed. This is normal. If it is irritated you are applying too much pressure.
• Clean your brush afterwards.
• Moisturize your skin after your shower with an organic oil or lotion of your choice.

Taking a few minutes a day prior to showering will result in almost immediate benefits. Your skin will feel softer and the elimination of toxins will be improved resulting in better health.

If that perception is not gone, then it really ought to have disappeared, because Science has determined bona fide benefits of meditation and meditational breathing techniques. Meditation can be practically done by anyone and in very secular circumstances.

Anyone who seeks to decrease anxiety, increase concentration, perhaps even to achieve some measure of healing from a past traumatic event may want to begin practicing meditation. There are a slew of health benefits to be gained from taking a portion of time to focus all one’s mental energy in one place. Perhaps the most daunting part of undertaking meditation is sticking to it. Living in this web2.0 society renders most of us expecting instant results. To feel the benefits of meditation, regularity in practice is key. The human mind is attuned to repetition as being the primary way it seeks comfort – with that which it is familiar.

Brain scientist Richard Davidson has found compelling evidence (as shown with MRI scans of Afghanistan war veterans) that regular breathing and meditation can effectively reduce sleeplessness, general anxiety, create a more optimistic mindset, ameliorate a previously dreary disposition and even alleviate the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Dr.Davidson and his contemporaries have deduced that it is possible to “rewire the brain through meditation”

Calm on down, sit yourself comfortably, focus the mind and breath yourself into your optimum.

One of our favourite recipes as the weather starts to cool down is Oh She Glows’ Black Bean, Sweet Potato, and Quinoa soup. The sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene and other antioxidants great for the skin. They are also considered an anti-inflammatory food. The quinoa and black beans are both excellent plant-based sources of protein. This recipe is great on its own, or can be garnished with avocado, cilantro, and salsa to give it a Mexican inspired flaire! Best enjoyed wrapped in a blanket on those brisk fall days!

Black Bean, Sweet Potato, and Red Quinoa Soup
Inspired by: Sprouted Kitchen & Coconut & Quinoa
Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup uncooked red quinoa, rinsed and drained
1/2 tbsp coconut oil (or other oil)
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cup diced sweet onion (about 1/2 large)
1 jalapeno, seeded if preferred and diced
1 large sweet potato (350 g), peeled and chopped to 1/2-1 inch dice (2.5-3 cups)*
1.5 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground coriander
6 cups vegetable broth
1.5 cups cooked black beans (one (15-oz) can rinsed and drained)
fine grain sea salt and black pepper, to taste (I used 1/2 tsp salt or a bit more)
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (or red pepper flakes)2 handfuls Spinach or kale leaves
Optional toppings: avocado, corn chips, cilantro, cashew cream, lime juice, tomatoes or salsa, green onion

1. In a medium-sized pot, add quinoa along with 1.5 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and cover with tight fitting lid. Simmer covered for about 17 minutes or until the water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat, fluff with fork, and keep it covered until ready to use.

2. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large wok or pot. Add garlic and onion and sauté for a few minutes over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper. Now add in the jalapeno and sweet potato and sauté for 5-7 minutes more.

3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, coriander, and broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 18-20 minutes uncovered, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Just before serving, stir in the cooked quinoa, drained and rinsed black beans, cayenne, and optional spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding more spice if desired.

5. Garnish soup with cherry tomatoes, cilantro, green onion, corn chips, avocado, and/or cashew cream.

Read more: http://ohsheglows.com/2012/11/30/black-bean-sweet-potato-and-red-quinoa-soup/#ixzz3ok9ay4WA

We invite you to come on in and enjoy one of our Moisture & Massage Treatments. Our treatments start with a Dead Sea salt foot soak, followed by a Dead Sea salt exfoliating scrub, a relaxing 10 minute massage and natural wax intense moisture treatment. Finish with optional application of grounding aromatherapy oils.

In the winter we noticed skin gets so dry and dull so take advantage of our special pricing! You have your choice of Hands OR Feet for $35 or for both Hands and Feet $60.
​ Plus, take home with you Alma Naturals Body Butter and Body Scrub and save 15%! Call to book your appointment or book online!

Some people call nail polish natural or organic, but nail polish isn’t organic in the same way that an apple or orange is. While many companies have developed non-toxic and low chemical formulas, they still do not meet our definition of organic and the quality of these non-toxic polishes can vary from brand to brand. You can however, still make a healthier, non-toxic choice. We know it can be overwhelming trying to choose the right product when it comes to natural beauty so this post will provide you with a few things to look out for when it comes to choosing a natural polish.

A Water Base Polish

The majority of polishes on the shelf are chemical solvent-based products that have been linked to cancer as well as other health problems. However, a small (but growing!) number of companies offer polishes that are based in water instead of chemical solvents. A water-based polish like Acquarella* is 80% water and therefore avoids most of the chemicals found in regular nail polish. Water based nail polishes are the best choice for your health and the health of your nails. Switching from a regular mani-pedi to one that utilises a water based polish will actually moisturize your nails as some of the water in the polish soaks into the nail as it dries. Keep in mind that these polishes come with trade-offs in terms of application and longevity so be sure to ask!

The Big Bad Three

Years ago, these three chemicals appeared in nearly all nail polishes; however many brands have eliminated these toxic ingredients from their polish formula because of their harmful effects on our health. Avoid these whenever you can!

DBP

Also known as dibutyl phthalate, DBP adds flexibility and shine to a polish. It has been linked to reproductive and developmental problems.

Toluene

Toluene helps the polish to dry smoothly and maintain its colour. Also suspected to be a reproductive and developmental toxin, this solvent can affect the nervous system as well. This is the chemical that causes dizziness and headaches after you’ve spent too much time with the brush and bottle of polish in hand perfecting your manicure!

Formaldehyde

Yes, you read correctly. The same preservative no longer used in the medical field because it is a known carcinogen can also be found in some nail polishes. It is added to harden the nail but it can also cause cancer or irritation to the eyes, throat, nose and skin.

Acetone

Another chemical you should be aware of when looking into natural nail care is acetone. This solvent (which means it is able to dissolve other ingredients) is the main ingredient in your everyday nail polish remover. This substance is very drying to your nails, can be irritating to the eyes and throat and should only be used in a well-ventilated area to reduce fumes. As an alternative to acetone based removers, at Alma we offer a soy based nail polish remover that is hydrating, non-irritating and smells great!

Make sure to keep these tips in mind when purchasing a natural nail polish to satisfy that polish addiction and keep you and your nails happy and healthy!

FYI: We get a lot of inquiries about vegan nail polish. The answer to your question is that virtually all nail polishes are vegan. A substance made from fish scales can be used to create shimmery shades but because it derived from animals and expensive to produce, most companies use the vegan alternative known as mica. Nail polish is generally free of any animal products, but if you are interested in animal friendly products, make sure to check that the company does not test on animals.

At Alma, we currently use and have available for purchase, Aquarella & Zoya polishes in a selection of traditional colours and the latest favouries!

Today, we decided to write a blog post about some of our favourite ways to enjoy the outdoors in fall in Toronto.

First on our list is Evergreen Brickworks and its Saturday farmer’s markets. At this time of year, there is an abundance of local produce in Toronto. From apples and squash to various other root vegetables in season at this time of year, Brickworks is a great place to get fresh produce. There is also no shortage of fresh baked goods and local artisans, as well as a food court with a large variety of options. Evergreen Brickworks is a great place to check out on Saturday mornings. In addition to the Saturday market, there are walking trails, an eco-play area for kids, a café, and a short walk to a look out with a great view of the city. No matter how busy it is, Evergreen Brickworks always has a great atmosphere. It is a great place to meet your local farmers, pick up some fresh groceries, and have breakfast with friends or family.

Next on our list are all the beautiful places for a walk in nature around the city. High Park is an excellent choice. There are trails all throughout the park to enjoy the fall foliage, as well as an off-leash area for dogs, and there’s never a shortage of birds and other wildlife at Grenadier Pond. High Park also has lots for kids. The Jamie Bell Adventure Playground is absolutely fantastic, as are the numerous fields for a friendly game of soccer or playing catch. In addition to High Park, some of our other favourites are the boardwalk along the lake, Scarborough Bluffs, Sunnybrook Park and Edward Gardens, and a little bit of a drive away, Rouge River.

On milder fall days, bundling up and going for a bike ride is another way to get outside and get some fresh air while enjoying the scenery. Biking along the Don or Humber Rivers is always absolutely breathtaking, as is the Waterfront Trail. Along the rivers right now the valleys are ablaze with shades of orange, red, and yellow offering a stunning contrast to the rivers and grey fall skies. Another great place to bike or walk are the Toronto Islands. The islands are just a short ferry ride away and yet everything seems more relaxed. It’s like taking a breath of fresh air when you get there, and the views of the city skyline and sunsets can’t be beat. Going to the islands is a perfect urban escape and the laid back vibe makes it easy forget you’re still in the city.
Last, but certainly not least, let’s not forget about taking a trip to a pumpkin patch at this time of year! A great day for everyone in the family, it’s a throwback for many parents to their childhoods, and kids love all the activities and excitement! There are many pumpkin patches in the GTA, but a popular choice for families is Whittamore’s Farm. At Whittamore’s Farm, your family can pick your pumpkins, watch the pumpkin cannon fire, go on a wagon ride through the haunted forest, and one of our personal favourites, try and navigate your way through the corn maze. It’s a great way to get festive in the fall!

As much as many of us complain about the weather changing in the fall, it truly is a wonderful time of year! What are some of your favourite things to do to enjoy the fall weather in Toronto?