Categorie: ontspanning

DO HIMALAYAN SALT LAMPS HAVE PURIFYING EFFECTS?

Posted on by Fabienne


“A Himalayan salt lamp is a lamp made from a large piece of Himalayan salt, sourced from the Himalayan mountains. A hole is drilled into a salt chunk so that a lamp or tealight can be placed inside. These atmospheric lights are available in various shapes and sizes. The reason I have four Himalayan salt lamps in my house is mainly for the cosy natural atmosphere they create. However, the lamps are also said to have a ‘purifying’ effect. I’ve researched exactly how this works. Are you joining me?”

Ionization
An ionizer is a device that ionizes molecules. Ionization is the process in which an atom or molecule loses or gains an electron from its uncharged state. Ionizers produce a stream of charged particles (ion flow) in the air that cause dust particles in the environment to settle. In theory, this has a beneficial effect on air quality and may therefore affect health issues related to air quality, particularly asthma (De Meer, Duijm & Hall, 2010). Himalayan salt lamps are said to produce and subsequently release negatively charged ions into the air by heating the salt (through the lamp or candle). Research has shown that the amount of these ions is so low that it cannot be considered to have a similar positive effect (Ferreira, 2016).

Humidity
The air in your home contains moisture, known as humidity. Salt attracts water, so the salt lamp in your home draws in some of the humidity. Bacteria, allergens, and moulds present in the air are also drawn and attracted to the salt lamp, thereby “purifying” the air in your home. Salt doesn’t attract moisture, but the salt lamp consists of a molecular compound of NaCl (Sodium Chloride). The moisture in the air that comes into direct contact with it undergoes a chemical reaction. The H2O in the air that comes into contact with the salt lamp/NaCl undergoes a reaction. So, this would mean that only the moisture and bacteria floating around the salt lamp are attracted to it and purify that particular area of air.

So, if you want to completely “purify” the air in your home, you would need to stack quite a few salt lamps both horizontally and vertically so that the moisture in contact with the lamp can be attracted.

Just kidding! But if you do want to effectively purify the air in your home, you might consider investing in an air-purifying fan from Dyson, for example. Nonetheless, salt lamps remain very atmospheric, and that’s why I have them in my home. If you’re interested in getting a salt lamp yourself, I’ve listed some places below where you can buy them. However, it’s more fun to go to a store and choose one that you really like. Salt stones come in various types and sizes, and they are also reasonably affordable. The most popular variants are the tea light holders and the lamps.

Tip for the Rotterdam resident (or if you’re in Rotterdam): Pay a visit to Mystiek in Rotterdam at Schiedamse Vest 79 (Witte de Withkwartier). It’s a delightful store where you can find everything related to spirituality and health.

Sources:

de Meer, G., Duijm, F., Hall E. F. (2010) Ionisatoren en gezondheid. Geraadpleegd op 14 mei 2020 van: https://www.rivm.nl/bibliotheek/rapporten/609330004.pdf

Ferreira, M. (2016) Do Himalayan Salt Lamps Really Work? Geraadpleegd op 14 mei 2020 van: https://www.healthline.com/health/himalayan-salt-lamps

Do crystals have healing properties?

Posted on by paul

“I find gemstones beautiful, and as a result, my home is filled with them. I have crystals in the form of loose stones, bracelets, pendants, and salt lamps in abundance. Additionally, I’ve collected some interesting books about gemstones that explain their healing properties. However, at the same time, I wonder, does all of this hold true? Or are they just ‘woo-woo vibes’… if you catch my drift? My partner (who has a scientific mindset) and I decided to investigate this positive healing and powerful effect. Let’s start by looking at how these crystals are formed because regardless, this is simply factual.”

How are crystals formed?
Most clear crystals were formed millions of years ago deep within the earth. They originated from magma, which sometimes took millions of years to cool down. Eventually, crystals formed from this cooled magma. These crystals resembled ice, a buildup of tiny crystals that eventually formed a larger crystal. The colour of crystals is ultimately determined by impurities mixed in, such as metals, aluminium, and iron. Millions of years ago, due to tectonic shifts, these crystals were eventually pushed to the surface. This made the crystals “easier” for us to find. Often, these are volcanic areas where crystals can be found (All Stones, 2019).

The theory behind the healing effect
According to the holistic approach associated with energetic crystal therapy, the body, mind, and soul of a person together form a whole, a unique individual. The body, mind, and soul must be in balance with each other for someone to feel healthy and comfortable (Semoea, 2016). Okay, so far so good. The therapeutic effect of gemstones is based on the energy vibrations of these stones from nature. By wearing a gemstone, it is believed that the human aura would be positively influenced.

It is also said that a disease or complaint is usually caused by an abnormal frequency in the vibrations of an organ or area in the body. By wearing a particular stone (or combination of stones), the influence on complaints and/or diseases can often be significant and can then be significantly reduced. What is meant is that, for example, if you have a headache, abnormal vibrations have occurred in the body. A gemstone could restore these abnormal vibrations, thereby reducing your headache.

To understand the healing power of gemstones, it is necessary to know which substances are present in the stones. As mentioned earlier, impurities such as metals, aluminium, and iron are mixed in during the formation process of gemstones. When wearing a gemstone on the skin, the energy field (or aura) of the stone can transfer to the energy field of the wearer. In this way, the substances present in the stone can release their healing power (Aroma-atelier, 2005).

The wearing of patches on the skin is increasingly common nowadays to allow medication to penetrate. While this theory is scientifically proven, this method of gemstone therapy could theoretically have “healing” effects. Perhaps this also explains why Hematite might work well against anaemia, considering this stone is pure iron oxide and could potentially be released into the skin. If it were to work, then the dose one would “receive” cannot be determined anaemia is not always caused by iron deficiency (Mens en Gezondheid, 2015).

My conclusion
The healing effect of gemstone therapy has not yet been scientifically proven. It is assumed that the healing effect is more likely related to the placebo effect (Semoea, 2019). A placebo is a fake medicine. It can be an injection, pill, surgery, or another treatment without a direct medical effect (Niemandsverdriet, 2016). This mechanism likely applies to gemstones as well. When I put all the information side by side and analyze it, I am not convinced about the remarkable healing power that these stones supposedly offer us. Will I now throw away all my pounds of stones and stop wearing them as jewellery? Certainly not. I find them to be beautiful natural phenomena and especially cosy in my living room and on my bedside table.

With love, Fabienne

Do Jade Rollers Work?

Posted on by Fabienne

Some of you may have known about this facial roller (Gua Sha Roller) for years (which doesn’t surprise me, given that this roller dates back to the 7th century), but I only discovered this fun tool a few months ago: “The facial roller – made of Jade or Rose Quartz (a gemstone) – is a tool that is supposed to have relaxing effects”. It was used as a beauty tool by empresses in China to maintain the youthfulness of the skin. I see the roller popping up more and more with trendy, natural cosmetic brands. Small disclaimer: I have never used the roller, I am very sceptical but at the same time a little curious about its effectiveness. That’s why I delved into it. Are you ready to see if this facial roller is worth trying?

The functionality of the roller
If we are to believe the internet, the stone helps to firm the skin through gentle massage movements. It also assists in supporting the lymphatic system, a system in our body that removes waste products. Jade works Physically strong cleansing, balances various bodily systems, and removes toxins from the body. It is said to help reduce stress and tension in the body.

The roller is said to be good for:

  • improving skin elasticity;
  • reducing puffiness and fine lines;
  • relaxing facial muscle tension;
  • helping products to absorb better.

How to use the roller?
After cleansing your face with a cleanser and toner, apply some facial oil to your face. The oil helps the facial roller to glide easily over the skin, while the roller will enhance the absorption of the facial oil and amplify its benefits. When you place the roller in the refrigerator before use, this should provide an extra cooling effect.

My conclusion
Based on my own pragmatic view, knowledge, and the information I have read, I have come to the following conclusion: I think the roller does have a relaxing effect, but more so due to the movement and pressure exerted on the skin. Through the massaging movements, waste products are flushed out, the skin becomes more supple, and blood circulation is stimulated. However, these are the proven benefits commonly known from a massage. Whether the effect of the stone add value to these positive effects? I leave that question open. Will I use this roller myself in the future? Yes, why not? I think it certainly can’t hurt, even if only for relaxation.

Where to buy?

Herbivore (€34,68)

Bol.com (verschillende aanbieders) 

Coucou Jade Roller (€35,-)

With love, Fabienne

Bron 1: Mens-en-gezondheid, 2018. Wat zijn de voordelen van massage voor de gezondheid?. Geraadpleegd op: https://mens-en-gezondheid.infonu.nl/beauty/109346-wat-zijn-de-voordelen-van-massage-voor-de-gezondheid.html

Bron 2: Herbivore, 2018. Jade Facial Roller. Geraadpleegd op: https://www.herbivorebotanicals.com/collections/all/products/new-jade-facial-roller

The balance between body mind and soul.

Posted on by Fabienne

What has been occupying my mind lately is how our brain influences our body. Psychology has always caught my attention, understanding how our brain functions and its impact on our body and the people around us. That’s why I watched the documentary “Heal” on Netflix, and I found it super inspiring. In this documentary, spiritual leaders, doctors, and people with chronic illnesses discuss the strong connection between the human psyche and physical health. According to these individuals, we have more control over our health and our lives than we think. The documentary showcases the beauty and uniqueness of the human body and its ability to heal itself.

The placebo effect was also briefly discussed. Take two groups of 100 people, both with, for example, headaches. Give one group a pain-relieving medication and give the other group a saline solution (a placebo). The test was conducted blindly. The results showed that both groups ultimately experienced significant relief from their pain. While for one group, this may have been due to the pain-relieving medication, what about the other group? This immediately got me thinking about how this applies to skincare. It’s quite interesting to delve deeper into, don’t you think?

After some Googling, I found an article indicating that through an approach like the one described above, patients with the skin disease psoriasis were ultimately able to use half the amount of steroid cream.

It has been shown that stress has a huge impact on our bodies. I think we can all say that we have dealt with this at some point. For everyone, this manifests differently, of course; some get stomach cramps, others get pimples, and still others experience hair loss. These are all ailments that we may be able to control if we train ourselves to do so. I’ve previously written a column in the NTVH about becoming more aware of your “beauty rituals” or maybe just being more mindful of the things we do. Although it’s difficult in a society where everything moves at a rapid pace, I try to be more conscious of it myself.

As I mentioned earlier, the human brain has always fascinated me. When the book “The Secret” came out, my mother quickly got it and enthusiastically told my brother and me about certain theories and how much more possibilities life can offer you when you apply the “law of attraction” in your life. Many of these theories have stuck with me. It’s a topic that has been occupying me more and more over the past few months, so I think you’ll read more of these thoughts on my blog in the future and how you can apply them. I’m convinced that when you feel good about yourself, you’ll also radiate that. So, the last thing I want to leave you within this blog is to watch the documentary and let it sink in. I’m curious to hear what you think about it!

With love, Fabienne

Bron: Radar, 2016. Het placebo-effect: positief resultaat na ‘nep-behandeling’. Geraadpleegd op: https://radar.avrotros.nl/hulp-tips/hulpartikelen/item/het-placebo-effect-positief-resultaat-na-nep-behandeling/

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