Spring is the time for cleansing, movement, growth, and renewal, and is the season associated with the wood element - one of the five elements in classical Chinese philosophy. 

​

After the inward focused stillness of winter - the most yin time of the year - comes the dynamic expansion of yang wood energy reflected in the thousands of plants that burst back to life this time of year.

In spring, our own wood energy begins to emerge and rise up like the trees beginning to bud and blossom. We can harness the power of spring to root down, rise up and usher in a fresh new experience of health, well-being and glowing skin.

​

If wood energy is out of balance – too much or too little - we might experience feelings of ungroundedness, frustration and agitation, depression and lethargy, and sleep issues. In the body we might experience tension, headaches, dizziness, digestive issues. In the face, we can see signs of heat -redness, dry skin, acne and rashes, bloodshot eyes, or stagnation such as tension, puffiness or dull looking skin.

​

The focus of this season’s facial is therefore on release, smooth circulation, soothing irritation, and renewal for both skin cells and wider wellbeing.

In Chinese medicine the face connects to the body via the meridian system, and imbalances in the face are reflections of general health. Nourishing the face therefore benefits the rest of the self and vice versa.

​

Our hard-working faces express and receive experience and emotion, house all the senses, and often hold a lot of tension. Releasing tension, encouraging circulation, and caring for the skin through gentle nourishing practices and ingredients, invites compassion, calm and a new perspective for viewing aging and appearance.​

​

The mind-body connection couldn't be clearer than on our faces, and I deeply believe that by caring for our faces with loving kindness we create pathways of self love that travel far deeper than the surface of the skin to our very bones and subtle realms of the psyche.​

Inspired by eastern practices of self care using natural, everyday, affordable ingredients, we will cleanse, scrub, steam, mask, spritz and massage using a gentle oil and self-acupressure.

​

For the evening it’s a chance to be present, engage the senses, find some calm, and nourish ourselves in a friendly and non-judgemental space.

​

Expect soft skin, a delight for the senses, connection, inspiration, and lots of smiles.​

Anyone with a face! If you are interested in affordable and easy ways to care for your skin gently and naturally, with a deeper sense of health and longevity in mind, then this is for you.

Particularly suited to women, all ages welcome.

​

If you have any food allergies or skin sensitivites, please let me know.

Things might get a little messy! So wear an old t shirt and bring a towel and hair band.

​

Otherwise just bring yourself and a willingness to smear food on your faces!

All ingredients will be supplied.

I've practised acupuncture, facial acupuncture and eastern facial practices for 17+ years. For many years I organised and assisted with the teaching of post-graduate facial acupuncture and acupressure courses with world-renowned New York based trainer Virginia Doran.

I've completed additional training in Eastern facial therapies including facial cupping, gua sha, jade roller and acupressure techniques at the College of Oriental Therapy in London.

I have also completed a month long Ayurvedic health and skincare qualification in Kerala, India which included lots of lovely herbal facials.

​

Over the years, I’ve facilitated many mindful and wellbeing workshops and retreats privately and for charities inluding Kids Company and Survivors Network. 

The DIY facial group started when I managed a therapy centre for young people in Brixton over 10 years ago. I ran a popular Friday evening mindful facial group for teenage girls called “that Friday feeling”.

After relocating to the south coast I took the facial session to Survivors Network in Brighton where I ran monthly mornings for women and girls who have experienced sexual violence.

Mindful facial care is a beautiful and gentle way to encourage the healing process and reintegration of mind and body. 

​

“I’m usually so critical of my face and body. After years of low self-worth I try not to look at myself at all or I get obsessed by one tiny spot, but today I quite like my face!. And I haven't laughed like that in ages!” (Survivors Network group participant)