The appearance of our face is directly related to the way we feel. Our face captures and stores daily fatigue, upset and emotions that we project outwardly in the way that we look. Research shows that frowning can make us unhappier and treatments that prevent frowning correlate with reduced negative mood.
Although Botox – currently a suggested treatment for depression – paralyses the frown muscles and limits facial expression of negative emotions that may consequently introduce a more positive mood, this action may not be always desirable in a social contact. Our emotions are controlled by our facial expressions: recent imaging studies have shown that imitation of facial expressions is associated with brain activity. Botox of frown muscles limits angry facial expressions and thus enables us to give a false signal. Given that people tend to mimic the emotional expressions of others, this may impact on the trust in the relationship.
- Facial massage is a great alternative to Botox. It increases circulation and lymphatic drainage; it also impacts on skin turnover and collagen production by fibroblasts. It is an essential therapy not only for the face but also for our wellbeing.
- Relaxation, a learned response, in a healing and meditative atmosphere during the treatment, significantly enhances both the immediate and visible benefit of facial massage that entails reduced appearance of lines, wrinkles and sagging due to lifting, plumping up and smoothing effects.
“In our slightly touch-deprived society, any form of massage is very beneficial. Within massage, it is important to relax the mind, to switch off the intellect and focus on the pure sensation of touch.”
Source:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18562330 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19250162