With the changing of the seasons, there comes a change in the way our bodies respond to the external conditions. Summer calls for sunny beach day protection; whilst transitioning into autumn, then winter, calls for an increase in vitamins and minerals, rest and intentionality all around- including the products we decide to use on our skin and consume through the food we eat. So, with the changing of the seasons, our circadian rhythms yearn for routine, constant sleep and the gradual change to eating warmer, nourishing plates of food. Everything starts to slow down, making space for winter that will follow. And if our bodies are so sensitive to these changes, are we reacting in a way that mirrors what is going on internally?
Let’s start by understanding what is really going on. As the seasons transition, a decrease in daylight and increase in cooler temperatures come into play- thank goodness, because although I am a summer-girl, these hot South African days can be torturous.
Ever heard of the suprachiasmatic nucleus? Not really the supercalafragalistic, but simply, the SCN. Well, this is a structure located at the front surface of the hypothalamus, an area in our brain that produces hormones that regulate body temperature, heart rate and hunger. Furthermore, it is basically our clockmaster- regulating our circadian timing system and circadian rhythms in the body [1].
Key changes in our bodies may include an increase melatonin (the sleep hormone), released via the pineal gland when signaled by the brain to do so. A reduce in serotonin (the “happy” hormone), a slowing of the metabolism and a craving for more nutrient-dense foods (fibres, carbs, proteins- all the good stuff), etc. are all similar changes our bodies experiences as our circadian rhythms adapt with the changing seasons.
Honouring these changes are not always easy, as our “busy lives” demand us to be busy all the time, never making space to slow down as the seasons slow down too. Waking up and going to bed with the sun seems ineffective, and simply out of reach. We are told “eat healthy food”, “exercise 30 minutes a day”, “sleep 9 hours a night”, all seemingly unattainable- and a sense of failure creeps in.
But, starting small, working on improving these new rhythms 1% every day- is 30% in a month, 365% in a year. New habits take time, they take self-control, discipline and patience, and more often than not, we miss the point completely. That is where grace comes into play- prioritizing excellence, not perfection.
Zooming into skincare for a moment, let’s take a look at our skin. Starting at the stratum corneum, better known as the skin barrier- the outermost layer of the epidermis- basically the defense system protecting us against environmental stressors, infections, allergens, sealing in moisture, and acting as an immune defense [2]. This thin wall prevents the penetration of harmful environmental toxins and pathogens that may have adverse effects on the inside of our bodies. Overall, this skin barrier is essential for overall health and may also directly be affecting proper bodily function.
Various diseases or hormonal imbalances (underlying, or diagnosed), may cause a change in the natural acidic environment of the skin, causing it to become less acidic, leading the way for harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses to grow [3].
Common signs that the skin barrier has been damaged includes stinging/ burning when using certain products, itchy skin, dryness, inflammation, sudden breakouts or acne and/ or slow healing [4]. Harsh cleansers and other skincare care products, unknowingly filled with toxins, play a fundamental role in these symptoms. But let’s not also overlook the role that internal health, hormones, emotions and trauma could also play. Before taking a step into consulting a doctor, therapist or naturalist, I would suggest first consulting with the ultimate Healer and Provider. A life surrendered to the Father, Creator God, means even surrendering the way we do the seemingly mundane, like caring for our skin.
So, where to start, this all may seem incredibly overwhelming, or maybe something you have never considered before. Like mentioned before, 1% better every day, 365% in a year. Start simple- start by replacing conventional moisturisers, filled with “hidden toxins” such as octocrylene (so called SPF moisturisers), benzylparaben (and other parabens), phthalates, petroleum-based ingredients with essential oil combinations- simple, wholesome ingredients.
The following oils (also widely spoken about in the Bible) helps soothe inflammation, seal in moisture and/ or helps promote cell regeneration- promoting similar properties as the synthetic ingredients, just without the hormone-disrupting, skin-intoxicating side-effects:
Frankincense essential oil: the “King of Oils” (called so by Dr Josh Axe), due to its age-old royal status as a gift for kings. It is known for its ability to help heal chronic inflammation, such as eczema. The Calming Moisturiser contains organic Rosehip and Pomegranate oils, Hyaluronic Acid and organic Lavender, Chamomile, Neroli and Frankincense Essential oils- this is a great combination as it is light formulation that moisturises, calms, not further damaging the skin barrier.
Lavender flower oil: a sweet, aromatic oil known for its versatility, anti-inflammatory properties and formation as an anti-microbial barrier. The Radiance Moisturiser contains a synergistic mixture of Pomegranate seed oil, Rose hip oil, Frankincense, Neroli flower and Lavender essential oils, aiding in moisturising and hydrating- that may help feed skin to have a natural glow and radiance.
Myrrh essential oil: widely known as a “sacred oil”, being even more highly esteemed than gold along ancient trade routes. It is both antifungal, antibacterial. The Restoring Hand Cream is a rich blend of carrier oils and Lavender and Myrrh essential oils that gently restore, soothe and calm dry, sensitive, eczema prone or damaged skin.
It is no mystery that when these essential oils are mixed and matched with other essential oils, they work synergistically to create products that are not only pure, natural and organic, but inspire small gradual moves to a more holistic skincare approach.
With small, consistent changes in our skincare routines, diets, exercise habits- our bodies start to feel more safe, heartrates return to normal, breathing slows, inflammation calms down. We start to notice that our sleep improves, our energy levels stay more constant, hunger signals are more consistent, and cortisol drops. Our bodies sync to the changing season, mimicking the restful pace that is now taking its place. No hurry, no anxiety. The ability to say “no” to destructive habits, and “yes” to the rhythms of the season of autumn.
Be sure to stay tuned and connected, because on social platforms, in the next month, Origin Living will take you through a journey of anti-ageing, possible immune boosting and skin soothing products and habits. Let’s take the step together to pursue Pure. Natural. Organic. lives that go back to God’s design.
