FACE MASK
David Allerton Founder
Founder’s Letter
I am thrilled to welcome you to SE-LF; a business that is passionate about creating high-quality skincare experiences that are good for your mind, body and the planet
Unlocking the Power of Self-Care through Skincare
We understand that skincare experiences can be so much more than just a way to improve the appearance of your skin. Skincare is heavily based around the concept of “ritual” and the products are sensory nature, this offers an excellent opportunity to practise mindfulness, be present in the moment and improve mental health.
At SE-LF, we believe that self-care should never feel “selfish”. That’s why we strive to provide a range of self-care boxes that feature handpicked products, packaged in environmentally sustainable ways. We are also Carbon Neutral Certified, through our reforestation partnerships that saw us plant over 700 trees in 2023 alone, the equivalent of 3 acres. So, you can feel good about using our
products.
We are passionate about providing our customers with the tools they need to take care of themselves, both physically and mentally. Our self-care boxes are curated with this in mind. Each contain both this magazine, as well as an audio guide (available via our website, YouTube & Spotify) to not only explain the products, but also lead you through relaxation techniques.
We believe our experiences will provide you with moments of mindfulness and self-care that allow you to reset and recharge.
At SE-LF, we are committed to doing good and being good; not just for ourselves but for the planet and the people around us. We invite you to explore our products and take the first step towards prioritising your self-care.
What’s in the Box?
Inside you will find 5 carefully handpicked products which have been brought together into a self-care experience designed to help you refresh your skin and calm your mind.
Before you start:
- We suggest you read The Face Mask Experience Hints & Tips (Page 6)
- The Step-by-Step Guide (Page 8) has a QR code link to the Guided Audio, which is also available via the website www.se-lf.co.uk, or search “SE-LF” on Spotify or YouTube.
Antioxidant Facial Serum
A 100% natural blend of extracts that keeps your skin nourished and protected
See Page 16
Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum
Crafted to rejuvenate your skin and give you a velvetysmooth complexion
See Page 18
Vitamin C Facial Serum
An illuminating elixir crafted to revive, energise and brighten your skin
See Page 20
Reusable Silicone Face Mask
This face mask redefines sustainability, offering a greener alternative to traditional single-use masks
See Page 22
Black Obsidian Facial Roller
Formed from ancient lava flows, this sustainable Facial Roller boasts remarkable spiritual and skincare benefits.
See Page 24
30| Mastering Your Breath
26| Creating a Carbon Neutral Business
The FACE MASK Experience Hints & Tips
Give yourself some “Me Time”, refresh your skin and calm your mind. It’s time to focus on you! Here are some helpful hints and tips to get you started:
Self-care is essential for maintaining good mental and physical health. It is important to take time out of our busy schedules to nurture and care for ourselves. A self-care experience can be an enriching and rewarding way to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Here are some hints and tips to get the most from your experience:
Use our guided audio to help you regulate your experience as well as telling you what to do with the products. It will remind you to stay present and focus on mindfulness practices. The guided audio will help you to fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy it to it’s upmost.
Create the right setting as this is crucial for a successful self-care experience. Set aside some time, for this experience we recommend 20-30 minutes, to fully immerse yourself. Put on some calming background music or follow along with our guided audio to help set the mood. Turn your phone to silent and use soft lighting if possible
Be present and focus on the experience, as this will help you to truly relax. It is easy to get lost in our day-to-day thoughts, but it’s important to stay present and mindful during this time. Notice the textures of the products, feel the coolness of the roller on your skin, and enjoy the sense of calm. By remaining focused on the experience, you will reap the
maximum benefits of the selfcare session. Use relaxation techniques to help promote a sense of wellbeing. To help with this, we have provided a guide on page 10 which we recommend reading before doing your experience.
Chill your products. If you have access to a fridge, place all of your items inside and cool for a minimum of an hour. before use. Cooling them helps boost their anti-inflammatory effects and increase the sensory nature of the experience. The serums may become slightly thicker when cooled, but they will spread just as easily once in contact with the skin.
The product can also be stored in the fridge between uses, so it’s always chilled for next time.
Return your bottles and packaging. You can request a free return of your empty bottles, packaging or items at any time by visiting www.se-lf.co.uk.
This allows us the clean and sterilise the glass bottles for reuse, whilst ensuring all the other components are recycled properly.
Please feel free to keep any of the items, we just ask that you don’t throw them away.
If you enjoy this experience, to find out more or to buy another of our boxes, please visit: www.se-lf.co.uk
The FACE MASK Experience Step by Step
Ensure your face to clean, removing any make-up, sunscreen, sweat or natural oils which may have built up on the skin
Select your desired serum:
Antioxidant: Great for nourishing all skin types
Hyaluronic Acid: The hero for an intense blast of hydration
Vitamin C: Ideal for energising and brightening your skin
We have provided more detailed information on each on pages 14 to 21
You can even use multiple serums at once to target specific areas of your face. For example, Hyaluronic on areas of dryness, Vitamin C on the rest of your face to enhance brightness & Anti-oxidant across your neck and decolletage for skin nutrition
Using the pipette or finger, apply a liberal amount of your desired serum to your face, avoiding the area around your eyes and any areas of sensitised or broken skin. There should be enough serum so that your skin feels wet to touch. It shouldn’t all absorb straight into the skin
Place the silicone face mask over the top of the serum and secure behind your ears. The mask is flexible, so should remain in place without feeling uncomfortable
The mask can be left on for 10-20mins
We recommend the full 20 minutes and use this time for the relaxation techniques provided on pages 10 to 13, or listen along to the audio guide via the QR Code
Remove the mask
Use the facial roller to you help the skin absorb any remaining serum left on the skin. Facial rolling has many additional benefits from smoothing frown lines to reducing puffiness and we highly recommend you follow the facial roller map on the adjacent page..
Cleaning & Storage
To clean the silicone mask: simply rinse under warm water. Use your fingertips to help remove any serum left on the mask whilst rinsing. Lay the mask open and leave it to dry.
All your items can be stored in either a fridge or cool dry place until your next use. The serums must be used within 6 months after opening.
Facial Roller Map
SMOOTH FROWN AND FOREHEAD LINES
LIFT EYEBROWS
REDUCE FINE LINES
SOFTEN AND SMOOTH SMILE LINES
FIRM AND CONTOUR JAWLINE
LIFT AND FIRM CHIN
EASE BROW TENSION
TIGHTEN AND SMOOTH NECK AREA
REDUCE PUFFINESS AND DARK CIRCLES
FIRM AND CONTOUR
EASE FACIAL CONTOUR
EASE NECK TENSION
Relaxation Techniques
In our modern lives, feeling stressed and overwhelmed has become all too common. We often find ourselves longing for respite from the constant demands and pressures. The good news is that within each of us lies the ability to access a profound sense of calm and inner peace. By dedicating just a few minutes each day to practicing these relaxation techniques, you can create a haven of tranquility amidst the chaos.
Throughout this guide, we will dive into the essence of each technique, providing you with clear and concise step-by-step instructions. Whether you are a beginner or someone familiar with relaxation practices, you will discover new insights and practical tools to unwind, reduce stress, and cultivate a state of optimal wellbeing.
So, take a deep breath, release any tension, and allow yourself to fully engage in this transformative journey towards a more relaxed and centered self. Get ready to embrace these powerful relaxation techniques and unlock the secrets to a balanced and rejuvenated life. Let’s begin!
Whilst the products inside this box make a wonderful experience by themselves, making sure you take time to be present and maximise your relaxation through additional mental and physical techniques really elevates this to the next level.
We have included 3 simple techniques that boost relaxation and mindfulness whilst you wait for the face mask to do it’s magic
Box Breathing
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often neglect the power of our breath as a tool for relaxation and self-regulation. Box Breathing is a simple yet profound technique that involves controlled and deliberate breathing patterns, enabling us to find balance and tranquility within, harnessing the power of your breath to harmonise your body and mind. This technique calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety, and enhances mental clarity, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with a grounded and centered presence.
Let’s explore how to practice Box Breathing: Find a comfortable position and gently close your eyes.
Step 1: Inhale deeply and slowly through your nose, counting to four as you fill your lungs and notice the sensation of your chest rising
Step 2: Hold your breath for a count of four, embracing the pause
Step 3: Exhale slowly and steadily through your mouth, counting to four and notice your chest falling
Step 4: Hold your breath for another count of four
Repeat this rhythmic pattern for several counts, noticing how your body and mind relax each time
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Physical tension often accompanies our daily stresses, leading to discomfort, stiffness, and a sense of unease. Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a technique that enables us to systematically release tension from our muscles, promoting profound relaxation and a sense of rejuvenation. Let’s explore how to practice PMR:
Find a comfortable position, relax your body and gently close your eyes
Step 1: Focus your attention on a specific muscle group, start with your toes and your feet.
Step 2: Tense the muscles in that area, squeezing them tightly for about 5-10 seconds, sensing the tension building.
Step 3: Suddenly release the tension, allowing the muscles to relax completely, feeling a wave of soothing relief wash over them.
Step 4: Progressively move on to the next muscle group, working your way up through your body, from your feet to your face
Step 5: Take your time with each muscle group, noticing any subtle changes in sensation and consciously releasing any lingering tension.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation brings about a heightened sense of body awareness and empowers you to consciously release tension stored within your muscles. By practicing PMR regularly, you can enjoy enhanced physical relaxation, improved sleep, and an overall sense of wellbeing.
Simple Mindfulness Practice
Close your eyes gently and bring your attention to the present moment. Notice the sensations within yourself, the weight of your body on the chair or cushion, or the feeling of contact between your feet and the ground.
Now, shift your focus to your thoughts. Instead of engaging with them or attempting to push them away, simply observe them as if they were passing clouds in the sky. Allow them to come and go without judgment or attachment.
Next, redirect your attention to the sounds around you. Listen to the symphony of noises, whether it’s the distant hum of traffic, the gentle rustling of leaves, or the soft melody of birdsong. Embrace the sounds as they arise and fade away, allowing them to become a soothing backdrop to your experience.
As you continue to sit in stillness, become aware of any bodily sensations that may arise. Notice any areas of tension, discomfort, or warmth. Observe these sensations without trying to change or fix them, simply accepting them as part of your present experience. Throughout this practice, remind yourself that relaxation comes from embracing the stillness within, regardless of external circumstances. Allow yourself to release any expectations or judgments about how you should feel or what the experience should be like.
The Facial Serums
Unlock the secret to radiant, rejuvenated skin with our collection of UK-Made and VeganFriendly serums – the perfect complement to our Silicone Mask. Serums serve as the backbone of any skincare regimen, delivering a concentrated dose of active ingredients that work wonders for your complexion. Designed to penetrate deeply, our lightweight formulations ensure that your skin absorbs these hero ingredients more effectively than traditional moisturizers or tonics, unleashing their full potential for transformative results.
Whether your skin craves intense hydration, radiant luminosity, or revitalizing antioxidants, our serums offer targeted solutions to address a range of concerns. From the plumping prowess of hyaluronic acid to the brightening benefits of vitamin C, each serum is meticulously crafted to cater to your skin’s unique needs. When paired with our silicone mask, these potent formulations are able to penetrate even deeper, amplifying their efficacy and ensuring that your skin receives maximum nourishment and care.
But the beauty of serums doesn’t stop there – it’s entirely possible to layer multiple serums beneath the same mask, allowing you to customize your skincare routine and target specific areas with precision. Whether you’re looking to smooth fine lines, banish dark spots, or quench parched skin, our serums make it easy to achieve your skincare goals simultaneously. By layering serums, you can enjoy smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin in one simple step, without the need for a complicated skincare routine.
So why settle for mediocre skincare when you can indulge in the luxurious benefits of our serums? Elevate your beauty ritual with our potent formulations and our Silicone Mask, and discover the radiant, luminous complexion you’ve always dreamed of.
Antioxidant Facial Serum
“ Antioxidants such as anthocyanins and ellagic acid, help protect your body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer”
Dr Michael Mosley
Embark on a journey to rejuvenate your skin with a facial serum crafted to deliver instant hydration and protection, catering to all skin types. This serum boasts a 100% natural blend of extracts that keeps your skin nourished and shielded from the elements. Let’s delve into the benefits of it’s key ingredients:
Grape Seed Oil takes the spotlight with its antioxidant-rich composition and abundance of linoleic acid, championing a healthy complexion. Deeply hydrating, it diminishes the appearance of fine lines, leaving your face with a radiant, youthful glow.
Sunflower Seed Oil, brimming with essential fatty acids, acts as a natural emollient, locking in moisture and promoting a silkysmooth skin texture. Its lightweight formula ensures your skin drinks in the hydration sans any greasy residue, perfect for daily use.
Jojoba Seed Oil, celebrated for its resemblance to the skin’s natural oils, strikes a delicate balance in oil production, warding off dryness and excessive sebum. Gentle yet potent, it bestows a velvety softness upon your complexion.
Raspberry Seed Oil emerges as a superhero in the fight against free radicals, thanks to its bounty of essential fatty acids and antioxidants. With natural sun protection properties, it fortifies your skin against environmental stressors, a steadfast guardian in your skincare arsenal.
Kiwi Seed Oil, a nutrient-packed wonder, brims with vitamins C and E, igniting skin brightening and collagen production. Bid farewell to dullness as it infuses elasticity and vibrancy into your complexion.
Watermelon Seed Oil, the epitome of hydration, sinks effortlessly into the skin, drenching it with moisture. Enriched with amino acids and vitamins, it revives and rejuvenates, unveiling a refreshed, radiant visage that emanates from within.
Tocopherol, or Vitamin E, stands as a formidable antioxidant, safeguarding your skin from environmental harm. Its protective prowess maintains skin elasticity, combats inflammation, and bolsters overall skin vitality.
Hyaluronic Acid Facial Serum
Behold our hydration powerhouse! This skincare marvel is crafted to rejuvenate and replenish your skin, giving you a velvetysmooth complexion. Infused with the hydrating prowess of hyaluronic acid, alongside the nurturing benefits of vitamin B5 and an array of fruit extracts, this serum is a game-changer in your skincare routine. Let’s delve into the distinct advantages of each key ingredient in this revitalising concoction.
Hyaluronic Acid takes centre stage as our moisture maestro. With its remarkable capacity to retain up to 1000 times its weight in water, it ensures that your skin remains thoroughly hydrated, plump, and supple. Bid farewell to dryness as this powerhouse ingredient creates a reservoir of moisture, ensuring your skin stays quenched and radiant.
Vitamin B5 emerges as an essential ally for skin health, offering soothing and moisturising properties. It plays a pivotal role in refining skin texture, alleviating redness, and fostering a luminous complexion. With vitamin B5, your skin not only stays hydrated but also receives a nurturing boost, leaving it revitalised and refreshed.
Cranberry Fruit Extract enters the scene with its antioxidant-rich profile, providing a shield of protection for your skin. Combating free radicals, it wards off premature aging signs, unveiling a smoother, more resilient complexion. Consider this extract your secret weapon for maintaining youthful vibrancy.
Grapefruit Fruit Extract adds a zesty punch to the formula, invigorating both your senses and your skin. Renowned for its brightening prowess, it diminishes the appearance of dark spots, promoting an even skin tone. Embrace a radiant complexion that reflects your inner vitality, thanks to this revitalising extract.
Raspberry Fruit Extract rounds off our lineup, boasting a treasure trove of vitamins and antioxidants. Nourishing and safeguarding your skin, contributing to a youthful visage, leaving your complexion revitalised and aglow with vibrancy.
Vitamin C Facial Serum
Enter a world of luminosity with our Vitamin C Face Serum – an illuminating elixir crafted to revive and energise your skin. This serum boasts a potent fusion of ingredients, featuring Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel, and the powerhouse Vitamin C. Let’s delve into the remarkable benefits of each key component:
Vitamin C is like a radiant beam of sunlight that floods your skin with brightness. Not only does it stimulate collagen production (which is like the scaffolding that keeps your skin firm and plump), but it also fights off those pesky dark spots, revealing a complexion that’s as luminous as it is youthful. Imagine waking up to skin that’s not only smooth and firm but also glowing from within, like a beacon of health and vitality.
Aloe Vera Leaf Powder is like a soothing balm for your skin, wrapping it in a comforting embrace that banishes redness and irritation. Imagine sinking into a soft, cloud-like cocoon where every touch feels like a gentle caress. Not only does it calm your skin’s temper tantrums, but it also ensures that your skin stays hydrated and supple, like a refreshing sip of water on a hot summer’s day.
Witch Hazel, your skin’s natural hero against enlarged pores. Teaming up with Vitamin C, Witch Hazel helps to refine pores, giving your skin a smoother, more even texture. It’s like magic for your complexion, tightening and toning for a youthful glow.
Cranberry Fruit Extract, packed with powerful antioxidants. It’s like putting a shield around your skin, protecting it from the stresses of the environment. When combined with Vitamin C, it enhances that radiant glow, leaving your skin looking fresh and shielded.
Bilberry Fruit Extract, a skincare superhero in its own right. With its rich anthocyanins, it works wonders for your skin, soothing and nourishing it with botanical goodness. It’s like giving your skin a healthy, nourishing snack!
Grapefruit Fruit Extract adds a refreshing twist to your skincare routine. Not only does it smell amazing, but it also boosts the brightening effects of the serum. Say hello to revitalised and healthy-looking skin that’s ready to take on the day!
Reusable & 100% Recyclable Silicone Face Mask
Revolutionise Your Skincare Routine with EcoConscious Innovation
Step into the future of skincare sustainability with our Reusable Silicone Face Mask – a groundbreaking beauty accessory engineered not only to rejuvenate your skin but also to champion environmental responsibility. Crafted from 100% recyclable silicone, this mask isn’t just a skincare tool; it’s a statement of our dedication to the planet’s well-being. Let’s explore the eco-friendly features of this silicone marvel and uncover the remarkable impact it has on reducing carbon emissions.
Now, let’s delve into the numbers. Brace yourself –it’s estimated that a staggering 1 million single-use sheet masks are discarded every day. Yes, you read that correctly – a whopping 1 million masks, every day. However, unlike its disposable counterparts, our silicone mask offers a sustainable solution. Simply wash and reuse it for your next time, eliminating the cycle of
disposables destined for landfill. By opting for our reusable silicone alternative, you not only save money in the long run but also significantly diminish your carbon footprint. It’s a small change with monumental repercussions, aligning seamlessly with the principles of conscientious living.
But our commitment to sustainability doesn’t stop there – far from it. Our face mask is meticulously crafted from 100% recyclable silicone, ensuring that its eco-conscious ethos extends beyond mere reusability. When its skincare journey reaches its conclusion, the mask can be recycled alongside your other household recyclables, completing its lifecycle in an environmentally responsible manner. This closed-loop approach minimises waste and environmental degradation, making it the discerning choice for individuals who prioritize both skincare efficacy and ecological integrity.
In a world where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discourse, our Reusable Silicone Face Mask offers a tangible way to merge skincare excellence with sustainable stewardship. Join us in embracing a future where beauty isn’t just skin-deep – it’s deeply rooted in environmental mindfulness and respect for our planet’s precious resources.
“
Named after the Roman explorer, Obsidius, who discovered volcanic glass in ancient Ethiopia” Oxford Dictionary
Black Obsidian Facial Roller
Discover the allure of a beauty tool steeped in both history and natural wonder. Crafted from volcanic glass born of ancient lava flows, Black Obsidian transcends mere mineral status; it embodies purity and serves as a guardian against negativity.
Across millennia, civilisations revered Black Obsidian for its spiritual and healing attributes. Its deep ebony hue evokes a sense of enigmatic protection, believed to absorb negative energies, impurities, and toxins.
Forged through the intense fusion of molten volcanic lava meeting icy ocean waters, Black Obsidian emerges with a sleek, glass-like texture, devoid of complex chemical structures. This natural process not only bestows upon it a distinctive elegance but also ensures its sustainability. Unlike traditional mining practices, the formation of Black Obsidian is an ongoing geological phenomenon, removing the need for deep surface excavation and minimising environmental impact. Each time you use the Black Obsidian Facial Roller, you can do so with a clear conscience, knowing that its origins align with your commitment to eco-conscious living.
But the appeal of the Black Obsidian Facial Roller extends far beyond its origins and sustainability. This captivating tool offers a myriad of skincare benefits that elevate your beauty ritual to new heights. Its cool, smooth surface glides effortlessly across your skin, gently stimulating lymphatic drainage and reducing puffiness, revealing a complexion that’s as radiant as it is rejuvenated. The rolling motion promotes increased blood circulation, delivering vital nutrients to your skin cells and imparting a luminous, healthy glow. Moreover, as it melts away facial tension and stress, the Black Obsidian Facial Roller becomes a cherished ritual of self-care, leaving you with a profound sense of relaxation and wellbeing.
Incorporating the Black Obsidian Facial Roller into your skincare routine is a transformative experience. By enhancing the absorption of serums and oils, it magnifies their efficacy, ensuring that every drop nourishes and revitalises your skin from within. Embrace the mystical allure of Black Obsidian and unveil the radiant, luminous complexion that lies beneath.
Creating a Carbon Neutral Business
SE-LF partners with Carbon Neutral Britain & One Tree Planted: planting over 700 trees in 2023, the equivalent to 3 acres of reforestation
As the devastating effects of climate change continue to worsen, we believe it is increasingly important that every individual, company, organisation, and government plays their part in addressing the global crisis. From the very beginning we have been taking steps to minimise our impact on the environment, and even do good for the planet. We aim to make every decision we take as environmentally minded as possible; whether this be our reusable components, our unlaminated FSC certified card boxes, our biodegradable labels or our non-toxic vegetable inks.
But we also wanted to go one step further and we are proud to announce our partnership with Carbon Neutral Britain & One Tree Planted that saw us plant
over 700 trees during 2023 in sustainable projects both in Britain and around the world. This is equivalent to 3 acres of reforestation and resulted in 120 tonnes of CO2e being removed from the atmosphere.
Commitment to carbon neutrality is becoming increasingly important as our planet continues to warm due to increased carbon dioxide (CO2e) emissions. By planting trees and funding carbon offsetting projects, we can remove and prevent further CO2e emissions around the globe.
Planting trees is widely recognised as one of the most sustainable ways to offset carbon emissions. Forest projects absorb CO2, refract the earth’s heat, and have a positive impact on wildlife, ecology, and biodiversity.
Carbon Neutral Britain is committed to spending up to 10% of its budget on carbon offsetting or sustainable treeplanting projects in Britain, for Britain. For example, the Richmondshire Wood project, located in Whashton Wood just outside the Yorkshire
“ We believe Carbon Offsetting is the answer to the
climate crisis - as the cheapest and most effective way to make a difference - fast. Through our projects and offsetting initiatives, our aim is to inspire and educate Britain to make a difference”
Carbon Neutral Britain
Dales national park and around four miles from Richmond, will see 4,000 trees planted to create a broadleaf woodland with panoramic views of Richmondshire and a vital habitat for wildlife. The trees planted in this project will be native species, including Sessile Oak, Alder, Bird Cherry, Rowan, Scots Pine, Hornbeam, and Aspen.
All of Carbon Neutral Britain’s carbon offsetting projects are certified to the highest standards through the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Gold Standard Voluntary Emission Reductions (VER), and Certified Emission Reductions (CER) programmes, ensuring that the measurements and tonnes of CO2e are accurate and verified. To qualify for these standards, all projects must go through a rigorous and public registration and management process, thirdparty audit, and are overseen by the CDM Executive Board, ratified by the Kyoto Protocol. This means that the international carbon credits we use are the exact same credits used by multinational organisations and even countries in their emission reduction schemes.
As individuals, we all have a role to play in tackling the climate crisis. By supporting carbon neutral companies, who are taking active steps to reduce their impact on the planet, we can all make a meaningful difference. And, as we hope SE-LF demonstrates, it is possible to make environmentally minded decisions at every level of business –from the materials we use to the partnerships we forge – and do our part to create a more sustainable future.
We aren’t content on stopping here though. We are always looking for ways to increase our positive environmental impact, and are committed to exploring new initiatives in the future; so keep an eye on our website, social media platforms and our forthcoming magazine for what comes next.
Mastering Your Breath: Your Pathway to Inner Peace and Balance
By Samantha Hale - Wellness Expert
Breath work has become my favourite self-care tool because there are so many techniques we can draw upon and the benefits make taking the time to be still and breathe more than worth it in my experience.
For me the starting point is breath awareness, finding space to be still (Let’s be realistic here, that space might not always be a quiet one and that’s okay!), and giving myself the time to reconnect to my rhythm of breathing, without altering it. Noticing the natural rise and fall of my torso as I breathe in and out, noticing where my breath lands in my body and how it feels at that moment. Then noticing my thoughts, beliefs and judgments around my breath (This part is important because it helps to build awareness around what we bring into this space and how it impacts our breathing), welcoming in those thoughts, beliefs and judgments and acknowledging them one by
one because when we do this we’re not resisting them (what we resist, persists), and when we’re not resisting them we begin to take the power out of them to find our way back to our breath and using that as an anchor.
We can survive 3 weeks without food, 3 days without water and 3 minutes without oxygen. 25% of the oxygen we breathe is used by the brain, 12% by the kidneys and only 7% by the heart. We breathe, on average 12 - 20 times per minute, which equates to roughly 20, 000 cycles in 24 hours.
The autonomic nervous system connects the brain and body and is made up of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. During high stress, the SNS (fight, flight or freeze response) is activated. We know the signs; heart rate rises, adrenaline courses through our body, our breath becomes faster, shallower and higher up in the chest. When we’re truly calm and relaxed the PNS (rest and digest mode) is activated. This is less known but the heart rate slows, blood pressure is reduced, breathing slows down and is somewhat deeper in the torso, nearer the belly.
“ We have the power to shift our thinking by changing the way we breathe”
Ashley Neese
Samantha Hale
Get to know how your diaphragm works:
Place your hands on each side of your torso with little fingers touching your bottom ribs.
Breathing gently in and out through your nose, feel your sides expand on each inhale and retract on each exhale.
Many of us hold our breath without realising, reading that first email in the morning or noticing how many we need to respond to today, on top of our ever-growing to-do list!
Focusing on the exhale can be challenging because it forces us to look at why we might be holding our breath. When we pause for a moment to focus our attention on the exhale as we breathe, our brain will further support this pause by sending a message from the brain to the body to switch gears and shift into rest and digest mode. In return, the lungs & heart send feedback to the brain convincing it that all is calm and peaceful even when it might not be.
Anxiety & stress cannot live within our bodies if we choose to consciously slow down our breathing. They require shallow and fast breathing to survive and thrive within us. Focusing on the exhale and making it longer than the inhale centres, grounds and calms us, allowing us to be a little more present.
Building a breathwork practice:
Find a comfortable position whether you are seated or lying down
Bring one hand to the belly, one hand to the chest
Without altering your breath take the time here to notice the rhythm of your breathing
Where does it land and how does it feel? Is it landing lower down in your torso near the hand resting on your belly? Deeper, longer, slower
Or is it landing higher up in your torso near that hand resting on your chest? Shallower, shorter, quicker (There’s no right or wrong here, it’s simply awareness)
Begin to notice thoughts, beliefs and judgements. Don’t try to resist them, what we resist persists.
So instead welcome them in one by one and acknowledge each of them as if they were your friend.
Notice when you do this, you begin to take the power out of them. Those thoughts, beliefs and judgements begin to dissipate and melt away (Sometimes this is easy, sometimes it is challenging. Remember our practice is never linear but rather an opportunity to notice the similarities and differences, and what they could mean for us in each moment)
Slowly begin to invite your inhale to deepen and your exhale to lengthen. If it’s comfortable try inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth with a sigh.
Consciously begin to extend the exhale so it’s a little longer than the inhale (if it helps you can count to 3 with each inhale and count to 4 for each exhale)
Repeat this for as many rounds of breath as feels comfortable for you before returning to your natural rhythm
When you do return to your natural rhythm of breathing, notice the similarities and differences between your breath now and when you first began your practice
Return your SE-LF box to play your part in helping the planet
To do so:
- Repack your bottles and jars into the box
- Visit www.se-lf.co.uk to request a return
- Follow the instruction you receive via email
No need to print a label at home
As climate change continues to worsen, we are constantly reminded of the need to reduce our waste and recycle more. While recycling is certainly important, it is not the only solution to our waste problem. In fact, reusing packaging is even more important when it comes to mitigating the impact of climate change. Here’s why.
When we recycle materials, we typically use energy to break them down and turn them into something new. While this is certainly better than throwing them away, it still requires a significant amount of energy and resources. In addition, many materials can only be recycled a certain number of times before they become unusable.
Reusing packaging, on the other hand, eliminates the need to use energy and resources to create something new. It also helps to extend the life of materials, reducing the overall demand for new resources. By reusing components, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the environment.
At SE-LF we have incorporated this into what we do. Once you have finished with your box, pack the aluminium bottles and jars back inside, then visit www.se-lf.co.uk to request a free return. Once back, we clean and sterilise for reuse, reducing the overall demand for new materials. By returning these components, you can make a positive impact on the environment and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
While recycling is certainly important, reusing components is even more critical when it comes to reducing our impact on the environment. By incorporating reusing into our daily lives, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and help to mitigate the impacts of climate change. So, start reusing today and make a positive impact on the world around you.
Give the gift of Self-care today
Looking for the perfect gift to show your friends, loved ones or colleagues that you care about their wellbeing?
Our collection of boxes are carefully curated to promote self-care, relaxation, and mindfulness. Including luxurious skincare products and tools, as well as guided meditation and mindfulness practises, each item is thoughtfully designed to provide a meaningful and nurturing experience.
Whether you want to help someone unwind after a long day, encourage self-reflection, or simply show your support for their wellbeing, our boxes are a beautiful way to express your care and thoughtfulness. Our other boxes include:
UNWIND: Bath & Shower Experience
MASSAGE: For Couples or Self Use
DETOX: Hangover Recovery
Give the gift of self-care today: