Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1037162
www.ascpskincare.com 75 EXTERNAL INFLUENCES OF CULTURAL STRESS External factors such as sun overexposure must be discouraged, and collagen- deposition and collagen- formation-encouraging agents and treatments should be used to stave off damage from the outside. Strong, healthy skin improves genetic expression for innate cellular immunity. This includes a daily skin care regimen with client- specific cleansers, treatments, and hydration to repair damage and protect and fortify the skin's barrier function and connective tissue. EMOTIONAL INFLUENCES OF CULTURAL STRESS Although on the surface modern life can seem easy because of all our technological advances, it is actually harder in many ways. Support for psychological and social balance helps reduce stress levels and prevent deleterious gene expression. Stress reduction "feel-good" services, such as those provided within the spa environment, can be used, as well as activities like yoga, support group participation, art classes, positive-living lectures, daily readings of life-affirming writings, and counseling. Clients must be encouraged to unplug from technology. Together these tools can help promote well-being and reduce cultural stress and its influence over genes. How we're meant to live and age is not written in stone within our genetic information. We do have a measure of control if we use an inclusive health plan that addresses internal, external, and emotional influences. As science advances and new discoveries are made, we will one day have a clearer picture of how our genetic material functions and how the "ticker-tape" messages can be interrupted with accuracy and speed to effect immediate and positive antiaging change. The result? Maybe Benjamin Franklin will be right after all. Aging won't be certain—just death and taxes. Understanding this, the genetic expression treatment plan is clear. It must start with an inclusive health plan that addresses CSAS in addition to treatment for internal, external, and other emotional influences. INTERNAL INFLUENCES OF CULTURAL STRESS Beyond cultural stress, there are several ways to improve internal health; after all, when health is high, damaging gene expression is low. The adage that you are what you eat is true. A good dose of low-acid, anti-inflammatory, and vitamin- and mineral-rich foods, lean meats, and minimally processed foods will help reduce the incidence of disease and conditions that would exacerbate internal conditions. In effect, the goal is to encourage internal wellness and adaptive immunity. When cells are fed wholesome, nutrient-rich foods, they have the tools to rebuild, stay strong and resilient, and operate at the highest levels. Happy, healthy cells make tissues strong and organs function well as systems work in synergy to keep you going. Studies on diet and longevity also indicate that extreme calorie restriction stimulates sirtuin factors that promote antiaging, as they reduce gene expression exponentially. Practicing extreme calorie restriction may be hard for most, but there is evidence that a healthful diet, together with frequent physical activity and improved sleep, can also have great antiaging effects. We do have a measure of control if we use an inclusive health plan that addresses internal, external, and emotional influences.