Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1514075
Get coverage for your equipment on- and off-site! More at ascpskincare.com/bpp 47 BEYOND TREATMENT ESTHETICIANS POSSESS UNIQUE CHARACTER TRAITS that contribute to our success in the treatment room. Of those traits, one of the most compelling is our empathy and compassion for others— the ability to empathize with client concerns makes us unique, but it also takes deliberate practice and patience. This work can be gratifying through the relationships we create, the results we achieve, and the profi table businesses we build. While this compassion for others is important, prioritizing self-care has become more crucial than ever. We must protect ourselves by ensuring our spas are safe for us to work in. The timeless advice, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you'll never have to work a day in your life," resonates deeply within our profession. Yet, the joy we derive from our work is intrinsically linked to our well-being. The risk of burnout and compassion fatigue underscores the necessity of safeguarding our own sanctuary—the treatment room. By practicing self-care, we can make sure our spas are a safe space for ourselves as professionals, where we can model healthy behavior, treat our clients to rejuvenating services, and show up as our best selves. Traditional self-care practices like exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep remain foundational. But let's explore some other creative ideas for practicing self-care. FOREST BATHING There are a lot of things we can learn from Eastern practices, and one of them is forest bathing. This practice is not new but is becoming more popular in Western cultures as we seek grounding. Forest bathing aims to cleanse the mind and reconnect the body with the earth. Some call this eco-therapy. We already know eco-therapy is good for us because vitamin D from the sun has shown to increase dopamine levels and promote mood stabilization. Forest bathing takes this connection further by allowing you to intentionally submerse yourself in nature, consciously connect with your surroundings, and disconnect from the modern world. Leave the AirPods at home and untether yourself from digital devices. Once you're in nature, move slowly and focus on activating your senses. Take in the sights, sounds, and scents that surround you and breathe intentionally. You'll be amazed at how much beauty there is in the world that you miss on a daily basis. Take Care to Give Care When was the last time you practiced authentic self-care? by Lauren Snow LUCAS ALLMAN/PEXELS