Banish stress from mind and body

Stress levels have doubled in four years, according to recent research, and the result can be premature ageing, sleep deprivation, spots and skin problems. No wonder that head and neck massage these days often comes as standard with many salon facials, as many tension headaches are caused by trigger points throughout the body, the neck being the chief culprit. A recent study found that massage of cervical trigger points worked wonders in providing relief. University of Granada researchers discovered that a massage (even if only for 30 minutes) can reduce chronic tension headaches within 24 hours. To check out which spas and salons offer massage click on to www.wahanda.com.

Stress levels have doubled in four years, according to recent research, and the result can be premature ageing, sleep deprivation, spots and skin problems. No wonder that head and neck massage these days often comes as standard with many salon facials, as many tension headaches are caused by trigger points throughout the body, the neck being the chief culprit. A recent study found that massage of cervical trigger points worked wonders in providing relief. University of Granada researchers discovered that a massage (even if only for 30 minutes) can reduce chronic tension headaches within 24 hours. To check out which spas and salons offer massage click on to www.wahanda.com.

When in doubt, inhale deeply. Liz Earle's Superskin Concentrate is a night facial oil with an intense, aromatic blend of 100 per cent pure plant oils, which help to restore the skin while you sleep with softening argan and organic rosehip oils, soothing neroli, lavender and chamomile essential oils, plus a protective natural source vitamin E, ideal for preparing skin for winter. It costs 37 at the Liz Earle store in the Victoria Quarter Leeds, which opens on November 22.

To help prevent the build-up of stress, Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics has a selection of rescue remedies, all totally natural and holistic, to work all your muscles, leave skin feeling fantastic and also nurture and nourish your mind. There's Lush's own Synaesthesia Massage (125, available at Leeds) but you can treat yourself at home, with its Therapy Massage Bar (5.65 for 65g), which you melt in your hands to release skin softening cocoa butter and shea butter and calming lavender oil and neroli oil. From Lush shops and mail order on 01202 668 545, or order on-line at www.lush.co.uk. Call 0113 243 3626 for Leeds store.

STOP PRESS

He's made up Myleene Klass and Lesley Garrett. Now celebrity make-up artist Armand Beasley will be at the Sisley counter in Harvey Nichols Leeds today and tomorrow advising on winter make-up trends. There's a 25 booking fee, redeemable against purchases made on the day. Call 0113 204 8888 and ask for the Sisley counter.