Cellulite: Say goodbye with these Massage and Natural Solutions
Cellulite, or “cottage cheese” skin, is a constant aesthetic problem that some people face, and frequently affects women. However, even though it may seem insurmountable, you can correct cellulite by following a few pieces of healthy advice, and by using the help of massage and ingredients that are often times found around the house.
Healthy Diet
If you want to get rid of cellulite once and for all, you cannot ignore your diet. This is undoubtedly one of the most important areas.
Include more fruits and vegetables: They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, which are nutrients that promote good bodily health, and quite possibly improve the way cellulite appears. Opt for fresh produce, because they retain their nutritional properties better this way.
Choose whole grains: Although refined grains are generally favorites, give whole grain rice a try, or rye flour. Whole grains provide more fiber and nutrients than their refined versions.
Drink enough water: Drinking enough water throughout the day is key to getting rid of cellulite, because this helps eliminate toxins and promotes good blood circulation. Try to drink between 6 and 8 glasses of water a day. This amount could vary, more or less, depending on how much you exercise, or the climactic conditions.
Avoid simple sugars: Although caramels, pastries, ice cream, etc., are so tempting, it’s better to completely avoid them. Or at least avoid them as much as possible to eliminate cellulite.
Cook with healthy fats: Avoid butter and saturated fats. Instead, opt for vegetable oils like olive oil, to cook with. And always choose the cooking method that uses the least amount of oil, like grilling, steaming, stewing, etc.
Consume lean sources of protein: Avoid fatty meat cuts, like pork. And if you eat chicken, try to remove the skin, which stores the fats. Instead, choose fish and vegetable protein sources, like legumes.
Self-massage
Massage helps promote circulation, leading to the disappearance of cellulite. The following massage is designed for you to give to yourself, in the areas that cellulite is most common.
Step 1: Apply an oil to massage from your feet to your knees, moving in this upward direction. This helps stimulate circulation.
Step 2: Use your hands to rub problematic areas, using your fingers in the thinnest areas, like under your knees and arms.
Step 3: Using your knuckles, gently press on the cellulite dimples, around the hips, for example.
Step 4: Using your hands, grab a section of your hips and gently squeeze it, as if you were wringing a wet towel out. You could also use this method on your thighs and meaty areas. In smaller areas, use your fingers to gently pinch the area.
Step 5: Lastly, rub your fingertips from your ankles to your hips, gently rubbing while applying pressure.
Juniper and Olive Oil Massage
Juniper and olive oil are great not only for improving the way your skin looks, but they also fight cellulite. In order to take advantage of these benefits, mix a small amount of equal parts of both oils in your hands. Then apply in a circular motion over the affected are you would like to treat. Gently press your fingers into the area after massaging it. Repeat daily, results are usually visible after the first week, and are great after one month of repeated use.
Quick Coffee Remedy
If you want to eliminate cellulite in just a few hours, follow the following home treatment. Mix one tablespoon of cocoa butter with one tablespoon of coffee rounds, and half a teaspoon of brown sugar. Make sure all ingredients are well blended, and rub in circles over the area you would like to treat, for about 10 minutes. You should, however, keep in mind that these results are temporary, but they could be useful for a special occasion.
Dry Brushing
Dry brushing helps exfoliate skin, improving not only the way it looks, but also good blood circulation. You will need a natural bristle brush for dry brushing, which should be made especially for the body.
Before showering, rub the brush over your body, from your ankles to your hips. Always try to make sure you do no irritate your skin by scrubbing too hard, nor by using circular movements. Never brush hard. You should brush y our arms in the direction toward your heart, and the abdomen should be brushed in a circular motion, counter-clockwise. Do not brush sensitive areas like the face or bust.
Avoid using a brush with wet bristles. We also do not recommend brushing your skin when it is moist.
Exercise
This is a very important aspect for eliminating cellulite. You should do some sort of regular physical exercise, including a few exercises that target specific problem areas, like squats, walking, biking, etc.