Monday Musings: Lasers, Yarn, and a Little Gua Sha For Jaw Tension
Happy Monday, ladies! I hope you had a wonderful weekend and are easing into the week with a hot cup of something that makes you smile. I have many things rattling around in my head this morning…lasers, yarn, Gua Sha for jaw tension, dumbbells, and earrings. A strange combination, but here we are.
Shopping
SILK SCARF – tell her I sent you if you order one
I won’t admit to outright stalking the store that carries this throw pillow, but it may appear that way to some. I’ve wanted to own it since I spotted it last year, but I refuse to pay the insane asking price. Every time my daughter and I cruise through the shop, I keep checking. The chair is on sale now, but not the pillow 😒.
**A note about my crossbody above. Mine is deep navy, and it’s also available in other shades. It’s a buttery soft lambskin, and light as a feather. It has additional straps that allow me to convert it into a shoulder bag, a shorter shoulder bag, a crossbody, and a handheld. I could not love it more! It’s made by a small woman-owned company in NY that makes my other travel bags. There’s a side zipper to easily stow my phone, and it has an inner leash to clip my keys on so I never have to dig for them.
Fraxel
After months (okay, years) of talking myself out of it, I’m finally booked for a Fraxel laser treatment this week. I’ve done my fair share of skin procedures over the years, but I’ve always avoided this one because of the downtime. Apparently, I’ll be pink, puffy, and slightly frightening for a few days, then flaking like a croissant after that.
My friend Ellen and I were chatting last week about the different types of lasers for the face, and she said, “I don’t do any of those lasers that take six months to start working. I might not have that kind of time!” I love her, and she has a point, but the one my doctor recommended works immediately.
I have three stubborn precancerous spots that did not resolve with the photodynamic therapy I did last month, and I really want them gone! The dermatologist tells me the Fraxel can help remove them and also generally freshen my complexion. I’ll share the results with you and recommend one if I find it worthwhile. Have you had one? Please share what you know. I’d love to hear. I admit to being nervous about this.
A Craving for Cables
On a cozier note, I found myself in the yarn shop this weekend. I’ve been craving a new knitting project, something that requires enough concentration to keep me out of trouble but not so much that I end up in tears. After fondling half the skeins in the store (do knitters ever just grab and go?), I came home with a couple of balls of gorgeous yarn and a new set of interchangeable needles. When will I learn to always travel with my needles? Never! So now I have a set to keep here and one in California.
I’m planning to knit a cable sweater because apparently I enjoy suffering. But before I tackle that, I’ll be knitting a hat to test the yarn and make sure my gauge is on track. That way, if it all goes sideways, at least I’ll have a Christmas gift made, while I rethink my life choices. I don’t knit for the resulting product. For me, it’s a therapeutic form of relaxing, and I find the process meditative.
Strength training… sort of
And then there’s weights. I’ve been a loyal Pilates devotee a couple of times a week this year, but lately I’ve been dipping my toe into the mysterious world of strength training. Everyone on the internet (and likely all of you) insists that weights are the fountain of youth, the secret to bone health, the cure for achy joints, the answer to world peace…you name it.
My daughter lent me her 5lb dumbbells to get started, and they feel ridiculously heavy to me. What’s sad is that 10 years ago, I was using 8lb weights with ease! I’ve just begun, and let me tell you, my shoulders are making noises I didn’t know they were capable of. Snapping, crackling, popping, like I swallowed a bowl of Rice Krispies. I’ve been told this is precisely why I need to strengthen them. Apparently, carrying shopping bags doesn’t count as resistance training. Who knew?
Everyday earrings
On a much prettier note, a brand recently sent me the most delicate pair of white gold and diamond earrings. They’re small, simple, and somehow manage to go with everything. I find myself reaching for them almost every day. They’re not posts, which makes them super comfortable, so I could even sleep in them, though I don’t. I love the hint of sparkle without feeling flashy. My daughter is wearing these Nadiri emerald cut CZ studs almost every day and loves their simplicity.
It got me wondering what your everyday jewelry staples are? Do you have a necklace you never take off, a watch that feels like part of your arm, or a pair of hoops that finish every outfit? I’d love to know the pieces you wear on repeat.
Gua Sha and my jaw
And then there’s my jaw, which I’ve recently learned is tighter than a drum. My physiotherapist confirmed it last week after poking around and suggesting I “try to relax.” Easier said than done…hence the new knitting project.
I already have a gua sha back in California, but I decided I needed one here, too. The idea is simple: run a smooth stone across your face, and you’re promised everything from a sculpted jawline to a calmer mind. More importantly, it’s supposed to help release jaw tension, so I’m giving it a try.
I bought this really affordable Rose Quartz Gua Sha on Friday and have been giving it a workout. I can actually feel the crunch of tight muscles when I run it along my jawline. I don’t think it will keep me from clenching my teeth at night, but if it helps relax the muscles, I’ll count that as progress.
Have you tried it? Do you think it truly helps, or is it more about the ritual than the result?
My “always on” are a gold and silver ring with pave diamonds (2 interlocking palm leaves: one plain gold, the other the diamonds), and a plain gold chain link bracelet with one link pave diamonds. Both from the EFFY shop on a Holland America ship. The ring may sound gaudy from the description, but it’s really quite subtle. The earrings are usually a pair of pearl studs from my great-aunt
I love family jewelry…it’s so special
Love the earrings today, and I may have to have those emerald cut cz’s. My finishing touch to most outfits is a pair of Tiffany gold hoops. Medium size, they go with all. The other most used option would be diamond studs. And I have some dichroic glass earrings that I love too for their pretty unusual colors. Earring girl here!
Just had to comment today. I have several pieces that are always on. Toe rings-must be full circle then you don’t feel them, pinky rings and wedding set, small diamond pendant and 3 freshwater pearl bracelets. These pieces are part of me and are just always on. At yoga one day, the gal beside me said “pretty fancy for yoga”. I waved at what I was wearing and said “just my old clothes”. She smiled and said “no the pearls!” I laughed as it was like commenting on a freckle!
lol! Pearls are forever
I had CO2 Fraxel a couple of years ago. The immediate results were amazing but I do not feel that lasted more than 6 months.
Thanks Val
I bought a Gua Sha and tried it for a couple of weeks but I was worried instead of tightening it was stretching my skin so I stopped. I do not want to create more wrinkles.
Love your bag but unfortunately they are sold out of the black which is what I’m in the market for. My old one is set to retire this fall.
I’ll be interested in your Fraxel laser results. I’ve been tempted but hear it’s painful. I’m a bit hesitant.
Our weather has certainly changed over the last week. It has me thinking all things fall.
Quite a range of topics! I too have 3 precancerous spots on my face that the dermatologist has frozen for the third time. Not sure if photodynamic or Fraxel are in my budget but I’m definitely going to ask about them on my next visit in 6 months. As for knitting – I also love the process and buying yarn, even though in SC we don’t need a lot of items for cold weather. I found a site that lists charities you can knit for, blankets for babies and shawls for dementia patients, are the 2 that got my attention and those are projects within my abilities. Not bothered by jaw problems, hope the Gua Sha helps with yours.
How does your new purse compare with the Lo & Sons Pearl, which I currently own? I like the look of it, and the strap looks great. When full, is it heavy?
It’s softer and more slouchy than the Pearl, which I also LOVE. (I have 2). It will hold more than the Pearl and is more organized but the biggest difference is the look and vibe, slouchy vs structured. I never thought I would be a fan of slouchy, but this one is so convertible it’s one me over.
I also have a tight jaw, and I grind and clench my teeth at night. After braces and dental work, my teeth aren’t properly aligned anymore. I found that acupuncture helps a lot! I was skeptical at first, but went to a Chinese medicine doctor recommended by a friend.
The first appointment was 90 minutes, and follow ups are one hour. The needles are very fine, and at worst you might feel a few just when they are placed. I saw the doctor once a week or so at the start, and now I go every 4 – 6 weeks. The experience actually very relaxing. My jaw is more relaxed, I sleep better, and although I still sometimes clench my jaw, I don’t grind my teeth at night! What really sold me was the first time I had treatment, I had a bruised rib that was painful but I didn’t mention it to the doctor. Getting into my car, I realized it my rib didn’t hurt as much any more. I was surprised, and now I highly recommend.
I agree that strength training is so important as we age. I used to do it in my 20s 30s and 40s but stopped after that due to busyness with life at that time. I started up again a couple years ago (I’m now 71) and it’s given me so much energy and painless movement. I’ve also lost four inches around my waistline. When I started back up a few years ago I was shocked at how difficult some moves were even without weights! I started with one pound weights and quickly moved up to five. I now use a combination of five eight ten and fifteen pound dumbbells depending on the move and how I feel that day. Listen to your body and don’t progress too quickly.
Another thing I began focusing on was mobility work for my body. We spend so much time not moving or not using certain joints in our modern life that I have found this to be just as important as strength training. I do some of this every day while I do the strength training a few times each week.
I also do gua sha on my face and neck. I find when I don’t I have a lot more tension there. I love doing it gently on the back of my neck at the hairline and on my jaw near my ears. I find that releases a lot of tension.
Btw I love your posts and take on personal style. Your honesty is refreshing. And I’ve learned so much about other things in life through your posts and the comments by others. Thank you for all you do for this community.
Thanks for being part of this community. You are one of the reasons it’s so fabulous! xo
Good morning Jennifer! It’s so nice to wake up to your blog. My favorite piece of jewelry that I wear almost daily is a simple white beaded bracelet with one rainbow bead. As an LGBTQ ally, it’s my way of quietly supporting those who often don’t feel it.
I like that, Jenny!
Team diamond studs all the time over here! I rarely switch out earrings. Also team lifting heavy – it makes such a difference. Start slow, build up slowly, give your body time to rest in between. Get a trainer or watch You.Tube videos to be sure you are using proper form. Nothing should hurt (be careful with that shoulder). You can start with body weight. Do squats. One day you’ll grab a grocery bag with ease and notice the difference. Finally, I did two treatments of the laser on my jaw line melasma. It hurt too much to do more but it worked.
I am new to your blog. I love everything from your styles, anything about being healthy, etc. Have a good day.
Welcome, Vicki!
My everyday earrings are tiny 14k pink/mauve pearls. The strength training is a must for senior ladies. Put some music on and have fun with it.
I had Fraxel treatments on my neck to remove sun damage. I have in because I was tired of my ever present red neck and creepy lines.
The headline? It worked! My normal color returned to my neck and the skin tightened slightly. Things I wish I knew ahead of time:
1. It hurts! It may have been because our neck areas have little fat and lots of nerves, so the face could be different. But ouch!
The technician advised me to take over the counter pain relievers an hour before the treatments. They helped, but it still hurt.
2. The redness and soreness is no joke. The good news is that the worst of it lasted only a few days. Plan for some indoor time, because it’s advised to avoid too much sun.
Good luck!
Oh wow, I should ask about my neck too! Let’s see how the face goes and for the second (she recommends) maybe I’ll add that.
I had 2 Fraxel treatments a couple of years ago. They applied a numbing gel an hour before the procedure. And the procedure, imagine someone snapping rubber bands all over your face. Immediate swelling. I wore a face mask when venturing out. Very expensive. I did see minor results but couldn’t justify going back every few months. So instead I invested in the Artemis light therapy system with an added decolletage device. I use it every few days. It takes 10 minutes and I feel like it’s a mini spa treatment.
I’ve had several fraxel treatments. My Derm recommended a series of 4, I’ve done it twice. The results…post puffy and peeling.. are immediate. I’m doing it again in the Fall…also recommended NOT to do it in the Summer when the sun is high UV!!!
This morning you are really talking my language! 😂 I’m with my first cup of coffee, looking out over water and reading your blog.
I had IPL on my face 3 years ago, for cosmetic reasons and I had amazing results. I did it in preparation for my daughter’s wedding, 3 treatments over 5 months, and I think it took 10 years off me.
Weight training—yup. I have a personal trainer because I don’t have the discipline without an appointment. It does everything you mentioned: weight control, posture, bone density, balance, and just plain makes me feel good.
Knitting: I always have at least one project going, usually two. I never travel without a small one ( right now I’m knitting a bunch of washcloths for Christmas stocking stuffers), and a large one (sweater for a grand).
I also always travel with a book.
I don’t have a gua sha yet but a friend just told me last week I need to use one on my arthritic hands. As for relaxation, I am a firm believer in meditation. I use the Waking Up app by Sam Harris, 10 minutes a day. It’s truly life changing for reducing anxiety, tension, and keeping perspective.
I’ve had an IPL but need to ask about BBL. I’ve been frustrated not having something to knit for the last few months so I need be sure I always have something on the go. Even a pot holder!
I had 2 Fraxel treatments last year and am scheduled for another one next month. I found that it really did make a big improvement in my skin tone. The down time of 4 to 5 days is inconvenient although it wasn’t as bad the second time. The black spots that appear by the third day are really weird! The procedure is slightly uncomfortable but tolerable and over quickly. I look forward to reading about your experience!
Hi Jennifer. Happy Monday. I had the Tetra CO2 laser about a year ago. The results were amazing. My skin improved by about 50% (pigmentation, fine lines and redness). However I would not do it again. It is very invasive and downtime was about 2 weeks. I looked so bad (swelling, redness and peeling) I could have starred in a horror movie. I understand Fraxel is not as invasive as the CO2 laser treatment. I also had a BBL treatment about 6 months ago and downtime, swelling and redness wasn’t anything compared to the CO2 laser. My medical spa doesn’t offer Fraxel. I do plan on another BBL or other treatment (Motus+AZ or Halo) in a few months. I feel a few days of downtime is worth the results. Good luck and wishes for a speedy recovery. Have a great week!
CO2 has been recommended many times but I’m worrried about depigmenting which my skin likes to do with any trauma.
Looking forward to hearing about your treatment. I’ve noticed that I’m a bit tired and achy, and was just thinking I need to get back to using my 5 lb weights!
Those dainty hoops are lovely. Are you wearing the Jumbo or the petite jumbo?
These are the jumbo which are tiny
I was scheduled for a fractionated carbon dioxide laser of my face, but had to cancel because of a crown abscess, so I have put it off until the end of our summer. Not sure if this is the same as Fraxel, but only local anaesthetic is needed, unlike the type of Fraxel which needs twilight sedation. Will be interested in how it goes for you. As for jewellery, I was given a little pendant with a fish on it as a gift before my first overseas trip in 1978. I consider it my lucky charm and never travel unless I am wearing it.
You, my dear, provide such insight, humor and direction! Thank you.