For many of us, life can be pretty challenging. The global economy is getting worse and, here in New Zealand, home values are fluctuating and its more expensive to visit the supermarket than its ever been. When we face tough times, it's more important than ever to look after our mental health! In fact, the way we're feeling has a big impact on how we deal with stress.
There are heaps of things you can do to improve your mental health and wellbeing - but did you know that a visit to the hair salon can actually make a big difference?
We've all heard the expression, 'look good, feel good'. In the following article, we take a look at five reasons why a visit to Hair Intentions could be just what the doctor ordered!
Five excellent ways a visit to Hair Intentions is good for your mental health and wellbeing
1. You're doing something special for yourself.
If you're like many of the people we chat to, you spend a lot of your life focused on others: your partner, your children, your colleagues, your extended family. It's a great thing to spend time helping and giving to others... in fact, it's a really important part of mental health. However, too much focus on others (and not enough on yourself) can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
When you visit the salon (even if it's just a few hours), you're essentially shutting off from the rest of the world. For a brief moment in time, you can sit back and have others care for you! Not only do you get the chance to be pampered, but you also get to focus on nothing else but doing something special for yourself.
2. You're doing something good for the world, too!
Helping others is one thing that most people wish they had more time or money to do. In fact, New Zealand is one of the most generous countries in the whole world. That's why we spend more of our disposable income on charitable causes than Australians, Brits and even Canadians! And, there’s a lot of research that tells us that generosity actually enhances our quality of life. So imagine how awesome it would be if a simple visit to your hair salon was also making a difference to the causes you care about most?
At Hair Intentions, every time you visit, you're actually helping us do good at the same time. Not only are we a cruelty-free salon (we only use products that have never been tested on animals), we are also partnered with Sustainable Salons. This means we can divert up to 97% of our salon waste away from landfills. Check out the other ways your visit to Hair Intentions is making a difference.
3. Every appointment is infused with aromatherapy and relaxation.
It should come as no surprise that certain scents can trigger strong physical physiological and psychological responses. Aromatherapy (and the use of essential oils) can actually help in the treatment of anxiety and stress, sleep issues, depression, dementia, ADHD, autism, chronic pain and even menstrual and menopausal issues.
We are committed to providing our clients with a relaxing and peaceful environment. The last thing you want is to rush around all day (working, dropping children off to school, etc.), only to visit your hairdresser and feel rushed through your appointment. At Hair Intentions, we do our best to book extra time in our day to make sure you get the best possible experience.
Whether it's a relaxing head massage, a steaming cup of peppermint tea, or the incredible aromas you'll smell coming from our essential oil diffusers, and from our Evo hair products at the basin, we are sure you'll leave the salon feeling (and looking) amazing.
4. It's true what they say... laughter is the best medicine.
For many of us, life can be a bit draining. You wake up in the morning, make breakfast, go to work, come home, watch a little television and go to bed... only to do it all again the next day. It's no wonder we are so serious most of the time. It's been said that children laugh more than 300 times a day, whereas adults laugh less than 20 times a day. We're not sure if that's completely true, but we are convinced that most people take life too seriously.
But why is laughter so important? Believe it or not, but the old expression, 'laughter is the best medicine' is actually true! Laughter not only relaxes your body, but it boosts your immune system, triggers the release of endorphins (the body's natural feel-good chemicals), protects your heart, and helps you live longer. Laughter even burns calories!! So, how can we do more laughing?
When you visit Hair Intentions, it's the perfect opportunity to have a good laugh. Our incredible stylists always have a smile on their face and are ready with a good story so you can truly let loose and have a great time. Get to know our team, here.
5. You'll be more social, and meet new people... in person!
Our lives are extremely busy, so it's no surprise that most people avoid social interaction when it's not completely necessary. But, spending quality time with others is an excellent way to improve your mood and give you a boost! Being social can improve your mental health, lower your risk of dementia, promote a sense of belonging and gives you the chance to confide in others, and let others confide in you.
While online interactions are better than not socialising at all, social networks (like facebook, whatsapp and instagram) may give you a false sense of connectedness. In fact, when you meet up with friends in person, you're more likely to get a mood boost and feel satisfied by the interaction.
When you book in an appointment with your favourite hairdresser, you're likely going to leave feeling refreshed, motivated and enthusiastic, because you've had the chance to meet new people, have a great chat and laugh, and maybe even confide in them with something you haven't shared with others. Our stylists are great at listening!
There are many reasons why a visit to Hair Intentions will give you a boost. Why not book in an appointment today with your favourite stylist?!
If you're struggling and need support (or know someone who is), keep reading.
Mental health and wellbeing - where to get help:
The following information has been provided by New Zealand's Ministry of Health website.
Digital tools and resources
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Groov is an app that you can use to monitor, manage and improve your mental wellbeing by setting daily goals and tracking your progress.
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Small Steps are digital tools to help you maintain wellness, find relief, or get help for yourself, friends or whānau.
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HABITs Messenger – (including Aroha Chatbot) a uniquely New Zealand chatbot app designed for young people – it feels like talking with a trusted friend. Download it from the app store on your mobile device.
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Triple P Online – online parenting support including Triple P, Teen Triple P and FearLess Triple P. Designed to help parents support their children and teenagers to cope with lifes, ups and downs, promote wellbeing and make family life more enjoyable.
If you want to talk
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Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.
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The Depression Helpline – 0800 111 757 or free text 4202 (to talk to a trained counsellor about how you are feeling or to ask any questions).
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Youthline – 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat.
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The Lowdown Text 5626 for support to help young people recognise and understand depression or anxiety.
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Alcohol Drug Helpline (0800 787 797)
Mental health services
Most people will be referred to mental health services through their GP or family doctor. Mental health services in the community are funded through Te Whatu Ora.
Suicide Prevention
Suicide is a serious concern for New Zealand communities. There are a range of services, initiatives and organisations contributing to preventing suicide. This includes suicide prevention training and services delivered into communities.
Information about what to do if you are worried about someone’s immediate safety.
Note: The information above provides a summary some of the services and resources available.