We talk to Margo Marrone, The Organic Pharmacy co-founder, pharmacist and homeopath about the integration of natural health and beauty.
Margo is a busy working mother who fully understands the practicalities and challenges of trying to balance work, life wellbeing, and play, and online offline life...
"Stress has become an accepted aspect of modern life, causing serious mental, physical and emotional issues for many. Research shows over and over again that stress directly compromises our immune system, and being in constant ‘fight-or-flight’ mode renders us more vulnerable to illness"
says Margo. 'It has become an accepted aspect of modern life, causing serious mental, physical and emotional issues for many. Research shows over and over again that stress directly compromises our immune system, and being in constant ‘fight-or-flight’ mode renders us more vulnerable to illness'.
'De-stressing and supporting your immune system is crucial, now more than ever and it’s a well-known fact that stress and immunity go hand in hand', says Margo. ‘When we’re stressed, our central nervous system releases signals that directly affect our hormonal system and our immune system, which means we become more susceptible to infections, colds and flu. I’ve also seen skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and acne worsen as a result of stress'.
Treat yourself to our stress and immune remedies
‘Our thoughts have a massive impact on our wellbeing too, and I try to be very conscious of mine,’ Margo continues. ‘It’s not easy to do, because being negative and ungrateful can creep up on all of us and take over our lives. So every morning or evening, depending on my schedule, I take the time to burn some cleansing incense – either sage, palo santo or a myrrh and frankincense mixture – while listing all the things I’m grateful for. It’s so joyful, and really calms my mind. Over time, it has made a huge difference.’
Margo is a huge advocate for homeopathy and the way it stimulates the body’s own healing mechanism, as well as boosting the immune system, which in turn brings emotional and physical balance. Rather than treating the symptoms alone, homeopathy targets the root cause of disease. This is why we included The Organic Pharmacy Relax Tincture in our Good To Go set. It’s a potent combination of herbal tonics and adaptogens that will support the nervous system and help the body cope with stress.
Aromas and breathing are also a mighty combination when it comes to treating stress and anxiety. ‘They are at their most powerful when used as part of a relaxation technique such as meditation, yoga, pilates, massage or aromatherapy,’ says Margo. She recommends creating a calming atmosphere by diffusing your favourite essential oils for combating stress, lying comfortably on the floor face up, closing your eyes and breathing deeply and steadily (breathing is key to relaxing). Tense the muscles in your feet, hold for a few seconds and release. Gradually working up the body, repeat this process from your thighs to your shoulders.
And breathe...
