AVAILABLE CURES AND ADVICE FOR THE MOST COMMON SLEEP DISORDERS

by VEJAY STEEDE 

Sleep! It runs the gamut from luxurious to petrifying. For most of us, sleep provides relief, restoration, and reinvigoration. But for some, sleep is a time of anxiety, emotional distress, and exhaustion. 

The development of sleep disorders can be heavily affected by stress levels. According to Dr Craig Rowat of Spine and Sport Bermuda, there is a clear link between stress and diagnosed sleep disorders: 

“Disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea are some of the more common diagnoses that have shown a direct correlation with stress levels. With a person’s stress levels being somewhat subjective to measure, the role of stress can be difficult to measure; however, the presence of Covid-19 provided researchers with a unique opportunity to study stress as it relates to sleep. 

“Researchers examined healthcare workers in hospitals during the Covid-19 outbreak, and were able to compare their sleep habits against data taken from healthcare workers prior to Covid-19 – as this is a highly studied population to begin with. 

“In one study, the prevalence of sleep disorders amongst hospital workers during Covid-19 was 44 percent higher than pre-covid levels. This is a shocking statistic that demonstrates the havoc that stress can cause on your sleep. If you can help tame your stress, there is a good chance you can greatly help your quality of sleep.” 

The very idea of a sleep disorder seems cruel. Sleep is the body’s time to rest, regroup and replenish. Anything that interferes with that process is a major problem. 

Sleep Technician Joshua Dyball, of the Bermuda Center for Sleep Disorders, discusses the most common disorders treated at this local facility: 

“Sleep related breathing disorders are seen most at our facility, and primarily Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). OSA is a disruption in sleep characterised by repetitive episodes of complete or partial upper airway obstruction. Each episode lasts a minimum of 10 seconds and results in a reduction of blood oxygen saturation. Though this is the most common disorder we see, it remains dramatically under diagnosed and, when left untreated, increases the risk for many chronic illnesses and health problems.” 

Mr Dyball expounded on treatments available at the centre: “The most common treatment available for OSA is positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. This involves the use of a small machine and a mask to deliver pressurised air to your nose, mouth and throat while you sleep, thereby preventing the airway from collapsing. At our facility automatic PAP machines are typically prescribed as they are the most advanced and can determine the amount of pressure required to keep the airway open. 

“A second line of treatment is oral appliance therapy (OAT). These removable devices are custom fabricated by a Sleep Qualified Dentist and are designed to bring the lower jaw forward and open the bite. This increases airway space and allows for less restricted airflow during sleep.” 

For more entrenched sleep disorders, more comprehensive treatments may be necessary: 

“Surgeries are sometimes recommended for people with OSA, or other sleep related breathing disorders, particularly if conservative therapy cannot be tolerated. This can involve removal of tissues at the back of the throat (tonsils, adenoids, part of the soft palate or uvula), repositioning the jaw, or widening the palate. 

“A newer procedure called Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation uses a pacemaker type device which is implanted in the upper chest and electrically stimulates the tongue nerve throughout sleep to prevent it from obstructing the airway.” 

On the role that stress plays in sleep and sleep disorder management, Mr Dyball is clear: “Both mental and physical stress contribute to the worsening of sleep disorders. Sleep disorders are themselves a source of stress. The sympathetic nervous system is activated during stress, thus preventing the regenerative benefits of healthy sleep. 

“Stress drives a hormone called cortisol which drives our ‘fight or flight’ response which, in turn, hugely curtails our release of melatonin and our ability to relax and prepare for sleep. It can cause insomnia, reduce sleep quality, duration, and much more. 

“Stress management can therefore help with the prevention of some sleep problems, and help to attenuate the worsening of certain symptoms.” 

Of course, when one suffers from a sleep disorder, bedtime itself can be a stressor. Alleviating the stress of sleep-time can go a long way toward starting to get ahead of sleep disorders and getting better quality, effectively restorative, rest. 

Mr Dyball highlights consistency and support when removing stress from the sleep-time routine: 

“Making sleep-time less stressful will be relatively easy for some and a constant challenge for others. My biggest piece of advice when it comes to this is making time for, and prioritizing, sleep. It should be regular and consistent, with a similar wake up time and lay down time each night. Making the environment appealing and inviting is of huge importance, as well as focusing on areas that may need improvement when it comes to sleep hygiene. 

“Speaking to your doctor, counselor, or a cognitive behavioral specialist can substantially help, as well as ensuring that you have support at work, with friends, family, and loved ones.” 

Further tips for sleep disorder sufferers, as well as folks who just want to improve their sleep, include: Making sleep a priority that is just as vital to our lives as food, water and oxygen; creating a comfortable sleeping environment that is dark, cool and quiet; reducing LED and blue light exposure, which will suppress melatonin secretion and can alter circadian rhythm and sleep drive; exercising regularly; and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. 

Finally, Mr Dyball asserted that “the goal is to create an environment that promotes achieving the quality, and quantity, of sleep necessary. Aids are needed to eliminate factors that are preventing regenerative sleep.” 

Helpful websites he recommended include: 

American Academy of Sleep Medicine: https://sleepeducation.org 

American Sleep Association: https:// sleepassociation.org/ 

The Sleep Foundation: https://www. sleepfoundation.org/ 

BetterSleep – This is a popular app which incorporates relaxation techniques and good sleep hygiene: https://www.bettersleep.com” 

There’s no getting around it: Sleep is vital! Better sleep is absolute gold! 

The post BETTER BEAUTY SLEEP appeared first on RG Magazines.

The post Blast from the past appeared first on RG Magazines.

Matcha Mint Shampoo from Graydon
Lather up those tresses with this non-toxic shampoo infused with matcha tea to soften hair and prevent split ends. Free from all the naughty ingredients (SLS, sulphate and silicone), this light and creamy shampoo will leave you smelling irresistible – thanks to a light peppermint and vanilla scent.
Salt and Cedar (saltandcedar.bm)

Mad Hippie Hydrating Nutrient Mist 
Looking for a quick way to boost your skin’s overall health? This mist contains a host of nourishing ingredients (Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid and plant extracts) that not only hydrate, but brighten the complexion as well. Just mist onto clean skin before applying sunscreen or makeup. Salt and Cedar

Skin Perfecting Facial Cream
Simplify your daily routine by applying a generous layer of this natural CBD moisturizer by From Ever Since to skin. Instead of filling your cabinets with dozens of potions and lotions for different areas of the face, this one-hit wonder can save your vanity space and wallet. Its 100% plant-derived, preservative and paraben free. An added perk? It’s known to balance dryness and treat acne, all at the same time.
Naked Zero and online at fromeversince.com

Fitglow Vita-Active Foundation
This foundation not only covers imperfections, it also nourishes and brightens with skin loving ingredients like aloe leaf juice, rose hydrosol, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. It’s also 98% organic, cruelty free and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores). Available in nine shades (from Fair to Deep) at Salt and Cedar

From Ever Since Contour Serum
Fight the effects of sun damage and aging with this high performance and botanical rich serum. Formulated with Vitamin E, hydrolyzed collagen and a unique blend of plant and fruit extracts, the product helps to tighten and smooth tired skin. Perfect for those special occasions or when you want to be photo-ready but need a little extra lift…. no filter needed.
Naked Zero and online at fromeversince.com

This article was originally published in the Fall 2019 edition of RG Magazine. 

The post Nature’s best appeared first on RG Magazines.

From ancient times, we have always been about the serious business of enhancing what Nature gave us. In fact, the practice of beauty enhancement – and the equally stunning verse that it inspired – was evident over 6000 years ago, in Kemet (Egypt).  So, as humans have done all over the world, from the dawning of civilisation until the present moment, I’ll gather what I know about this ancient art and pass it on to you.

1. First off, beauty starts on the inside. Here, the adage “You are what you eat” applies. Bulk up on leafy greens, increase your water intake and reduce your consumption of sugar, dairy products and fried foods. Maintaining adequate hydration and consuming nutritious foods will translate into a glowing, pimple-free complexion.
2. Gua Shais known as an all-natural Botox alternative. It involves using a piece of jade or quartz and oil on the face. The jade is gently pressed upward and outward. The result?Capillaries burst, stimulating oxygenated blood flow and metabolic cell repair. Gua Sha instantly lifts and plumps the skin, smoothing existing lines and reducing wrinkles.
   
3. Rubbing ice on your face after cleansing constricts the pores and reduces excessive oil production. It’s also a great treatment for the dark or puffy area under the eyes, as the excess fluid that accumulates there is reabsorbed into the bloodstream.
4. Manuka honey is a natural humectant that contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide. It also aids in wound care and tissue repair because of its antiseptic, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It can be used to remove blemishes and dark marks or as a mask to restore your skin’s pH and moisture balance.
5. Aloe is a miracle plant that soothes, moisturises and heals and can be used to treat various skin ailments. And it’s likely growing in your backyard!
6. Chondrus Crispus, aka Irish Sea Moss, is a nutrient-dense food that is as beneficial externally as it is internally. Use the gel for the ultimate facemask, transforming yourself into the Divine beauty that you are.
7. When it comes to beauty, one of Bermuda’s best-kept secrets is Omni Medical & Laser Clinic. Located on Point Finger Road, Omni Medical & Laser Clinic provides a host of services, including photo rejuvenation, microdermabrasion, wrinkle and scar reduction and laser hair removal. Stop by sample their treatments – their knowledgeable and friendly staff will not disappoint!

[bio] Ava Pitt is a self-taught beauty and fashion maven.

Connect with Ava @Avarougie

The post Ancient skincare treats appeared first on RG Magazines.

Last year, the beauty industry made giant strides towards diversity. Although some industry professionals may hate to admit it, the 2017 release of Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty 40-shade foundation range spearheaded the movement that has set the standard and helped us to see more representation of people of all colours, shapes, sizes, genders and sexual orientations.

But it’s still just a start.

It came at a time when large brands such as Tarte, YSL, IT Cosmetics and even Beauty Blender were called out for their lack of shades and inclusivity in their products during this age of social media and the rise of influencer culture.

But is what has been dubbed the “Fenty effect” a trend or are we making real progress?

Just last month, luxury brand, Givenchy announced the launch of their new ‘Teint Couture Everywhere Foundation’ — with a shade range that can only be described as 20 shades of beige, featuring only two shades suitable for darker skin tones.

Although not surprising, the launch was disappointing nonetheless. Time and time again, companies have launched and produced products only suitable for lighter skin tones, often overlooking people of color and their spending power entirely.

Holding these brands accountable are none other than the members of the YouTube beauty community and their loyal (and sometimes aggressive) fans.

Influencers like Jackie Aina (NAACP YouTuber of the Year winner), Alissa Ashley, Patrick Starrr, and James Charles have been fighting for diversity from the start — making tremendous strides amongst the black and LGBTQ communities with inclusion, gender norms and non-conformity.

Jackie has worked with Too Faced to expand the shade ranges of its popular ‘Born This Way Foundation’ and Alissa has helped develop warmer shades for the drugstore brand, NYX and their ‘Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation’. Patrick was signed to MAC Cosmetics in 2017 has created five collections while James was the first male spokesmodel and brand ambassador for Covergirl — both proving that the men are here to stay.

Countless of controversies later, brands have seemingly not learned from their peers (and their own) mistakes. So, is it a mistake that stems from the way the industry has worked since it started? Or is it outrage marketing? After all, as the saying goes, “no publicity is bad publicity”. Even if it causes outrage, it does get major exposure for products that would often fly under the radar in an oversaturated industry. We might never know.

As consumers, we often forget the power we have — choosing where our hard-earned money goes to sends a message. It’s important that we use that power, even if the problem doesn’t affect us directly. Ultimately, the most important thing we can do is to support companies that are truly inclusive and leave behind those who want to stick to their prejudice and treat consumers of color as an afterthought.

The post Is there diversity in beauty? appeared first on RG Magazines.

By Annabel Cooper

While the first documented use of cosmetics dates back to Ancient Egypt, when both men and women wore kohl around their eyes and women would stain their cheeks with red paint, recent research suggests that as far back as the Stone Age, people may have been decorating their bodies.

Jump forward several thousand years and how have things changed? Do men and women still use cosmetics or cosmetic treatments to improve their appearance or do they prefer the well-known mantra of diet and exercise? How do they think they can achieve their best physical self?

A recent RG Magazine poll asked over 200 people in Bermuda whether they preferred a natural or cosmetic look and while over 90 per cent said they preferred to look natural, a significant number also said that they had either had or would consider having a cosmetic procedure. Almost 100 per cent of women said they use make-up and 87 per cent said they had had a cosmetic treatment done to their hair. In comparison, only 13 per cent of men said they had had a cosmetic hair treatment, but a further 7 per cent said they would consider it in the future.

“Traditionally men have been more private, and it was not thought macho to care about your appearance at all,” says Dr Benjamin Lau, Founder of the Omni Medical & Laser Clinic. “Men wouldn’t even appear at yoga studios. They would still hang out at the weight lifting section.” He explains however that the internet and social media has been largely responsible for a shift in views about what can be done to enhance physical appearance and that while women still make up the larger number of requests, more men are now starting to consider cosmetic services.

“Men are a growing segment of the non-invasive cosmetic treatments,” he says. “I think it’s because men are aware of their choices and there is a general shift towards personal health and quality of life for many younger people especially.

“Men, in particular, are very interested in hair restoration, which is maybe one of the largest cosmetic concerns that they pursue. I don’t see a big shift for men yet for fine lines or wrinkles, but I would not be surprised if that could change substantially in the next five or 10 years.”

Shameela Simons who is a Medical Aesthetic Nurse at Vida Medical Spa agrees that the number of men requesting cosmetic services is growing; however, most of her clients are still women. “Most of the time, men are just happy with the way they are,” she says.

Simons also explains that the prevalence of non-surgical options is boosting demand as well as the fact that people don’t actually look like they have had work done.

“People are more comfortable with having non-surgical options,” she says. “The more they see others doing it, they are pretty surprised that they look normal and natural. Even when I have clients that come in, the first thing they say is ‘I don’t want to look crazy, I don’t want to look puffy.’ My focus is to bring natural conservative changes over time.”

“Women want to look more beautiful, slow ageing, they seek services and products that reduce lines and wrinkles, restore any lost volume to their face, fat reduction and body contouring. They also want to remove unwanted hair.

“Men want to look more youthful, more masculine. They want products and procedures to reduce lines and wrinkles, remove unwanted hair, fat reduction and maintenance or gain of muscle mass.”

Also apparent from the poll is that while people are prepared to use cosmetics and cosmetic treatments to achieve a natural look, the majority of respondents appreciate the importance of diet and exercise to look and feel their best.

“Healthy living is becoming much more popular,” says Catherine Burns, Nutritional Therapist and Founder of Natural. “I think Men and women involved in sports have a similar approach. They understand that nutrition is an incredible differentiator that they can use to their advantage but outside of that there’s probably more of a divide.”

Burns explains that women have more emotional baggage when it comes to food and their bodies but that they tend to be more proactive than men, however she has seen a shift recently:

“90 per cent of my group clients are female, but I’ve had an increasing number of guys coming in lately for a one-to-one consultation. Women are way more comfortable in a group setting than men.”

Monroe Darrell, Fitness Instructor and Owner of M-CORE says that all his clients view exercise as an asset to their life: “For the gentlemen I work with, they recognise the improvement to their health. For the majority of women, I work with, they have always had a stronger sense of their health and wellbeing. They often want to lose some weight and I find them to be more disciplined.”

Darrell said that personally, the natural look works well for him but he did point out that “nowadays, the cosmetic is so good you don’t know if it’s real or fake!”

This article was originally published in the Spring 2019 edition of RG Magazine.

The post Natural vs. Cosmetic appeared first on RG Magazines.

The temperature has finally dropped to the 60s, which means it’s Bermuda winter time. During this time of the year, our skin usually requires a little extra love, and a product rotation to contrast the high winds and low humidity. Here are some of our skincare favourites to keep that summer-glow year-round.

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen

Fun Fact: Earth is the closest to the sun during the winter months, so don’t put away your sunscreen just yet (or ever). Though you might think of it as a summer/warm weather product, sunscreen should really be a part of your skin care routine, even if you’re staying indoors all day. Not only does it protect you from skin cancer, but it also prevents premature wrinkles and hyper-pigmentation. The Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen has an award-winning formula that is light-weight and doesn’t leave the usual “white-cast” that most sunscreens do. You can find this at Atelerie.

Aura Coconut & Oat Milk Bath

Bath soaks are great to relax, detox, relieve cold symptoms, help you sleep better, and they are the ultimate way to re-hydrate your skin all over. The Aura Coconut & Oat Milk Bath has a rich moisturising formula, perfect to soothe your skin during the low-humidity months. Oat Milk, in particular, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which soothe dry and itchy skin, and it can even help alleviate eczema symptoms. You can find this at Urban Cottage.

Bio-Oil

Face oils are especially effective during the winter months due to lower humidity, and help the skin to retain moisture. This rich face-and-body oil contains Vitamin E and Vitamin A, improves the skin’s elasticity, as well as working wonders hydrating your skin. Even celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Priyanka Chopra swear by it. You can find this at Local Pharmacies like People’s, Phoenix and Robertson’s.

Simple Water Boost Hydrating Sheet Mask

Notice a theme? Here’s another hydrating product. Winter in Bermuda comes with strong winds and therefore, dry and flaky skin. This hydrating sheet mask is a lifesaver when it comes to re-hydrating the skin, especially after a day on the bike with gusts a blowing and too much salt spray. Once or twice a week does the trick to prevent dry and cracked skin. You can find this at Local Pharmacies like People’s, Phoenix and Robertson’s.

Dior Lip Glow

Although lip balm is an obvious essential, and they all seem to do the trick, this one definitely takes first place for us. Dior Lip Glow is definitely a step up from your regular Chapstick and you only get to notice just how good it is during the winter months. It comes in a variety of shades and finishes, including the original (and our personal favourite) Pink Glow. You can find this at Gibbon’s Company.

Take care of that beautiful skin you’re in!

Looking for more local fabulous and organic skincare products, find them here.

The post 5 Skincare Favourites That Are Essential for Bermuda Winter appeared first on RG Magazines.

We’ve been seeing a lot of bold looks that are great for every day, can easily be duplicated and still send a strong message of personality. The practical look is in, lately, we’re seeing short and natural, oval shapes and low-square tips take over Front Street fashion. But don’t worry, the vibrant and innovative nail colour and designs make up for length. We’ll help you nail it for 2019.

New shades of neutrals and nudes

For anyone who enjoys simple elegance, you’ll be happy to hear that this winter season guarantees neutrals in new shades. We feel confident that soft, translucent pinks are here to stay, but we’d like to add our love for taupe, beige, and even an olive green as the colours that are going to take us into 2019.

Glitter nails

Throughout the holiday season and beyond! We’ve seen glitter, but now we can expect more boldness with the transitioning technique from one finger to the next. Whether it’s just the tips, one accent nail, or all ten fingers, tell the world how you really feel inside with mesmerizing glitter nails.

Futuristic Metallics

Matching a metallic olive shade or silver chrome finish with your favourite eye look is all the rave. Add a pop of surprise by colouring just the tips in your favourite coral, blue, or aquamarine.

Matte nail polish

We watched closely as matte made it through 2018, and we’re pushing it into the new year. Who ever said that we had to stick to one colour? Buy a different matte shade for each finger and make the statement that you were born to make. From muted to cobalt blue, no one said that you had to choose.

Half-moon cuticle manicures

Get creative with a half-moon detail at the cuticle of the nail. We’re watching as trailblazers, nails medium length, are leaving a half moon of cuticle with a lack of polish. Make it subtle by painting the rest of your nails in your favourite selections from pale hues – naturals and nudes.

Here are some local  salons that can help you nail your festive looks:

Kōt Nail Studio 

#3 quarry lane , Khyber Pass Warwick , WK01

http://kotnailstudio.mysalononline.com/

Instagram –  @kotnailstudio

441-595-8038

Expect passion, energy, creativity and mostly expect quality at Kot!

Genet Lure

6 Walker Arcade, 12 Reid Street, Hamilton HM 11

www.genetlure.com

Instagram: @Genetluresalon

Facebook: Genet Lure Salon

(441) 295-4304

A sophisticated environment where glam meets zen

Bella Bella Nail Studio

20 Ewing St, Pembroke, Hamilton HM 17

www.bellabellanails.com

Instagram: @bellabella.nails

Facebook: Bella Bella Nails

(441) 232-2446

Serving beautiful people in a relaxed atmosphere with consistently quality service

Yunique Nails

Address: Call for details

Instagram: @yuniquenails

(441) 707-6245

Yunique Nails where a unique style is created for you.

The post Nail it for 2019: Trends Straight From the Runway appeared first on RG Magazines.

Resolve to be adventurous in 2019! There are plenty of exciting colour trends. We are moving to brighter hues with a variation of fusion colours, colour placements and brighter accent tones in luxurious reds, vibrant purples, a mix of copper blends, ocean-inspired tones. It’s limitless. 

The woman’s attitude is shifting from fun and flirty to strong and confident, and the hair colour is coming along with it. There are so many ways you can fuse hair colour into your style by adding fun textures and layers. Precision cutting, a method that uses techniques that create straight, dramatic lines and clean angles, is the future and is key for any signature look.

Colour Trends:

Red

Purple

Yellow

Copper

Blue

Variation of Blonds – No Limits

Playful Pastel Tones

Cutting Trends:

Blunts

Textured Lobs (Long Bobs)

Micro Fringes ‘Baby Bangs’

Geometric Lines & Shapes

Styling Trends: 

Long Braids

Wet Look

Sleek & Polished Looks

Natural Beachy Waves

70’s Inspired Looks

Plaits in all Styles

Hair Accessories

For the latest TK hair trends, connect:

Insta: @Tkhairgroup

Web: tkhairgroup.com

Hair by: Tanju Kurt, Creative Director

The post Beauty: Tanju Kurt Tells Us What to Expect in Hair for 2019 appeared first on RG Magazines.

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