BLOG 307: WATER IS MY HEALER: HOW IT POWERS MY LIFE, BIRTHS, AND SELF-CARE RITUALS

Water has always been an integral part of my life - so much so that it feels like it’s woven into the very fabric of my being. As a Pisces, my astrological sun sign, I’ve always been drawn to the fluid, intuitive energy of water. It’s no surprise to me that, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, my dominant element is also water. There's an undeniable connection I have with it.

Growing Up by the Sea

I grew up by the sea, and since then has always felt like my sanctuary. There’s something incredibly healing about being near water - it calms the mind, soothes the soul, and clears the clutter from within. This isn't just anecdotal; scientific studies have shown that being near water can have profound effects on mental health. In fact, research from the University of Exeter found that simply living by the coast can improve mental wellbeing and lower levels of stress. There’s a tangible connection between our bodies and the natural world, and for me, that connection has always been through water.

The Births of My Daughters

Water has played a pivotal role in the most significant moments of my life, including the births of both my daughters. With my youngest, Lilia, I chose a home birth and brought her into the world in a birthing pool. The warm, soothing water helped me remain calm and centred throughout my labour. For my eldest, Lucia, I spent 17 hours in a warm pool during labour, where the water seemed to ease my body and spirit, making the experience feel more serene and empowering. Although after many more hours I had a hospital birth, the fact I had water to ease my pain for so long leading up to that felt so comforting.

Water has a remarkable way of easing pain and reducing stress, a fact backed by scientific research. Studies have shown that immersion in warm water can reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), lower blood pressure, and promote a sense of relaxation. For me, it was more than just physical relief; it was about creating an environment of peace and connection, a sacred space for new life to enter.

Water: A Healer 

In times of emotional overwhelm or stress, water is my instinctive refuge. When life feels heavy, or when my emotions are running high, a warm bath or a shower can work wonders to restore balance. Although I grew up by the sea, for the past 25 years I only see the sea every month or so on visits to the coast. However, the city I call home - Bath, UK - isn't by the sea yet water here has a historical and cultural meaning. The ancient Romans believed that bathing in natural thermal springs of Bath had therapeutic properties, and modern studies have continued to confirm that thermal baths can improve circulation, relieve tension, and promote skin health. I go a few times a week to the thermal waters here in Bath and bathe in the beautiful healing spa.

Connecting to the Element of Water

There’s something incredibly nurturing about water that goes beyond its physical properties. When I stand by the sea, or sit by a quiet river or lake, I feel an innate sense of calm and clarity. It’s as if the water’s movement mirrors the flow I want to embrace in my own life - letting go of resistance, allowing things to unfold, and flowing with life instead of against it. This sense of surrender to the natural rhythm of life is something that I carry with me, especially in my approach to Face Yoga and holistic wellness.

Water teaches us to flow, to cleanse, and to renew. In the world of Face Yoga, I often speak about the importance of releasing tension from the body and face, much like how water can wash away stress. Just as we can hydrate our skin from the inside out, water also nourishes us on a deeper level, cleansing not just our bodies but our emotions, thoughts, and energies.

A Holistic Approach to Wellness

Of course, while water is an essential element, it’s just one part of the holistic approach I take to wellness. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate how different elements - water, earth, air, and fire - nourish us in different ways. But water, for me, has always felt like the most direct channel to self-awareness and deep healing.

This holistic approach to wellness is something I weave into my Face Yoga practice, too. Hydration is key to healthy skin, but so is relaxation and rejuvenation. When we combine Face Yoga with the calming benefits of water, we allow ourselves to truly replenish - not just our skin, but our entire being. Taking the time to immerse yourself in water, whether through a ritual bath or simply soaking your feet in warm water after a long day, is a simple but powerful way to integrate the healing properties of this element into your self-care routine.

Water: The Element of Inner Balance 

Water is my constant reminder to flow with life, to cleanse away what no longer serves me, and to reconnect with my inner peace. It teaches me that beauty, both internal and external, comes from a place of calm, balance, and acceptance. In my experience, water is a teacher. It shows us the power of flexibility, the importance of letting go, and the art of stillness.

It’s easy to become caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, but when we take a moment to immerse ourselves in water - whether through a mindful bath, a walk by the ocean, or simply hydrating throughout the day - we allow ourselves the space to reset, recharge, and reconnect to the deepest part of who we are.

To learn more about Face Yoga, wellness and finding inner peace. you can use my course, The Face Yoga Retreat Bundle, which is four retreats of three hours each, which include classes on Face Yoga, Gua Sha, Yoga, Meditation, Sound Healing and wellness hacks. Perfect if you want to go deeper into all aspects of Face Yoga, natural health and beauty for your face, body and mind and is only £61.