Blessed to see the start of another year, I want to wish all of you a happy, healthy, prosperous new year. The start of a new year is like wiping a slate clean. New beginnings, with so much opportunities. I remember last year's ideas and strategies for healthy hair and length retention. Of course, there were plenty more categories that strategies and planning were put in place for self advancement, but there is not enough time in the year to cover all of those categories! Pertaining to hair growth & length retention, I've got a few fool-proof ideas for success in 2013, won't you join me!
Last year, I wanted to see length retention of 6''. I do believe I captured that.
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| March 2012 |
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| November 2012 |
In 8 months time (March 2012 through November 2012), I was able to keep a length gain of at least four inches. In the month of March, the longest lengths reach to the bottom of my bra strap. In the month of November, the longest length reaches approximately 3.5'' below my bra strap. I love how evenly everything is trying to grow. I don't think my hair will ever grow blunt (I wonder if anyone's does). My hair always grows into a "v" shape. I don't mind, as long as I'm not getting any breakage.
So what are my plans for 2013 and reaching waist length?
I can't believe it, but I could very well reach waist length this year! I'm about 4 inches away from having waist length tresses! I've put together a plan, and I'll share it with you.
- Detangle only during deep conditioning treatment (1x week)
- Low manipulation styling (braidout/twistout worn all week until wash day, 2 strand twists, buns, etc)
- Scalp massages (3x week). I have a tool that I use, will link it below. Scalp massaging feels like it stimulates blood circulation (which is very welcomed by the scalp for hair growth encouragement).
- Keeping my scalp clean (I use amla paste for cleansing my hair and face)
- No heat. I don't even feel like I need it anymore (Yeah, I was previously tempted from time to time). Now I will probably only put heat on my hair during my birthday and at the end of the year.
- Trim only as needed
- Steaming 2x week (helps with moisture levels/maintaining moisture)
- Just have fun while it's growing!
- Oops, almost forgot--cardiovascular exercises!
I love my scalp massager. I got mines from the mall a few years ago, and paid about $10.00, but it's a good quality one. I see there are cheap ones for sale--don't bother, if the balls are not right or the "prongs" are not copper, it won't have the same effect. I found this one on Amazon, alongside lots of junkie ones, and this looks similar to the one I've been using. It's got nice size balls at the end of the massager, and a nice, sturdy handle.
I use mine every other day, and will probably get hubby to massage my head with it, for that extreme spa experience! LOL Add the oil of your choice (like olive or coconut--or even an ayurveda blend), and you can't go wrong. If you don't have one yet, check it out--hey, you deserve some relaxation and "tingle time" :o)
This one has great reviews, and I see the product description--which gave me some good ideas on other ways to use mine. The benefits of massage scalp are numerous.
- Definitely a stress reliever.
- Also known to strengthen hair follicles (great for anyone experiencing weak hair strands, lots of shedding).
- Helps relieve tension headaches (It does work--I've tried it).
- The little balls at the end of the massager manage to get all the way to my scalp (a place where my combs and brushes have not been able to reach in a while) LOL!
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
Basically it is a low tech (no batteries, accessories or complicated instructions) copper handle with 10 flexible copper soft tipped copper wires. Here is the technique suggested by the Tingler manufacturer: Open, and bend the Tingler's wires in the shape of a pumpkin... think of the tines as long, thin fingers - allow them to gently, with no effort, graze your partner's head. The looser the fingers, the more goosebumpy or tickly the effect. Tinglers. If you're looking for a head scratch, just tighten the fingers. Slowly, lower the Tingler on the head, watch out for eyes, let the fingers touch the back of the ears, top of the neck, and up again - twist, turn, or let the fingers touch the top of the head and forehead. Make sure that you can see your partner's eyes, so you can easily avoid them. Don't jab, push hard, use to much effort, or try to overly control the movement of the Tingler. Less is more! Play, ask each other what feels good... it makes friends of strangers - take your Tingler to parties, gatherings, work, school, etc... To massage your BODY - instead of shaping the Tingler in a pumpkin or circle make it into a semi-circle, or rake, or think of it as an open hand with long fingernails - then gently touch your partner's back, arms, legs, necks, etc... great on skin or thin clothing
