Saunday World

Get to know the Nordic Super Naturals From pine and blueberry to chaga and Siberian ginseng – we delve into the remarkable benefits of nature's ancient, adaptogenic plant power. Conditions can be extreme in the northernmost forest ecosystems on Earth. But it is precisely these frozen winters, harsh winds, and lack of daylight that create habitats in which flora and fauna not only survive but adapt and thrive. The ability to adapt to such conditions – whether the scorching heat of the desert or the icy cold of the Arctic – gives rise to a special type of plant: plants that respond to environmental stress with biochemical strategies, thereby building their own resilience, vitality and health. These plants – from ancient medicinal mushrooms like lion's mane and reishi, to Ayurvedic herbs like shatavari and ashwagandha, to traditional Nordic plants like bilberry and chaga – are so-called adaptogens . This means they help the body adapt better to stress, balance metabolic processes, and holistically promote the balance of body and mind. The magic of Nordic nature – the inspiration behind Forest Spa Finland The way plants thrive in harsh climates is our daily inspiration. Forest Spa Finland creates highly effective, natural products that strengthen skin and well-being with the ancient wisdom of adaptogenic intelligence and resilience. Adapted over centuries to harsh winters, clear waters and clean, oxygen-rich air, Nordic flora is rich in antioxidants and unique adaptogens that have been used for centuries for health, longevity and natural beauty. We harvest these plants carefully and sustainably, bringing their healing properties directly to your skin, body and mind. Our Nordic Super_Naturals at a glance Bilberry Blueberries are rich in vitamin C, minerals, and anthocyanins—powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. Studies show that oral intake improves skin elasticity and gives the complexion a radiant glow—especially in postmenopausal women. They also contain quercetin, which reduces allergic reactions and protects cells. BIRCH JUICE Instead of water, we use revitalizing birch sap in our Nordic Adaptogen Serum – a natural source of vitamin C, trace elements, and antioxidants. The sap has a calming, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory effect. A 2023 study showed that birch water reduces tyrosinase activity and melanin production – without irritating the skin. CHAGA This powerful medicinal mushroom grows on birch trees in northern regions. Chaga is the king of adaptogens – potently anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting. Studies show that it protects cells from oxidative stress, enhances communication between immune cells (cytokines), and naturally supports the immune system. Cloudberry Our golden wild berries come from the bogs of Lapland. They are rich in beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), vitamins C and E, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, and ellagic acid – a powerful antioxidant with skin-soothing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Pine bark Pine bark has been valued for its healing properties for centuries. It strengthens the immune system, supports wound healing, and has been proven to increase skin elasticity and the production of natural hyaluronic acid – ideal for combating the first signs of skin aging. RHODIOLA ROSEA (Rhodiola rosea) Also known as the "Arctic Rose," this plant grows in extremely cold regions. It supports collagen and elastin production, protects against UVA-induced oxidative stress, and helps prevent skin aging. At the same time, it promotes skin elasticity and regeneration. SANDAL OIL (Sea Buckthorn Oil) Rich in omega fatty acids (3, 6, 7, 9) as well as vitamins A, C and E – in concentrations up to 10 times higher than in oranges. Sea buckthorn oil regenerates the skin, reduces acne, regulates sebum production and diminishes discoloration caused by environmental factors. SIBERIAN GINSENG (Eleuthero) A proven tonic for fatigue and a strong immune system. Siberian ginseng protects against colds, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties – all without the side effects of caffeine. Ideal for exhaustion and strengthening the immune system in winter. Spruce resin (Spruce Knot) Extracted from the northern European spruce, this resin contains strong antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It regulates sebum production, soothes blemished skin, and supports natural skin healing – perfect for acne-prone skin. How do adaptogens actually work? For a substance to be considered an adaptogen, it must meet the following criteria according to the 1957 definition (II Brekhman, Russian pharmacologist): It must be non-toxic and not disrupt normal bodily functions. It must have a non-specific effect – that is, increase resistance to physical, chemical, or biological stressors. It is intended to have a normalizing effect on the body system – regardless of the direction of the disturbance. Adaptogens work almost like magic – they regulate what's out of balance. They increase what's too low and lower what's too high. And all this with minimal intervention and high tolerability. In a time when we are confronted with stress on a daily basis, adaptogens help us to regenerate better, persevere and stay healthy in the long term. Discover our daily adaptogenic immune boost – in the form of a supplement – ​​as well as our serum to promote skin resilience.

On World Happiness Day 2024, Finland was awarded the coveted title of "Happiest Country in the World" for the seventh time in a row by the World Happiness Report. Well, Finland might not have been your first guess for the winner of this prize – we all know about its long, cold winters. But let's take a look at what makes our Finland such a happy country to live in – and what we can learn from it: 1. Proximity to nature Finland is a forested country – with 70% of its land area covered by forest, the connection to nature is palpable. Many Finns own a "mökki," a summer cottage in the woods, often situated by a lake, where they regularly find peace and recharge their batteries – and who wouldn't feel content there? 2. Regular sauna visits A time-honored health and wellness booster: The Finns have always enjoyed the benefits of the sauna. It helps with many ailments, promotes blood circulation, and, above all, reduces stress. Most Finns have access to a sauna in their house or apartment building and use it regularly. This is just one aspect of the Finns' very active and holistic approach to health and well-being. 3. Perception of happiness Well, Finns aren't exactly known for their exuberant cheerfulness. But this isn't about laughing and dancing in the streets. Finns see their personal well-being and contentment as the true measure of happiness – and therein lies the real secret. Whether it's not seeing professional success as the sole measure, not being the last to leave the office, or ensuring that one's salary covers all necessities in life (and not just desires) – these are the true indicators. 4. Social awareness Finland has some of the most open and supportive social policies in the world. And while Finns know they are contributing a little more of their monthly salary, they also understand that the benefits for society as a whole are paramount and a shared responsibility. These shared values ​​and respect for equality lead to a positive sense of satisfaction. 5. “Kalsarikännit” Our personal favorite – and probably the real reason for winning the title – literally means: “Drinking at home alone in your underwear” – and being completely satisfied! Our newest brand , FOREST SPA FINLAND, has been inspired by all these aspects and is proud to produce products that bring a little bit of Finnish happiness to your skin and well-being – so you can feel the benefits anywhere in the world, every day.

We asked Jenny Jungell, performance coach and founder of the Well Community, how stress and lifestyle can affect our skin. Here, Jenny shares her tips and some personal insights on how to create a more holistic balance in everyday life. Life shows on our skin: every good and bad habit, stress, laughter, and joy. The skin is the body's largest organ and, among other things, aids in the detoxification process. It helps remove impurities from the skin that can lead to breakouts. Taking holistic care of our health and well-being is essential to feeling our best, and this also applies to our skincare. By this, I mean caring for your skin not only externally with good, high-quality skincare products, but also internally by taking care of your gut health, your diet, your lymphatic system, and getting enough sleep. The most noticeable changes usually occur when we begin nourishing our skin cells from the inside. The skin we live in is forever, so it's important that we feel good in it—which is often easier said than done. I know, I've experienced it myself. When we understand the connection between body and mind, we can be gentler with ourselves and become aware of the root cause of our skin problems. I believe this is where we need to start if we want to make a change, not just regarding our skin, but our overall well-being. A common cause of skin problems is stress, which is so easily forgotten. We often don't realize how stressed we are until it takes its toll (and our hectic modern lives don't leave much room for rested, radiant skin). Chronic stress disrupts the natural balance for optimal well-being, and finding ways to reduce stress is crucial. Not to mention how stress affects our hormones, which in turn can affect our skin.   "It's important to find the root cause of your skin's triggers. I've realized that stress is one of my worst triggers for breakouts." For me, this means, among other things, becoming aware of my stress levels, knowing my triggers, and knowing how to a) minimize them and b) calm my body and mind. When my stress levels get too high or I feel my body firing on all cylinders, I actively try to minimize or avoid things like alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and high-intensity exercise. All of these things create more stress in the body, and we don't want that when we're already in a stressful state. Instead, a walk in nature or yoga, chamomile tea, or matcha might be a better choice. Remember that we are all different, and what is a trigger for me may not necessarily be a trigger for you. Other triggers I've found in working with my clients include dairy and gluten; another major trigger is your gut health. If you're consistently having issues with your skin and can't figure out what's causing it, I highly recommend checking your gut health. We can't escape stressors, but we can learn how to respond to them. We can create a kinder lifestyle for our skin and our overall well-being. Growing up in the Nordic countries, I've had the luxury of being close to nature my entire life. Spending time outdoors and in nature has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve mood. For me My daily walks by the sea are an instant stress reliever. Did you know that contact with water has been proven to put us into a meditative state, making us happier, calmer, and more awe-inspiring? I know many don't have the opportunity to be in nature daily, but we can all do something for our overall well-being. Our daily lives impact the health of our skin, and even with small daily actions that soothe and nourish our bodies and minds, we can improve our overall health and our skin. Here are some simple steps you can take: Beauty sleep – Your body – including your skin – repairs and renews itself overnight. Good sleep is important for healthy skin; beauty sleep isn't just a saying. Develop a mindfulness practice - Daily mindfulness exercises, meditation, or breathing exercises can also help calm your skin. It will primarily reduce your stress levels, but this can also affect your inflammation levels, which in turn can have a positive effect on your skin. Eat healthy and drink enough - give your body and skin the right tools to grow and develop. In addition to these tips, a good skincare routine and high-quality supplements can support you on your journey. The Nordic Adaptogen supplement from Forest Spa Finland helps your skin, boosts your mood and energy, and helps reduce stress levels. Harnessing the power of Nordic nature, the supplement is made with chaga mushroom, Rhodiola rosea, wild blueberry, and pine bark. If you haven't heard about these benefits yet, don't worry, I'll tell you. Chaga mushroom: Chaga mushrooms have the highest ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbent Capacity) value for antioxidants ever measured in a natural food. Chaga can help reduce inflammation, which is directly linked to skin health. Other benefits include firming and anti-aging, protecting cells from external stressors, and reducing acne, eczema, and rashes. Rhodiola Rosea: Rhodiola grows in cold regions and at high altitudes in Europe and Asia. Rhodiola has long been used as a natural substance that can increase the body's resistance to stress. It can help tighten and improve lines, wrinkles, and pores, and support cell protection to combat skin fatigue. Wild blueberry: Wild blueberries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, zinc, and vitamins A, B, C, and K—you could call them nutritional powerhouses. They can help with acne, brightening, and natural anti-aging. Pine bark: Pine bark is an incredibly powerful source of vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q10, and alpha lipoic acid. It is particularly rich in plant compounds called polyphenols, which have numerous health-promoting effects. It boosts natural hyaluronic acid production (hydrates the skin), improves elasticity, reduces skin fatigue, and improves lines and wrinkles. "An inside-out approach to skincare is something we all need to embrace more. In addition to the dietary supplement, Forest Spa Finland recently launched its Nordic Adaptogen Serum launched on the market . With the highest potency of natural adaptogens proven to support and protect the complexion, the super-natural Nordic Adaptogen Serum promotes renewed radiance and optimal skin health. As I mentioned earlier, stress has a direct impact on our skin, and that's where this serum comes to the rescue. It's specifically formulated to counteract the effects of stress on our skin by strengthening the skin barrier, enhancing skin radiance, and calming the skin and mind (the mind-body connection). The serum imparts a beautiful, healthy glow and soothes the skin. I love the philosophy of Forest Spa Finland; an inside-out approach to skincare is something we all need to embrace more. If you're struggling with your skin, remember that it's a journey and won't happen overnight. The most important thing is to be patient and kind to yourself—remember that beauty comes from within. Jenny Jungell Performance Coach | Founder https://thewell-community.com/ @die_wellcommunity

We're all familiar with the cycle, stress, work, hectic lifestyles, and many other factors that can take a toll on our skin. We sat down with top nutritionist, podcaster, and wellness coach Brittany Ford, aka @biohackingbrittany, to talk about the stress skin response and her advice on how to combat it. Read the biohacker approach to have the best skin of your life: Radiant skin starts from within—a concept I return to time and again. Not only our diet, supplements, environment, hydration, and lifestyle influence how healthy our skin is, but our mental health, stress, and hormones also play a significant role. As I've previously shared on my podcast and Instagram account, at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, I experienced serious acne for the first time (not just a pimple here and there), which triggered a new level of anxiety, depression, and stress I'd never experienced before. I had tiny bumps on my chin, cheeks, and forehead. I was so embarrassed! I wondered, "How could a biohacker and nutritionist have such unhealthy skin?" This affected my willingness to go out in public, participate in activities, and create online content, leading to me being less physically active and social, which in turn caused more anxiety and stress. Healing our skin from within Mental health plays a significant role in skin issues, especially when they're new and unfamiliar. Therefore, healing skin requires a holistic approach: You can't simply fix it with an expensive serum; you have to heal it from within, taking into account your mental health and stress. Whether it's acne, redness, eczema, skin texture, melasma, or another common skin concern I hear about or my clients experience, there's always an underlying cause, usually related to your gut or hormones. Stress impairs our ability to maintain a healthy gut and balanced hormones, both of which can cause skin problems. When we're stressed, we have difficulty digesting our food properly, leading to many problems in the gut, including protein fermentation, dysbiosis, and leaky gut. This digestive stress can easily manifest itself in our skin. Chronic stress also disrupts our natural cortisol production, negatively impacts our blood sugar levels, and can cause fluctuations in sex hormones. These fluctuations usually manifest as acne or a bumpy texture on my chin and between my eyebrows. Unfortunately, I struggled with these exact issues in 2020. I was dealing with hormonal fluctuations due to my irregular menstrual cycle and stress from the pandemic, which caused my skin to break out and stressed me even more. As a result, I needed to address the root cause of my skin issues and take a holistic approach to healing. Eating right is a must Healthy skin starts from the inside, including the types of food and drinks we consume every day. Whether you consume only plants or a mix of plants and animals (or even only animals, which is becoming increasingly popular), the quality of what you eat matters. Choosing whole foods over processed foods is a good start. If your pantry is fuller than your fridge, you're probably eating too many processed foods like cookies, chips, cereal, bars, and baked goods. Instead, we should strive for a fridge full of fresh and frozen vegetables, fruit, eggs, animal protein, milk, butter, and homemade meals. The quality of our food is also important, ensuring it's not contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, additives, or preservatives, or made from GMOs. When it comes to food, make sure it's organic, local, and seasonal whenever possible. An easy way to do this is to follow the "Dirty Dozen" guide, which lists the twelve foods you should always buy organic due to their high levels of chemical residues. This makes buying organic more affordable, as not every item you buy has to be organic. When it comes to animal products, look for grass-fed (and even grass-fed, if possible), local, antibiotic-free, and hormone-free products. There are many food delivery services that deliver high-quality meat directly to your door! Research the best sources for you. By choosing high-quality, natural, and clean foods, we reduce the stress our bodies experience while eating and provide them with the nutrients they need to function properly. This, in turn, promotes healthy, radiant skin. High-quality dietary supplements make the difference In addition to what we eat, we can choose supplements that support skin elasticity from within. These aren't just specific vitamins or minerals for the skin, but ingredients that target stress management and hormonal balance, leading to more radiant skin. Adaptogens are perfect for this, as they support homeostasis and target the balance of all hormones in the body. Therefore, taking supplements that support mental well-being and general stress in the body is an important part of a holistic healing approach. I recommend taking supplements that balance hormones, such as chaga, blueberry, rhodiola, and pine bark. Chaga mushroom protects against common skin reactions to stress, and rhodiola rosea helps repair skin, energize the body, and restore hormonal balance. Wild blueberry brightens, nourishes, and awakens the skin, while pine bark firms, hydrates, and evenly tones the skin. Piperine also strengthens the skin and contributes to more resilient skin. The world of supplements can be overwhelming! Therefore, look for authenticity and transparency in a brand (no hidden additives or preservatives), easily absorbed ingredients, and a brand that enjoys an excellent reputation among its customers. My favorite skin supplement brand is Forest Spa Finland, a company based on these principles that heals the skin by addressing the root cause of stress. Maintaining a healthy body and mind takes a lot of self-confidence, effort, and time, and that applies to our skin as well. Deciding to make healthy choices every day can be challenging, but the rewards for our skin are worth it every time. While I focus on eating whole foods, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing my stress, I also make it a priority to take the right supplements to support my skin from within. Start your wellness journey now! Food supplements from FOREST SPA FINLAND

We all feel stressed from time to time. Life isn't easy, and we often find ourselves under pressure, which causes our bodies to release stress hormones. This release of hormones doesn't always cause long-term damage. In fact, they can often help us. They can give us the adrenaline we need to make it through the last few minutes of a sports class or give us the extra boost to give a presentation. Afterward, our bodies calm down and our hormones regulate themselves. However, when our bodies are exposed to frequent stress over extended periods, it can have long-term effects that compromise both our mental and physical health. This also applies to the condition of our skin. At Forest Spa Finland, we are interested in how adaptogens can help combat the effects of stress on our skin and our well-being. In this blog, we will explore the science behind stress, how it can affect us, and how we can better respond to it. Why does our body produce stress hormones? Our body produces certain hormones when we are stressed because it perceives this stress as a threat. Evolutionary science shows us that these stress hormones, known as "fight or flight" hormones, have helped us survive in dangerous situations. Our sympathetic nervous system is activated, and we may notice all sorts of symptoms. For example, our heart rate may increase to provide our body with the energy and oxygen it needs to respond quickly to danger. We may notice that we begin to shake because our muscles are tensing in fight-or-flight mode. We know that this survival response doesn't always correspond with the severity of the situation. In reality, our body rarely needs to react this way. Rather, these symptoms can overshadow our rational thinking and exacerbate our response. This is likely to make the situation much worse and more stressful. How does stress affect the skin? The stress hormones released in our bodies can affect the health and appearance of our skin. These hormones usually direct immune cells from the bloodstream to the skin or stimulate inflammatory skin cells. This increased inflammation can then trigger countless skin problems. These skin problems include: - Skin irritations - including itchy rashes and dry skin patches - Rosacea - typically this manifests as blushing or reddening of the skin, as well as visible blood vessels on the face - Acne breakouts - especially if the skin is already prone to hormonal acne or long-term acne - Dullness of the skin - the skin lacks radiance and its structure may become uneven - Accelerated signs of skin aging - including fine lines and wrinkles, age spots, dryness and a rough texture. Aside from the skin problems mentioned above, we're also likely to feel unwell when we're stressed. This feeling can then trigger negative lifestyle habits, such as touching our faces more often, not making time for skincare routines, poor nutrition, or lack of sleep. How to help stress-plagued skin There are many ways to combat stress. Small steps like taking supplements can reduce the intensity of stress hormones in your body and promote better immunity by regulating hormonal responses. Our supplements are designed to easily incorporate the power of adaptogens into your routine to help you feel your best. For more information, follow us on @forest_spa_finland or order your first supply of our innovative Nordic Adaptogen Supplement. Many people also find short periods of regular meditation and mindfulness helpful. Others discover the benefits of talk therapy or other mental health interventions to change their mindset about the situations that cause them stress. Supplements can also be taken alongside these lifestyle changes to support an overall healthier response to stress. When our bodies are able to suppress and regulate stress hormones, our bodies, minds, and skin respond accordingly. We've spent a long time researching how to do this in Finland. Our supplements, known for their natural remedies and holistic approach to wellness, use adaptogens derived from the purest Nordic forest plants to regulate the body's response to stress. Because when our entire system is affected by stress hormones, it's worth defending our bodies against their effects. FOREST SPA FINLAND 's supplements are designed to easily incorporate the power of adaptogens into your routine to help you feel your best. For more information, follow us on @saundaycom or order your first delivery of the innovative Nordic Adaptogen Supplement.