Featuring Rachel Harmon
Photo provided by Rachel Harmon
What is your name? Rachel Harmon
How old are you? 29
Where are you from? Bainbridge Island, Wa
What is your background? Dual track ND and MSAOM student at Bastyr University, graduating this Spring, yahoo!
In a few sentences, tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do: I integrate Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs, and Fascial Counterstrain into a holistic care practice that focuses on patient empowerment and treating the root cause of dysfunction. I am also grateful to be working as a research coordinator for the Bridge Back Project, where we study the effects of Counterstrain on veterans, first responders, and active duty military members with PTSD. A PNW native, I spend my precious few spare hours playing in the mountains and foraging in the forest.
What are you currently doing for hair health and care? To be honest, not much! I like to keep things simple, and as a current medical student, I don't have a lot of time for self-care. My main strategy for all things beauty is a healthy diet rich in colors and quality protein, lots of water, exercise, and stress management. I get lots of movement on the weekends splitboarding or mountain biking, which is great for managing stress and increasing circulation. I also sauna 3 days a week at my gym. I'm a big believer in hydrotherapy so during this time I like to alternate between the cedar dry sauna and cold showers. I always end my showers on cold to increase blood flow. Other than that, I wash it once a week with an herbal shampoo and conditioner, brush with a bamboo brush between workouts or episodes of helmet hair, and try to keep my hair tucked inside my jacket when it's below freezing in the mountains to it doesn't break off.. :)
Are you using any natural hair products (if yes, what are they and what do you like or not like about them)? I like to put some rosemary-infused olive oil in my hair and massage it into my roots about once per week, usually while I study for the extra memory support. I also use a helichrysum hydrosol as a topical spray on my face and hair whenever I feel like I need a "boost". I find this adds a little more shine to my locks.
What works well for you and what doesn’t? I try to stay away from heat and styling products, and embrace the natural body and curls that the PNW weather provides.
What do you like about your hair and what has taken some time for you to accept about your hair? I guess I like that my hair is still intact after 5 years of grad school! My hair is fine, but there is a lot of it. If I over-wash it, it becomes dry and frizzy. As an active person who sweats a lot, it has taken some time for me to be comfortable with not showering everyday. As long as I brush it after a work-out (with that bamboo brush I mentioned), it does alright!
What are some helpful tips you can share with other readers? There is no better beauty routine than exercise, adequate hydration, and joy.
Please share something different, interesting, or funny about yourself: I love animals. I have a 7 year old cat named "Bonzo" after John Bonham.
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