As lockdown restrictions are lifted, life is becoming chaotic again and if like me, you’ve gone wild and planned something for every weekend, it can be hard to schedule in me-time and you’re not alone 43% of our followers found they had less time to relax.
Throughout the lockdown, I started to spend a lot more time pampering myself, which not only benefited my skin but it also relaxed my mind, reduced stress and helped reset my mood; last week I asked myself why I had stopped taking these peaceful moments for myself? So I started to formulate a list of five ways I could incorporate self care into my week, all with varying timelines, so no matter how busy I was I had no excuses to not take a pause. Do you feel the same? I’ve done the hard work for you. No more excuses, read on to get the break you didn’t realise you needed…
What Is Self-Care?
Although self-care is trending it’s not a new concept nor is it complicated; self-care is just what it sounds like caring for yourself. When I think of self-care, I tend to think of beauty-related moments that relax my mind, body and soul, whilst pampering my skin. But self-care can be anything that you find improves your physical and mental health; so, if this list isn’t for you it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a moment for yourself.
Why Is It Important To Take Breaks?
As British citizens, we’re often told to keep our chin up and get on with it but eventually, as life piles on we can feel burned out, tired and deflated. Self-care is an important part of a healthy and positive lifestyle; taking a break for yourself has been clinically proven to reduce stress, anxiety and lift your mood, which in turn positively affects relationships with loved ones. If that wasn’t all, it can improve your self-esteem and boost your mental health, making it easier to deal with setbacks when achieving your goals.
Putting yourself first and taking a pause can be difficult when you have multiple responsibilities and restrictions. But, self-care doesn’t have to be expensive nor take half a day. Whether you have 30 minutes after putting the kids to bed, or 5 minutes on your lunch break working from home, there is something for every timeline and budget in this lineup.
1. 5 Minutes of TLC
When you can’t find time in your week for much-needed recess, the Kiehl’s Sunflower Colour Preserving Deep Recovery Mask is a quick and easy addition to your shower routine that deeply nourishes your locks, whilst filling your senses with the relaxing aroma of soft, fruity apricots.
Enriched with vitamins B3, B5 and B6 the moisturising hair mask revives damaged locks and retains colour for soft, sleek locks that are instantly volumised. The thick hydrating texture contains a natural blend of sunflower and apricot oil that form an addictive veil across the hair, so you can enjoy the tranquil scent and soft to touch hair all day long.
How to use it? After washing, apply the Sunflower Hair Pack to your locks working your way up from the ends. For the best results, take a five-minute pause whilst the mask does its work and rinse with warm water.
2. 10 Minute Moisture Boost
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil moment of silence, or a nourishing addition to use alongside watching your favourite TV show. Florena’s 24H Hydrating Face Mask will make you take the time to relax; the rich, moisturising texture contains natural ingredients, seen throughout Chinese medicine to both protect your complexion and reduce inflammation.
For those in a rush, the no-rinse formula will save you even more time! But the best bit? The gentle formula is made up of 99.46% natural ingredients that provide 24 hours of hydration, so you can enjoy smooth and supple skin from day to night (or night to day) – a self-care treat that just keeps giving.
How to use it? Apply a thick layer to the face, leaving it on for 10 minutes before removing it with a wet cloth.
3. 30 Minutes of Relaxation
My advice? A bath. Relax, unwind and switch off with the L’Occitane Lavande Foaming Bath; the best-selling lavender bath oil, formulated with natural essential oils that destress the mind and relax the soul. If you’re craving a spa experience without the hefty price tag, the L’Occitane foaming bath is a perfect substitute; infused with Haute-Provence lavender the bubbles cocoon the body for a silky smooth finish. Light some candles, grab your favourite drink and watch as your bathroom is transformed into a calming sanctuary of clean and aromatic scents.
How to use it? Pour two tablespoons of the Lavande Foaming Bath under warm running water and sit back, relax and watch the luscious bubbles appear.
4. 1 Hour of Bliss
Me time is the best time. Grab your favourite book or magazine and enjoy an hour of luxurious, peaceful ambience with the Elizabeth Arden White Tea Scented Candle. Light your candle and create a warm, safe space filled with relaxing scents including: sea breeze accord, soothing white tea and Italian mandarin. As you breathe in, the pure scent recreates the calming sensation of taking your first sip of tea, ideal for stressful days and manic moments. The White Tea Candle can transform any space into a familiar but uplifting bubble, which is perfect for anyone dealing with the anxiety and excitement of moving to a new town.
How to use it? Light the candle, enjoy a good book and allow the wax to burn to the edges for optimum efficiency.
5. An Evening of Tranquility
Starting a nighttime ritual before bed has been clinically proven to increase sleep quality and reduce evening anxiety. A few months ago I took this advice on board and purchased a Tisserand Vapouriser; since dabbling in essential oils my sleep pattern has improved drastically, achieving a fuller night’s sleep most evenings. Now, my ‘before bed’ beauty ritual always includes the Sleep Better Diffuser Oil, a hand-blended oil of 100% natural pure essential oils that relaxes tired minds and bodies.
If, like me, you find it difficult to relax you’ll love the therapeutic blend of jasmine, lavender and sandalwood that fills your senses with soothing aromas. Plus, it’s so easy! A few drops of essential oil can transform your bedroom into a serene space for unwinding.
How to use it? Create a sleeping sanctuary before you settle in for the night by adding 6 to 8 drops to a burner, diffuser or vaporiser. If you’re sensitive to smells, I’d recommend starting with 4 drops and working your way up. Remember to blow out any candles or turn off your diffuser before going to bed.
Now it’s over to you, be sure to take time to pause the mayhem and put yourself first at least once a week and remember to take a moment to breathe.
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