By Isabelle, Head Nutritionist
Take the time to revamp your skin and bath care routine and give it some TLC. Self-care is so much more than just bubble baths. Self-care can often be described in many ways. In a nut-shell, it is putting yourself forward and taking the time to check-in and ask yourself how you are feeling both mentally and physically. We live in an age where we are constantly switched on, so this can be difficult to do especially at the moment, but so important! So be kind to yourself, and remember it is normal to feel anxious as social distancing becomes paramount. It is also OK to embrace some time to slow down and do a few things for your wellbeing.
Ease Muscle Tension
One of the ways you can release muscle tension from the comfort of your living room is self-myofascial release, a form of self-massage by way of foam rolling. It is well known that when muscles stay contracted, fascia lose its elasticity, which can leave you feeling tight, stiff and actually tired. By doing self-myofascial release, it increases blood flow to the muscles and gives a gentle stretch to the fascia, which can help make you feel more relaxed and energised.
Ease Anxiety with Meditation and Breathing Techniques
Panicking, worrying and fearing the worst provides absolutely no protection against a pandemic. It actually makes you more vulnerable to it, as the immune system does not function as well when the mind tells it to worry. Meditation, according to Light Watkins (a meditation coach and author) talks about meditation as being a mood stabiliser, and by aiming to meditate twice a day upon rising and before bed is a good rule of thumb. An app may be a good place to start, such as Calm or Headspace. Breathing techniques can also help you to focus on the moment, and help clear the mind. Watkins suggests 10 deep breaths to be taken over a period of 2 to 3 minutes.
Other Aids to Help you Achieve Self-Care
Neocell Collagen +C pomegranate liquid
Collagen has become a well sought after ingredient in the wellness and beauty industry. It is one of the most abundant proteins in the body, and is the main structural protein that forms the connective tissue throughout the body, from skin to bones, muscles tendons and ligaments. Collagen provides elasticity and structure to our skin. It is greatly reduced with ageing, but also with the ultraviolet rays, smoking or other lifestyle factors including a diet high in refined sugars. Stress has an immense impact on our collagen as well. One option is looking at your dietary intake and perhaps increasing your bone broth. But making bone broth might not be your priority right now, so why not try this formula.
Neocell Collagen +C pomegranate liquid is a scientific formula that provides hydrolysed peptides of collagen obtained from grass-fed bovine, a burst of Vitamin C and antioxidants derived from pomegranates, elderberries, cranberries and green tea leaf extract. Antioxidants and Vitamin C can help to bring in the glowing skin which we all seek, while reducing any underlying skin inflammation. The hydrolysed collagen peptides help the body absorb the collagen, and results can be achieved after a steady intake. Hyaluronic acid can be taken in addition to this formula, to help support the skin’s moisture and hydration.
The whole Neocell range has something for everyone, be it with a focus on skincare and beauty or joint care for the elderly or most active.
Avalon Organics Bath and Shower Gel in Lavender
Lavender has traditionally been used as a tonic for stress and anxiety relief and is believed to possess anxiolytic effects by potentiating GABA (brain chemical associated with anxiety). Lavender is well revered to help those who need tranquillity and comfort to help ease and quieten a busy mind. This is particularly true when we can’t stop the brain from whirring when it’s time to unwind in the evening and catch up on some quality sleep.
Soothe and balance your routine at home with lavender essential oils or simply use the calming nature of lavender in Avalon Organics body care and hand washes.
Antipodes Baptise H20 Ultra-Hydrating Water Gel
An intensely moisturising formula that deeply quenches thirsty skin with incredible natural ingredients to help you feel refreshed. A stressed skin can sometimes cause dullness and appear to lack moisture. The plant-originated Hyaluronic acid here works with New Zealand Manuka honey and Harakeke gel to deeply hydrate the skin, while the Mamaku black fern helps to regenerate and foster healthy skin cells. The South Pacific Hibiscus flower gently exfoliates deadened skin cells to freshen your complexion.
“Inspiration comes from within yourself. One has to be POSITIVE and this is when good things happen”.
A quote by Deep Roy, which we wanted to share with you. See the light down the tunnel, and embrace this time for your overall wellbeing. Make sure to take time to manage your mental wellbeing.