Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Are you struggling to find a work-life balance? Do you feel like you’re always stressed out and don’t have enough time for yourself? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of people are struggling with this issue. However, there are some things that you can do to manage stress and improve your work-life balance. 9 to 5 life and peace don’t go hand in hand for some people.

There’s a load on your shoulders, hectic commuting, and no time for yourself. On top of that, the stress is so much that every day you’d either wish to go to the mountains or just quit your job altogether. But neither of them is feasible for individuals who do not have the livelihood, or for those who do not want to give up just yet. 

So the only option left in the scenario is to manage your stress in healthy ways and improve your work-life balance.

But how do you do that? Is it even possible? Why not! This article is going to brief you on all the know-how. 

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance

Benefits Of Managing Stress In A Healthy Way

Keeping your personal life separate from your work life is no easy task. Work and personal duties can easily pile up and cause high stress levels, and even chronic stress. Although it might take some adjusting to achieve a work-life balance and to learn how to manage stress healthily, here are the benefits you will enjoy when you do:

  • Better sleep, focus, mental strength, attention span, and productivity
  • Improved relationships with friends, family, and coworkers
  • Better work/home balance and improved problem-solving skills
  • Less muscle tension and stress build up throughout the body
  • Improved mood and outlook on life
  • Lower blood pressure, better digestion, and improved immune system

10 healthy ways to manage stress and improve work-life balance

1. Exercise

Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life BalanceThis might be your least favorite option if you are a couch potato, yet it is one of the most effective ones.

Exercising releases happy hormones like Dopamine which keeps your mood in balance by drastically reducing stress and anxiety. This past year, my saving grace has been exercised. I wouldn’t have maintained my sanity with everything going on, and all the stresses of the world. If you are part of the Peloton family, make sure to find me on the leaderboard, #bettercauseLnF.

In addition to that, exercising can fill you with energy. Your focus will improve, and you will be able to do your work much faster, not to mention the quality of output will also improve. It is my “me time,” my personal time that everyone knows not to bug me. Sometimes that’s all I get in the hectic day of work and home life.

2. Take regular breaks from work

If you drag yourself to work for hours at a stretch then, stress would be inevitable for you. Thus create a balance, including regular breaks to catch up on life. This includes throughout the regular work day, and by taking advantage of your vacation days & PTO.

Even a 15-20 minute break after 2 hours of continuous work is enough is enough to clear that mental clutter. Catch up with colleagues, take a short walk, or play pool if your workplace is blessed with it. Do whatever that diminishes your stress. But don’t spend these minutes on your phone because apart from your mind, your eyes need rest too.

A good work-life balance helps to ensure you don’t burn out too quickly as well. When you have a poor work life balance, you can tire more easily, get stressed even more, and get angry at the people you care most about. Your mental health and your support system will both suffer. 

The best tip for ensuring I work efficiently as well as taking a break is by using a timer. I set it for a specific time and then when the timer goes off I know it’s time to get up. My favorite way to take a break is to go outside to get some fresh air and some sun on my face.

3. Have your me-time

When was the last time you spent time with yourself? If it has been a while, then what are you waitingHealthy Ways to Manage Stress and Improve Work-Life Balance for? Me-time is the best way when it comes to restoring your lost peace.

You might have your idea of me-time, be it reading a book or simply eating your favorite delicacy while watching Netflix. It could also be as simple as spending a few minutes in the bath by yourself or spending a little extra time meditating or being quiet before bed.

To start with it, you can use your weekends or when you come back home. As I said above, physical activity is my me-time, but I also meal prep foods and like to make chocolate molds and arts and crafts in the morning hours before anyone else is awake. It’s all about having a healthy lifestyle for me because balance is so important to keeping a healthy work-life balance. 

4. Disconnect from technology

Nowadays, technology can be both a blessing and a curse. While it allows us to work remotely and stay connected with our colleagues, it can also make it challenging to create boundaries. It can feel like we need to be available and online 24/7, leading to feelings of burnout and exhaustion. Taking some time to unplug from technology, even if it’s just for a short while, can be an excellent strategy for reducing stress and improving your physical health. By disconnecting, you can better focus on the present moment and recharge for whatever lies ahead.

5. Be more social

We have friends and family who are our happy pills. When you feel that work stress would be the death of you, dial them up or go to meet them. You would feel much better. It also goes the other way – if you have people who are bringing you down, make sure to consider this when you look at how much time you spend with them. If they don’t bring you happiness but only stress, it’s really not helping you. 

If work keeps you bonded, then you can talk to them on the phone during your break times. Keeping in touch with them would help you create a firm balance between work and life, so make sure you don’t skip this. If you are meeting people in person, be sure to be present. Don’t check your emails when they are speaking or when you are out with friends and family. Quality time is more important than just going through the motions. Manage your time efficiently so you can enjoy the time between work and family. 

6. Connect with loved ones

When working remotely or spending long hours a week at work, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and even isolated. Connecting with loved ones can be a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health. Taking time to interact with your family, friends, or significant other can help you feel grounded and supported. This connection can also help you achieve a healthy work-life balance by reminding you of the importance of stepping away from work and prioritizing relationships.

7. Manage your workload

When there’s a heavy workload, one is bound to get stressed. So the key to managing your stress is to manage your workload. You can do so by making every day count. What I mean is, start today instead of just getting started when your deadlines are at an arm’s length. 

In other words, set daily targets. Make a list of the tasks, divide them by the number of days you got, and what you would have your daily targets. In this regard, prioritizing can help too. Start with the most demanding tasks first, and go all the way down to the less demanding ones. Your time and energy are some of the only things you have that aren’t renewable (energy is but it takes time to get there) so be mindful of things you say “YES” to doing, especially if they may not bring you happiness. 

8. Learn to say no

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s crucial to identify what’s causing these feelings and determine what elements of your job are draining you. You may find that you’re taking on too much and spreading yourself too thin. Learning to say no can help you prioritize your workload and manage your stress. It can be challenging to turn down opportunities or delegate tasks, but it’s necessary to achieve a healthy work-life balance. Saying no allows you to focus on the most critical areas of your life and avoid burnout.

9. Take up your hobbies

Did you have some hobbies that you were forced to abandon due to work? If yes, then pleaseHow to Improve Work-Life Balance consider getting started with them again. 

Your hobbies are your #1 stress busters. They bring you peace and solace and make you feel that you have a life other than work. You need that the most right now. If you are thinking you don’t have time, or they are a waste of time, start small. If you start with small increments each day, you can gradually increase as you make more time and notice how your stress falls away. 

10. Set boundaries

Your colleagues and boss will keep on piling files at your desk if you don’t speak your mind. Tell them that you cannot take up more work because you have tons of it already. While you are at it, be more polite. If your employer and colleagues are understanding enough they will understand.

It’s also important to have the boundaries at home. You don’t want to have all of the boundaries at work and then come home and be expected to do all of the work and take care of the kids. Be upfront and honest with your spouse and your kids and let them know you need space and where you can and can’t do things. 

I hope these ways help you manage the stress and achieve a healthy work-life balance. Let us know how these tips work for you in our comment section.

21 Sustainable Lifestyle Habits

21 Sustainable Lifestyle Habits

Do you want to live a more sustainable lifestyle and make a positive impact on the environment while also saving money? It all starts with everyday habits. From using public transportation to conserving water, there are easy actions that anyone can take to start living sustainably right away! In this blog post we’ll be discussing 21 of these simple habits – from small changes like switching off appliances when not in use to bigger steps such as investing in solar energy or energy-saving lamps. Today’s individual actions have the potential to create tremendous impacts towards social justice and environmental sustainability in the future. It is possible for us all to do our part by implementing practical and sustainable lifestyle habits that nurture Mother Nature. So if you’re ready to kickstart your journey towards sustainability, let’s get started!

21 Sustainable Lifestyle Habits

1. Reduce your food waste – plan ahead and buy only what you will useSustainable Lifestyle Habits with kids

If you’re trying to reduce your food waste, one of the best things you can do is to plan ahead and only buy what you know you’ll use. It’s tempting to buy in bulk or stock up on deals, but oftentimes we end up throwing away a ton of food that goes bad before we can eat it. So next time you’re at the grocery store, take a moment to think about what you really need and how much of it you’ll realistically eat within the next few days or week. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you!

2. Invest in reusable containers for food storage and travel

Are you tired of constantly throwing away empty plastic containers from your packed lunches? Or maybe you’re always worried about finding a leaky, disposable container in your travel bag? Investing in reusable containers for food storage and travel might just be the solution you need. Not only is it an environmentally friendly choice, but it saves you money in the long run since you won’t have to constantly replace plastic containers. Plus, many reusable containers these days come in stylish designs and colors, making your meals on-the-go even more fun and enjoyable. So next time you pack a lunch or plan a trip, consider the benefits of investing in some durable and reliable reusable containers.

3. Shop for second-hand items to reduce your carbon footprint

Are you looking to reduce your carbon footprint and make more sustainable choices? Well, shopping for second-hand items is a great way to start! Not onlySustainable Lifestyle Habits are you helping to reduce waste and save resources, but you can also find unique and affordable items that are not typically found in stores. Whether you’re searching for clothing, furniture, or electronics, there are many online marketplaces and local thrift stores where you can find exactly what you’re looking for. So why not give it a try and shop second-hand? You might just be surprised at what you can find while also making a positive impact on the environment.

4. Buy local produce so you know where your food comes from

Have you ever thought about buying local produce? It’s a great way to support your community and get fresh, tasty food. Plus, you’ll know exactly where your food is coming from – no more wondering about the origin of your fruits and veggies. By buying local, you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint, since your food won’t have to travel as far to get to you. And on top of all that, local produce is often more affordable than the imported stuff. So why not give it a try? You might be surprised at just how much you enjoy those local tomatoes or cucumbers. Happy eating!Sustainable packaging

5. Make a conscious effort to purchase items with minimal packaging

Have you ever noticed how much unnecessary packaging is used when you buy everyday items? It’s crazy, right? From plastic wrap to outer boxes, it seems like everything we buy comes with a surplus of packaging that just gets thrown away. That’s why it’s important to make a conscious effort to purchase items with minimal packaging. Not only will this help reduce waste, but it can also save you money in the long run. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment. So why not make a small change in your shopping habits and start choosing products with minimal packaging? Trust me, it’s a small change that can make a big impact.

6. Turn off lights and electronics when they’re not in use

Let’s chat real quick about something that we all know we should be doing but sometimes forget: turning off lights and electronics when they’re not in use. Sure, it may seem like a small thing that doesn’t make much of a difference, but did you know that leaving electronics plugged in when you’re not using them can still use up to 25 percent of the energy they would use when you actually are using them? Crazy, right? Plus, it can save you some serious money on your power bills in the long run. So, next time you step out of the room or finish using a device, be sure to give that switch a quick flick. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you!

7. Conserving Water

We all know that conserving water is important for the environment, but did you know that it can also save you some serious cash? That’s right, by reducinginvest in quality products your water consumption each day – through things like taking shorter showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth – you can cut down on your utility costs significantly. Plus , you’ll be helping the planet too! So why not make a conscious effort to conserve water whenever possible? It’s a small step that can go a long way.

8. Invest in Quality Products

Look no further than investing in quality products that are built to last! Quality items not only provide superior performance, but they also reduce the amount of waste generated from lower-quality disposable items. Not only that, but investing in better products can save you money in the long run since they will last much longer than their cheaper counterparts. So why not make a conscious effort to invest in quality products and make a positive impact on the environment?

9. Choose Reusable Over Disposable

We all know that reducing waste is important for the environment, so why not choose reusable over disposable items wherever possible? From grocery bags to water bottles, choosing a reusable version of something that would normally be disposable can help you save money and reduce your impact on the planet. Plus, most reusable products are made from quality materials that will last for years, meaning you’ll get your money’s worth in no time!

10. Solar Panels

Are you looking for an easy way to reduce your power bills and help the environment? Look no further than solar panels! By investing in a quality set of solar panels, you can generate your own free electricity from the sun. Not only that, but it’s possible to even make some money off selling excess energy back to the grid. So why not make a small change and invest in solar panels? Trust me, it’s an investment that will pay dividends for years to come. We love having ours on our house, the energy bill is so low each month and we feel good about saving the environment! If you are in the market, make sure to visit Volt Solar because we loved working with them on our home!

11. Energy Efficient Appliances

Let’s talk real quick about energy efficient appliances. By investing in energy efficient models, you can reduce your power bills significantly! Plus, you’ll be doing your part to help the environment too. Not only that, but many energy efficient appliances come with a variety of features that standard models may not have – such as temperature sensors and timers – making them even more appealing.

12. Carpool

Are you looking for an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint while also having some fun? Look no further than carpooling! Not only will it help you savecarpool for sustainability money on gas and reduce your environmental impact, but it can also be a great way to socialize with friends and colleagues. So why not make a conscious effort to carpool whenever possible? It’s a small step that can make a huge difference!

13. Composting

Did you know that composting is an excellent way to reduce your environmental impact? Not only will it help to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, but composting can also provide a great source of organic fertilizer for your garden. Plus, you could even sell your compost and make some extra cash!

14. Using Natural Cleaning Products

Are you looking for an easy way to help the planet and save money? Look no further than using natural cleaning products! Not only will they be gentle on your skin, but they’re also much better for the environment. Plus, many of them are cheaper than standard chemical-based cleaners too! Some of our favorite brands include doTERRA, Mrs. Meyer’s, Zevo for flying insects that Polite Pest doesn’t always get with their chemical free bug spray.

15. Spending your Money Wisely

Let’s talk about spending your money wisely. By making conscious choices when it comes to where you put your hard-earned cash, you can help to support businesses that prioritize the environment and sustainability. Plus, look out for companies that offer eco-friendly products too – they’re always a great choice!

16. Practicing Reduce, Reusing, and Recycling

One of the most important tips for helping the environment – practicing reduce, reuse, and recycle. By implementing these three R’s in your daily life, you can make a huge difference to the planet. So why not make a conscious effort to incorporate them into your lifestyle? After all, every small step counts!

17. Reduce Animal Product Consumption

Finally, let’s talk about reducing animal product consumption. Not only will it help to reduce your environmental footprint, but it can also be an excellent way to improve your health and wellbeing too. So why not make a conscious effort to reduce the amount of animal products you consume? Trust me – you won’tcolorful trash bins regret it!

18. Air Dry your Clothes

Another easy way to reduce your environmental impact is by air drying your clothes. This simple yet effective technique can help you save money on energy bills while also reducing the amount of energy used in the laundry process. Plus, it’s much better for the environment too! So why not give it a try?

19. Install Low-Flow Showerheads

Are you looking for an easy way to help the environment? Look no further than installing low-flow showerheads! Not only will they help to reduce your water consumption, but they can also significantly reduce your water bills. Plus, many of them come with a variety of features such as temperature sensors and timers – making them even more appealing!

20. Choose Eco-Friendly Building Materials

Why not make a conscious effort to choose eco-friendly building materials when renovating or constructing? Not only will it help you save money on energy bills, but it can also reduce your environmental impact too. Plus, many of these materials come with a variety of features – such as temperature sensors, energy-saving coatings, and much more – making them even more appealing!

21. Opt for Slow Fashion

Finally, let’s talk about slow fashion. Not only will it help you save money in the long run, but it can also be an excellent way to reduce your environmentaleco-friendly coffee cup impact too. By opting for eco-friendly materials and sustainable production processes, you’ll be making a huge difference to the planet. Places to avoid with fast fashion include: Asos, Chicwish, Zara, H&M, GAP, Forever 21, Topshop, Esprit, Fashion Nova, and even more mainstream brands like Adidas, Nike, and Walmart.

Living sustainably may seem daunting at first, but the truth is it only takes a few small steps to make a big difference. If you commit to reducing your food waste, investing in reusable containers, shopping second-hand items, buying local produce, and seeking out minimal packaging items when possible – you will be well on your way to living a more sustainable lifestyle. Additionally, being mindful about turning off lights and electronics when they’re not being used will only support your journey. Remember: no one is perfect. You can always challenge yourself to do better and do more as you become aware of new ways to help the environment. Small changes add up over time, so anytime you make an effort – however seemingly small – to reduce your environmental impact is a step in the right direction!

How to Implement a Daily Self Care Routine

How to Implement a Daily Self Care Routine

Being the best version of yourself means taking care of your body, mind, and soul. Practicing a daily self-care routine gives you the fuel you need to feel your best every day. Use these tips and ideas to form a daily routine you can effortlessly stick to.

Have you found yourself feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled lately? If so, it might be because you aren’t practicing (enough) self-care.

Most of us have heard about how important it is to practice self-care, but it’s really more than just a buzzword. 

Healthy living involves more than getting the optimal number of fruit and veggie servings or 30 minutes of cardio each day. Healthy living isn’t just about your physical and emotional health. It’s about your social, emotional, and mental health too.

How to Implement a Daily Self Care RoutineThat’s where self-care comes into play. Self-care is vital to our overall health and well-being. Whether you realize it or not, a daily routine can help with incorporating self-care into your day. By devoting just a little time each day to take care of ourselves, we are able to feel our best on many levels.

But we struggle to actually implement it in our daily lives. We all juggle many different things at any given time, which often means that we tend to put ourselves at the bottom of the priority list. 

How to Implement a Daily Self-Care Routine You’ll Stick to

We don’t have time for “indulging” in self-care, right? Wrong.

How to Implement a Daily Self Care RoutineGoing to the gym or the salon or having girls’ nights can definitely be forms of self-care but today I’m talking about little, regular things you can do on a daily basis to help you recharge and feel good.

While self-care does include taking care of yourself physically, the most effective forms of self-care involve implementing a collection of everyday habits that help you nurture your well-being and overall health, and you’ll start to feel good too.

First and foremost, it’s important to cover what is self-care…and what isn’t.

Most people think that self-care is about taking care of yourself physically such as working out a lot. 

Or another belief is that some people think that only Hollywood stars in Los Angeles have the time to pamper themselves with self-care activities (probably because that’s what lots of their social media posts show).

However, both of those ideas couldn’t be more wrong. Just because an activity is good for you doesn’t automatically make it self-care And everyone needs to pamper themselves regularly.

The qualifying distinction is that you need to be able to gain some sense of gratification from spending time doing your chosen self-care activities. If you find fulfillment from meditating or running, then they may be able to be considered self-care 

However, if you do them because they’re “good for you” (even if they help you feel great) but you really hate every second you spend doing them, they can’t be considered self-care.

Our lives are so busy with so many moving pieces that we need activities in our days that allow us to slow down and really relax. Take some time to choose activities that help you feel centered and relaxed and try to incorporate them into your day. 

Maybe you do some of them as part of your morning routine, and maybe some of them are part of your evening. I highly recommend sprinkling them throughout your entire day!

Daily Self-Care Routine Examples

Here are some examples of types of self-care activities you might want to adopt as part of a daily self-care routine that can improve your daily life. Try and set realistic goals… you could even utilize your phone’s alarm clock to stay on track.

The key to doing them daily (or regularly) is to make them a natural part of your day so that they fit in seamlessly, almost without you needing to think about it. 

Reading a Book

First up on the list of self-care ideas is to read a book – or listen to an audiobook. Reading can not only be relaxing but very fun and offer some respite from the stresses of everyday life. 

No, I’m not talking about reading textbooks or work briefs. I’m talking about reading a mystery, an interesting biography, or even a romance novel.

Do it while you’re taking a bath, enjoying your morning coffee, or before you go to bed so it’s a natural part of your day. For example, I read for about 20 minutes every night before turning off the light, and it’s one of my favorite parts of the day.

Take a Leisurely Walk

Taking a walk can be a great way to wake up in the morning or get centered after a day of work. Just being outside breathing the fresh air and moving your legs can be not only enjoyable but rejuvenating as well.

Yoga

yoga classIf you enjoy the mind-body practice of being in the moment and focusing on your breathing while also stretching, yoga might be a great addition to your daily self-care routine. Just 30 minutes of yoga and some deep breaths can make a huge difference in how you feel.

Take a Nap

There’s nothing like a quick power nap to help reenergize you and freshen you up for the rest of the day. A solid 10-15 minutes is all you really need.

Journalingessential oils

Journaling can be an amazing outlet. If putting your thoughts and feelings on paper is enjoyable and cathartic, you can easily incorporate a few minutes of journaling into your daily self-care routine.

Diffuse Essential OilsDiffuse Essential Oils

Essential oils can bring a sense of serenity and calm to an area. By the same token, they also have the ability to energize you. If you enjoy scents, try diffusing essential oils any time of the day that you want. Try choosing a citrus scent in the morning to energize you and some lavender in the evening to help you unwind.

Cook Your Own Breakfast

Many people find cooking to be therapeutic and enjoyable. If that’s you, pick one meal (breakfast, perhaps?) that you can cook daily. It doesn’t need to be extravagant – the act of cooking is the important part.

Listening to Podcastsself care ideas

Podcasts are wildly popular for a good reason: they are entertaining and interesting nuggets of media that don’t take up too much of your time. Since they’re relatively short, you can listen to them at practically any time of the day: while you put on your makeup, driving to or from work, while you take a bath, etc. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re just starting to implement a daily self-care routine for the first time or you’re wanting to begin one that you’ll actually stick with, it’s important to remember to make it a seamless part of your day so that you don’t need to think about it or make time for it (which can mean that you don’t do it at all).

I hope these tips help inspire you as you choose daily self-care activities that will bring long-term relaxation, joy, and peace into your life!

Unlocking Timeless Beauty with Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream: A Clean Skincare Marvel

Unlocking Timeless Beauty with Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream: A Clean Skincare Marvel

 

In a world where a myriad of skincare products promise to turn back the clock, the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream stands out as a true champion in the realm of clean skincare. With the pursuit of youthful, radiant skin at the forefront of our minds, let’s dive into why this cream deserves its moment in the spotlight.

Clean Skincare at Its Finest

Before we delve into the magic of wrinkle reduction and anti-aging, it’s essential to acknowledge the importance of clean skincare. Elemis understands this need and has formulated their Pro-Collagen Marine Cream with a commitment to clean beauty. Free from parabens, mineral oils, and artificial colors, it’s a breath of fresh air for those who prioritize purity in their skincare routine.

Unlocking Timeless Beauty with Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream: A Clean Skincare Marvel

The Power of Marine Ingredients

The key to Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream’s effectiveness lies in its ingenious blend of marine ingredients. At its heart, Padina Pavonica, a Mediterranean algae, works tirelessly to support the skin’s natural collagen production. Collagen, often referred to as the “youth protein,” is responsible for maintaining skin’s elasticity and firmness, and Padina Pavonica’s presence in this cream is a game-changer.

Wrinkle Reduction: A Marvel in Action

Wrinkles, those inevitable markers of time, are often the primary concern when seeking anti-aging solutions. The Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream takes on this challenge with gusto. By promoting collagen synthesis and elastin production, it helps to plump and smooth the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Regular use of this cream leads to a noticeable improvement in skin texture, making it look more youthful and refreshed.

Anti-Aging Dynamo

Anti-aging is not just about addressing wrinkles; it’s about maintaining overall skin health and vitality. Here, too, Elemis excels. The Ginkgo Biloba extract in the formula supports microcirculation, ensuring a vibrant and healthy complexion. Combined with antioxidant-rich ingredients, this cream shields your skin from environmental stressors, such as UV rays and pollution, which can accelerate the aging process.

User Experience

I’ve been using the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream for several weeks now, and the results speak for themselves. My skin feels noticeably firmer and looks more radiant. Those pesky fine lines that were beginning to make an appearance have visibly diminished, and my complexion is smoother and more youthful. I like to include it with The Skinny Confidential Ice Roller as it is a one two punch for depuffing and anti wrinkling! You can see them both in action here.

 

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is a testament to clean skincare that actually works. It goes beyond its competitors by offering a powerhouse of marine ingredients that deliver on the promise of wrinkle reduction and anti-aging benefits. It’s a clean skincare marvel that I’ll continue to incorporate into my daily routine. If you’re on a quest for timeless beauty, this cream is a must-try. Say hello to a more youthful, radiant you!

How To Replenish Your Skin

How To Replenish Your Skin

As temperatures start to warm up or cool down, it’s important to remember the biggest organ of the body — our skin. And one way to do that is to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and try your best to stay out of the direct sun. It’s an all day long process of replenishing your skin, not just at the end of the day. Replenish your body’s protective layer throughout the day, don’t take your skin health for granted because it often leads to dehydrated, dull, and dry skin. UV rays trigger free radical damages like wrinkles and fine lines so, make sure to take great care of your skin while having fun under the sun. And I’ll share some tips on how to replenish your skin to keep it radiant, healthy, and glowing. 

How to Replenish Your Skin

Your skin is subjected to all sorts of external factors that could damage it. Every season has its threat to your skin, summer included. While the sun can bring in so many fun activities, it can also cause damage brought by toxins, dust, and grime clogging the pores. To keep your skin safe from possible freak-outs, here are tips to help you be your skin’s superhero:

Hydrate

Drink water, warm water if possible. It’s the most basic and most vital tip to replenish not just your skin but your entire body. It helps in flushing the toxins and paves the way for nutrients that help keep your skin glowing. Dehydrated skin means that it lacks water. It’s dry, sometimes itchy, and lackluster. Water invigorates cells which gives a clearer and look. Set the alarm on your phone, create reminders for you to drink water. You can also sustain skin hydration by preparing a container to take with you throughout the day, helping ensure you consume at least 8 glasses of water each day. When you can, use a reusable water bottle, like my favorite Hydroflask, which I take everywhere with me and I only need to refill one time a day since it’s 40 ounces. Skin care starts with drinking water! 

If you are local to Phoenix, or want to support people who don’t have regular access to cool drinking water in Phoenix, you should check out this amazing non profit, Ara Water Foundation. Ara donates a reusable stainless steel water bottle filled with cold water to anyone in the local Phoenix area with the purchase of any of their water bottles. It’s not just about hydrating the skin in Arizona, without access to water, you die really quick, and people experiencing homelessness often are the most vulnerable and their skin is the first place which sees improvement once they are able to keep hydrated with these water bottles.

Eat food that helps replenish your skin

As you aim for radiant skin, make sure to fuel your skin cells from the inside. Eat food that nourishes them, like fruits and vegetables. Consult your dietician and ask which food is best for every layer of skin. Here’s my roundup of the most hydrating foods with high water content to help replace all that water loss!

One of those commonly suggested is Avocado, considered as a superfood with vitamin E. It has an anti-inflammatory function that keeps your skin glowing and hydrated. 

For supple skin, orange juice is your best bet. Its B1 and folate improve oxygen distribution in your blood, resulting in a balanced skin tone. 

Meanwhile, green tea that is chock full of vitamin E and B2 supports maintaining your skin’s collagen levels. It serves as a hydrator for dry skin.

Add Kale to your diet because it’s packed with vitamins A and C that stimulate the healthy growth of your cells by producing collagen. 

Olive oil is a natural anti-aging agent. It is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamin E that improves the skin whether consumed or topically applied.

These are just three examples of food that are natural replenishers of your skin and body. There are more options out there; research and look for the best ones that suit your diet and lifestyle.

Use a gentle cleanser

Whether your have healthy skin or acne prone skin or anything in between, its actually always a good idea to use a gentle cleanser when washing your face. Using harsh ingredients on your face is one of the best ways to ensure dull, scarred, and downright painful dry skin. This is why dry skin especially calls for a gentle cleanser. If you can, choose one with hyaluronic acid to further help hydrate and replenish your skin’s moisture barrier.

Exfoliate

It bears stressing that exfoliating is necessary, but the most vital part is how you properly do it. Dry and dead skin cells can make our skin look and feel dull. It often leads to pimple breakouts and sometimes eczema. It’s all about speeding up the life cycle of your cells. The faster they replenish, the more glowy your skin will look. 

Exfoliating, it can allow the serums and moisturizers to penetrate your skin better. It makes your complexion brighter and healthy-looking at the same time prevents pores from clogging. I can tell when I need to exfoliate because my skin starts to feel heavy on my face and my makeup products don’t work as well on my face. This one is my favorite by far. 

However, it’s essential to choose wisely when it comes to exfoliating skincare products. If you prefer something that doesn’t suit your skin, especially the top layer, it might bring more damage instead of progress. So, know your skin type and get to know your products better. Also, do not over-exfoliate because it leads to redness and flaking.

Keep stress in check

There’s a study that links the psychological stress in college students and skin symptoms. It claims that those experiencing high stress levels show specific skin issues like itchy skin, hair loss, flaky and oily scalp, too much sweating, dry, scaly skin, and hand rashes. These researchers suspect that stress causes an increase in sebum production. It blocks the pores and creates more skin problems. 

Look for a stress-relieving activity, maybe yoga, working out, Zumba, reading a book, or simply watching a good film. All this for you to relax your mind and learn to classify your thoughts.

Get your beauty sleep

Never underestimate the value of sleep. Just like drinking water, napping and sleeping are free and can improve your skin tone. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation is detrimental to your health and impacts the skin. One possible result is premature skin aging. Sun exposure is a stressor, and without sufficient sleep, it will be a challenge for your skin to repair any damages. So sleep adequately to keep that skin glow permanently.

Moisturize your body

The holy grail of skincare is skin moisturizers. They keep your skin hydrated, smooth, clear, and your future self will thank you later.

Your skin’s moisture barrier can maintain the proper balance if you use the right moisturizer that matches it. Blemishes are evened out, and they can help your skin repair itself. 

Again, choose a moisturizer that works best for your skin and that gives you the best result—saying that I have some tried and tested brands that work for me that I’ll share with you below. If you’re not sure where to start, make an appointment with your board certified dermatologist. 

My Favorite Skin Moisturizers

Eucerin Calming Cream is one of my favorite moisturizers because it’s thick and holds in the moisture and doesn’t cause a stickiness.

Coconut Oil is my next favorite because it’s natural, usually doesn’t have any additives, and is easily accessible for everyone.

And the last one is a two for one – bronzer and moisturizer. Lux Unfiltered No 32 adds moisture while giving you a glow for a few days. Active ingredients include shea butter, cocoa butter, natural DHA, and more! Love it!

Organic Celery Juice Benefits

Organic Celery Juice Benefits

Ever since the day I found the wonders of organic Celery Juice and the benefits it can do for your body, I’ve been hooked.

You won’t believe the effects of celery and celery juice on your body. First of all, it’s packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties! These little green stalks are like a shield, fighting off all those nasty free radicals and reducing inflammation in your body..

And if that’s not impressive enough, celery juice has also been shown to have a positive impact on blood sugar levels. It’s like a balancing act for your sweet stuff! By sipping on this green goodness, you can keep those sugar levels in check and avoid those crazy spikes and crashes.

Now, it’s not the best-tasting thing on the market, and reminds me of wine and beer. it IS an acquired taste. But all the amazing things it can do for your body is enough for me to keep going.

Organic Celery Juice Benefits

It has been months and months since I started drinking the celery juice. After reading the Medical Medium by Anthony William and all the awesomeness in that book, I was hooked. If you haven’t read that book yet, HIGHLY recommend picking it up RIGHT now! His additional books, his podcasts, and his Instagram are also great resources for learning the basics of why you need Celery Juice in your life. Anthony has also started being featured by several celebrities and on podcasts outside of his personal community. Feel free to Google Anthony William or even “Medical Medium” you will find a plethora of information to dive into regarding his teachings and the health benefits of celery juice.

For me personally, I have seen a reduction in inflammation; a total reduction in body fat throughout my entire body. I’ve had an increase in energy; and can FEEL my body getting lighter and less filled with crap.

Celery Juice For Acid Reflux

My husband suffers from really bad acid reflux and heartburn. So much so that he’s had surgery to stretch his throat from the scarring in his throat. And, it’s been getting so bad lately that food has been getting stuck in his throat. He was thinking he would have to go back for surgery soon. I proposed to him to instead try to drink celery juice on an empty stomach every morning for 1 week to see if it would help. I kind of secretly put him on a celery juice detox without him knowing!

And a week later, it had helped enough that nothing had gotten stuck in his throat. And he was feeling less of the acid reflux happening. So we are still continuing and hoping it keeps helping heal his body from the inside out.

Celery Juice Detox

I’m a big juicer and actively juice daily in my home and like to seek out places in my community who also make great juice blends. Because of this, I was approached by Nekter Juice to help them get the word out about their new 6 day Celery Juice detox.

Now, this was a little different than my normal every morning juicing with my juicer. I, instead, went to a location and picked up my 6 day supply of the cleanse. And then would drink 16 ounces each day.

The celery juice detox formula consists of Celery Juice, Lemon Juice, and Mint.

It might not sound great, but it wasn’t too bad. I am incredibly green so I didn’t mind it. But if you aren’t used to eating/drinking such green things, I would maybe ease into this detox. Your body may heavily detox and cause you to have a drop in energy for a day or so. And you may want to start this on a weekend or a day you will be able to be at home.

When I juice at home, I prefer to only have straight celery juice, and always use organic celery stalks. Since juicing, I don’t really eat celery on its own outside of the juice. To me, it’s a bit much – I juice 2 entire bunches of celery a day, depending on the size. And the thought of eating another celery stick outside of that I really can’t stomach.

If you are thinking of doing green juice for weight loss, a mixed version is best. Maybe doing cucumber and apple to start.

I don’t recommend if you can help it, to mix anything with your celery juice. Especially when you are drinking it first thing in the morning, after your 16 oz of water with lemon or lime like I do. I always wait 15-30 minutes after finishing my water to drink my celery juice. When I’m completely done with the celery, I start a timer for 30 minutes so I know for sure I’m not ruining the work the celery juice is doing inside my body. If I run out. Or if you are looking for reduced side effects to start out, start with a smaller amount and work up.

You will find all kinds of celery juice recipes on the internet and Pinterest. But be certain to put more stalks of celery in the recipe and *try* to put less and less of other ingredients as you get used to the taste until it’s eventually only celery, at least for your morning juice.

I started drinking 16 ounces of celery juice to feel better, to help regulate my husband’s heart rate and blood pressure, and to help with my weight loss journey. I’ve been continuing it because I feel better. I have less reactions, and know exactly what my body needs.

Benefits of Celery Juice

Research suggests that drinking celery juice on a regular basis has a plethora of benefits. Benefits that range from gut health to hair health and everything in between. Here are just a few:

1. Celery juice reduces inflammation.

Inflammation is often the root causes of many aches, pains, and ailments throughout the body. It can be caused by a range of things, including food, stress, and allergy. Just one bunch of celery contains 20+ anti-inflammatory properties and organic compounds that contribute to reduced inflammation.

2.. Celery juice may help reduce high blood pressure.

Phthalide is a compound found in some fruits and vegetables, including celery, that is known to relax the blood vessels throughout the body. Thus, reducing high blood pressure and increasing proper blood flow throughout the body.

3. Celery juice is good for your heart.

Other than reducing high blood pressure (thus helping to prevent hypertension), celery juice is also good for your heart in that it cleanses the body by removing plaque build-up. In turn, this may reduce the risk of heart disease like stroke and heart attack.

4. Celery juice promotes proper digestion.

Poor digestion can contribute to a multitude of health problems. Mood swings, headaches, and acid reflux just to name a few. Celery juice contains compounds called polysaccharides. These compounds are known to improve digestion by helping to prevent stomach ulcers and supporting the stomach lining. Celery is also low on the glycemic index, meaning it takes longer to digest. This keeps you feeling fuller longer.

5. Celery juice promotes good, clear skin.

Celery juice is packed with antioxidants that can help clear your skin and prevent free radical damage from the sun and your environment. Even more, celery is loaded with water content, which means drinking celery juice can help keep your skin plump and hydrated. In fact, celery juice is great for keeping hydrated in general and like coconut water, it can be used to supplement your intake of regular water.

6. Celery juice promotes healthy hair.

The antioxidants and Vitamin K found in celery can not only fight free radicals, but they can promote hair growth as well. By fighting free radicals on the scalp, the antioxidants in celery juice can help prevent hair loss in the first place. Then, Vitamin K can help replenish your hair cells and hair follicles, and promote hair growth.

7. Celery juice is a great source of vitamins and minerals to support a healthy mind and body.

While celery has a wide range of vitamins and minerals, it is a great source of five main ones: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Potassium and Folate. All of which preform essential and necessary functions in the body. Folate, in particular, is very important for women who are pregnant, hoping to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

With all these benefits in mind, it’s no wonder so many people are jumping on the celery juice cleanse. Try the cleanse, make your own juice at home, or simply just try to incorporate celery into your diet more often. No matter which way you add this “superfood” to your diet, you will only benefit in the long run. So, friends, hit the grocery store and get yourself some celery! 

Whether you are looking for a change or want to feel better, a celery juice cleanse is a great way to come off the holidays and start the new year off with a cleanse of the body, mind, and health.

Here are a few of the photos that I took along my journey on my Instagram stories and helped to keep me accountable for doing it. If you are considering doing a cleanse or even healthy eating, I’d highly recommend you doing something similar to keep you accountable, and going. It might seem redundant or annoying, but I promise it will help you to keep accountable and honest.

Organic Celery Juice Benefits
Organic Celery Juice Benefits | Nekter Juice
Organic Celery Juice Benefits | Nekter Juice
Nekter Juice review
Organic Celery Juice Benefits
Nekter juicing review

So tell me, are you ready to hop on the Celery Juice train yet?

 

Xoxo,

AJ