Temperatures are falling and the days are getting shorter. Winter is on its way. While many of us are ready to embrace the cozy season and start the countdown to the holidays, the arrival of colder climes is not always welcome. If you find it harder to prioritize your health and well-being in winter, or you struggle to stay on top of self-care or beauty regimens, this winter wellness guide has everything you need to look and feel amazing.
Simple Skin Care Hacks
There is a vast amount of information out there on skin care and how to achieve flawless, radiant, youthful skin. It’s brilliant to have access to a bottomless font of information and endless videos, tutorials and guides, but it can be difficult to determine what actually works.
Stripping back skin care is a fantastic way to simplify the process of looking after your skin and embrace easy steps you can maintain in the long term. Winter weather can spell trouble for your skin. Many of us experience dry, flaky skin when temperatures plunge. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, such as psoriasis or eczema, you may also be more prone to flare-ups during winter. Adopting a basic daily routine can help nourish and protect your skin.
Your daily skin care regimen should include cleansing, applying targeted lotions or serums, and moisturizing. Choose skincare products that cater to your skin type. Most people fall into the main categories, which include dry, oily and combination skin. If you have sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic products and avoid heavily scented or perfumed creams, sprays or lotions. Cleanse twice a day, taking care to cover every part of your face to remove makeup, dirt and impurities.
Once your face is clean, you can add serums to tackle skin concerns. You might want to add a hydrating serum if you have dry skin or a radiance booster if you miss that healthy summer glow, for example. The next step is moisturizing your skin. Apply cream or oil to nourish your skin and leave it feeling soft and smooth. In winter, when the elements can take their toll, it’s best to choose a heavier moisturizer. The final step is to apply SPF. Even when it’s cold, dark and gray outside, it’s important to protect against UV rays.
If you have questions about which products to buy, or you’re unsure about your skin type, it’s beneficial to seek expert advice, read verified product reviews and use testers and mini versions of popular products to find your skincare heroes. Finding the best skincare products will help you enhance the look of your complexion, boost your confidence and target specific concerns or skin problems. When you read reviews, always remember that everyone is different. What works for some people might not be effective for others. Try to focus on reviews from users who have the same skin type or concerns as you.
Hydration is the most important factor when it comes to winter wellness skin care. Try to shield your skin from the cold and wind and add moisture using indulgent creams, lotions or oils. Hyaluronic acid, which is found naturally in the body, is an excellent hydrating serum you can add to your skincare routine between cleansing and moisturizing. It’s also beneficial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
Your diet can also impact your skin, hair and nails, especially during winter. It’s a great idea to add superfoods that are rich in nutrients, including oily fish, seeds, nuts, leafy green vegetables, berries and avocados.
Boosting Your Mental Health During Winter
Studies show that many of us feel less happy during winter. Short, dark days and a lack of bright, sunny weather can affect our mental health. Around 10% to 20% of American adults experience a mild form of SAD (seasonal affective disorder). If you find it harder to get motivated in the winter, your energy levels drop or you’re less enthusiastic, it’s important to recognize triggers and be proactive in boosting your mental well-being.
Prioritizing your health is essential all year round, but if you’re prone to bouts of stress, depression or feeling low or lethargic during winter, protecting your mind and body is crucial. Simple steps, such as making more time for hobbies and interests, spending time with people who make you feel good and getting outside, can help.
Most of us spend a lot more time indoors during winter due to the change in conditions. It may not seem appealing to get off the couch or leave the warmth of your home when it’s chilly outside, but being outdoors can do wonders for your mental health. Even if you just take a stroll around the block or go for a 30-minute bike ride in the park, you’ll feel better. Wrap up warm, put your layers on and enjoy the feeling of fresh air hitting your lungs. Being in nature is particularly beneficial for mental health and well-being.
Regular exercise is another powerful natural tonic for mental health. A 2020 study revealed that almost 60% of US adults are less active during winter. It can be tough to muster up the energy and enthusiasm to go for a run, hit the gym or play sports when it goes dark early or it’s raining outside. If you struggle to find the motivation to be active during the colder months, try to get into the habit of exercising regularly, make it fun and look for ways to get around obstacles, such as short days and colder temperatures.
You could work out at home or swap jogging or playing outdoor team sports for indoor activities, such as swimming, badminton, yoga, circuit training or HIIT and spin classes, for example. Vary your regimen to keep it interesting and get others involved. Exercise is often much more enjoyable when there’s a social element. Why not catch up with friends at a Pilates class or challenge your partner to a game of basketball or squash?
Improving Sleep Quality
CDC data suggests that over a third of Americans don’t get enough sleep. Do you feel tired during the day or wake during the night regularly? Do you find it hard to drift off even when you feel exhausted? If so, it’s worth trying some self-help sleep hacks. Reviewing your evening routine is a good place to start. If you work long hours or spend your evenings checking emails, rushing around after other people or trying to get on top of household chores, try to make time for relaxation.
We all need time to unwind and recharge our batteries. If you go to bed feeling stressed, or your mind is racing, you’ll find it tough to sleep. It’s also important to get into a sleep routine. Set a bedtime and stick to it and get up at the same time every morning. This will help your body clock adjust. Give yourself at least 30-60 minutes to embrace calm and tranquility before you go to bed. Run a bath, listen to music, read a book or curl up with the dog in front of the fire.
Your sleep environment is another key element. Think about your bedroom and how soothing and serene it is. If there’s clutter everywhere, it’s bright and there are clashing colors and patterns, you may find it hard to relax. Opt for calming colors, declutter, use soft lighting and add coziness with blankets, cushions and rugs.
Many of us don’t feel our best during winter. It can be hard to get motivated and our health and well-being can take a backseat. If you’re eager to make changes to protect and boost your physical and mental health this winter and you want to look and feel amazing, small steps can make a big difference. Take good care of your skin, prioritize your mental health, exercise regularly, eat a nutritious, balanced diet and evaluate your sleep routine. Getting more exercise, improving your sleep quality and being proactive in shielding and nourishing your skin can help keep the effects of winter at bay.
We are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice and we cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
