Post Holiday Relaxation...

Hello loves, 

Happy New Year! 

I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays with their family and friends. While this time of year is fun and sentimental, it can also be quite stressful. I've found the best thing to do after the New Year rings in, is to take a mental and beauty health day. 

With all the celebrating (ie; overeating and drinking winter cocktails), on top of the lack of sleep, and added holiday stress, your body needs a break! It's so important to make time for yourself. Whether it's for an hour or a full day, you deserve it. 

Here are 5 tips for recuperating after the most wonderful time of the year! 

1. Start with a Meditation.

I've been starting my mornings the past few months with a quick 5 minute meditation and I cannot express to you how helpful it is! It's a great way to start your day, as it puts you in a relaxed, positive mind set-- which helps with stress levels, anxiety, and even my patience! (road rage anyone?!) Taking just 5 minutes in the morning to quiet your mind and breathe deeply is important for your mental state. There are some great guided meditations on Youtube and Chopra.com. 

2. Workout.  

Ick. 

I know. 

But honestly, taking even just 10 minutes to go for a walk will help to open up your mind and release all those wonderful endorphins! It will keep you motivated through the day and help you to feel great about yourself. So take a walk, or do some yoga. It doesn't have to be an extreme workout- just do something active that's fun and relaxing. 

3. Take a bath.

Your muscles may be sore and tired from lack of sleep, stress, NYE dancing... so create an ambiance and allow your muscles to relax and recharge. 

 Add some epsom salts to your bath. You can pick this up at any drugstore, grocery store or online. Ranging anywhere from $3- $10, you can get them unscented or scented (lavender is a favorite of mine for added relaxation). 

*Photo c/o Ulta.com

The salts help relieve muscle tension, stress and smooth your skin. 

4. Water and Vegetables.

A great way to recharge your body after the holidays is to eat lots of green veggies and drink plenty of water. After all the cheese plates and cookies and spiked apple cider, your body will be thanking you for replenishing. 

A great way to start your day is by drinking a big glass of water! If you get that first thing, you will be less likely to go for cereal or a bagel and more likely to make a smart breakfast decision and stay conscious of the amount of water you're drinking. 

Everything you put into your body has a direct effect on your skin- so keep that in mind :) The cleaner you eat, the cleaner your skin! 

5. Sleep.

Seems obvious, but many take sleep for granted! 

Turn off your computer (after reading this of course:)), turn off your phone and go to  bed at a decent hour. Really make sure you get a good night's sleep to try to make up for the lack of sleep over NYE :) Your skin needs this, your brain needs this and your body most definitely needs this. 

I hope this helps to remind you to take care of yourself! It's hard to constantly do all the right things all the time, but if you can dedicate a day or a few hours every week to focusing on these key tips-- it will help you to feel and look your best. 

To relaxation!