What’s the first word you think of when somebody says “routine?”
Do you think of negative words like boring, dull, same old…
Or do you associate it with more positive words like planning, consistency, reliable…
How you think and feel about your daily routine can dramatically affect the rest of your life. If you dread your routine, you’re likely to go off course. If you look forward to it, you’re more likely to stick to it and achieve your desired outcomes.
Your daily routine is particularly important when it comes to your health:
How do some individuals maintain vitality and stay active much longer than others?
It’s less about genetics or diet and more about the power of a consistent daily routine.
Sticking to a well-structured routine has profound benefits for your overall well-being, such as:
1. Enhanced mental health: Regular routines reduce anxiety and depression, creating a sense of stability and predictability in your life.
2. Improved sleep quality: A consistent evening routine helps signal to your body when it’s time to wind down, leading to better sleep patterns.
3. Increased productivity: A set routine makes it more likely that you’ll prioritize tasks effectively, reducing procrastination and maximizing productivity.
4. Better stress management: Routine activities, especially those that involve relaxation or mindfulness, can significantly lower stress levels.
5. Healthier eating habits: Planning meals as part of your routine can improve nutritional intake and prevent impulsive, unhealthy eating.
6. Strengthened immune system: Regular exercise and sufficient sleep, both components of a good routine, can boost your immune function.
If you’re like most of us, that sounds like a pretty good deal!
And the best part is creating (and sticking to) a routine isn’t that hard.
On the contrary, with a few tips and some guidance, developing a routine that improves your overall health can be super rewarding and fun.
Are you ready to take advantage of all the benefits of a healthy routine?
Here are 6 keys to developing the perfect routine to help you win the day:
1. Start With Clarity (Mindful Mornings)
Begin your day by setting a clear intention. Dedicate five minutes to meditation, focusing on your breath to center your thoughts. Follow this with five minutes of journaling, writing down what you’re grateful for and your top three priorities for the day. This practice boosts mood and productivity and aligns your actions with your personal goals.
2. Hydrate and Nourish (The First Hour)
Start with two glasses of water within the first 30 minutes of waking to rehydrate and kickstart your digestion. Follow this with a balanced breakfast with a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. For example, you could have a spinach and feta omelet with a side of whole-grain toast, setting a nutritious tone for the day.
3. Movement (Energizing Beginnings)
Incorporate at least 15 minutes of morning exercise. This could be a brisk walk, a series of yoga poses tailored to awaken your body or a short bodyweight workout circuit. Exercise boosts circulation, enhances mood, and sets a positive energy tone for your day.
4. Dress for Success (The Confidence Uniform)
Choose appropriate outfits for your day’s activities and ones that make you feel confident and positive. This doesn’t mean dressing formally but rather intentionally selecting clothes that reflect your personal style and the energy you wish to carry into your day.
5. Sunshine and Fresh Air (The Natural Reset)
Spend at least 10 minutes outdoors in natural light. Morning sunlight helps regulate your body’s clock, improves mood, and can contribute to vitamin D intake. This could be a short walk, a moment with your morning beverage on the balcony, or simply standing in a sunny spot.
6. Enjoy a Mindful Moment (Savoring the Start)
Conclude your morning routine with a practice that offers a sense of reward. Brew a cup of quality coffee or tea, and take the time to really savor it. This isn’t just about the beverage—it’s about taking a moment to pause and appreciate the start of your day before diving into your tasks.
Bonus: Supplementing Your Routine for Enhanced Well-Being
Adding a supplement like Stonehenge Health’sDynamic Liposomal Vitamin C to your morning routine can amplify the benefits of each of these practices. Its superior absorption and efficacy ensure that your body gets the immune support, antioxidant protection, and skin health benefits it needs to complement your health-focused lifestyle.*
Incorporating high-quality supplements ensures that as you nurture your mind and body through your daily practices, you’re also providing cellular-level support, rounding out a holistic approach to well-being.
Creating a structured daily routine incorporating these practices and mindful supplementation sets a solid foundation for health, vitality, and productivity.
Here’s to building a life filled with purpose, good health, and joy through the transformative power of routine.
Beauty isn’t just about having a pretty face. It’s about radiating confidence and feeling comfortable in your skin.
Over time, beauty experts have shared numerous tips and tricks to help enhance natural beauty. Here are the top ten timeless beauty tips that you need to know, with a surprising unconventional idea taking the lead.
1. Embrace Your Unique Beauty
There is a profound truth in understanding that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it is diverse, subjective, and deeply personal. Recognizing this, it’s important to embrace the notion that every individual possesses a unique form of beauty – and yes, that includes you.
Your uniqueness is your strength. It sets you apart from the crowd and makes you who you are. So, cherish your individuality. Your so-called ‘imperfections’ are not flaws but distinguishing features that contribute to your overall beauty.
Instead of conforming to what society says is beautiful, which often tends to be narrow and unrealistic, focus on enhancing your natural beauty. Celebrate your unique features, your skin, your body shape, and your distinct characteristics. The most beautiful people are those who feel comfortable in their own skin and aren’t afraid to show the world their authentic selves.
Remember, confidence is key. There is nothing more attractive than a person who carries themselves with self-assuredness. Confidence isn’t about being arrogant or thinking you’re better than others; it’s about recognizing your worth and not being afraid to express it. When you wear your confidence proudly, it radiates from you, making you even more attractive.
So, step into your power. Embrace your unique beauty, and don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise. Because at the end of the day, true beauty comes from within, and there’s nothing more beautiful than being unapologetically you.
2.Commit to a Skincare Routine Inside + Out
Maintaining a radiant complexion requires more than just surface-level care. It’s about committing to a skincare routine that nurtures your skin from the inside as well as the outside.
Regular cleansing, toning, and moisturizing are foundational steps for preserving your skin’s natural glow. Cleanse your face twice daily to eliminate dirt and excess oils. Follow with a toner to restore your skin’s pH balance, and conclude with a moisturizer to keep your skin soft and hydrated.
It’s widely understood that exposure to the sun can cause skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer. Hence, it’s crucial to begin your day by applying sunscreen, regardless of the weather conditions. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens as they protect against UVA and UVB rays. Aim to use a product with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal protection.
But don’t stop there. Your skin’s health is also significantly influenced by what happens beneath the surface.
The Power of Vitamin C for Skin Health and Beauty
Vitamin C is a unique antioxidant that has a vital role in promoting collagen production, a protein that enhances skin firmness and elasticity, keeping it plump and youthful2.
Moreover, vitamin C protects against sun damage and supports the skin’s ability to combat harmful UV rays2. Furthermore, a high vitamin C intake helps decrease skin dryness and retains water in the skin, providing essential moisture2.
Because vitamin C deficiency can lead to dry skin and a reduction in collagen synthesis, along with an unsupported immune system, consider taking a high-quality daily supplement like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Liposomal Vitamin C.*
This liposomal formula is a blend of 1,500 mg of fat-soluble and highly bioavailable vitamin C and ascorbic acid. Dynamic Liposomal Vitamin Cefficiently replenishes your daily needs.* Subtle, glowing skin, here you come.
3. Nature’s Spa: Cold Showers
Surprisingly, one of the most unconventional yet effective beauty tips is to take cold showers. While it might sound daunting at first, cold showers can provide numerous beauty benefits. They help skin feel firmer, which may also help reduce the appearance of other imperfections. Cold showers also stimulate blood circulation, promoting healthier skin and hair. Plus, they can wake you up in the morning and leave you feeling invigorated and refreshed, adding a natural glow to your beauty.1
To take a cold shower – start with 30 seconds of cold water at around 70°F and gradually increase the duration while you lower the temperature – go no lower than around 60°F
Be aware that cold showers can constrict your airways — making them particularly dangerous for people with heart and lung conditions.
4. Healthy Eating
Indeed, the adage “you are what you eat” holds true. A well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and wholesome fats supports your skin’s health from the inside out.
The magic lies particularly in foods teeming with antioxidants like berries and leafy greens. Antioxidants, including vitamins C, A, E, and carotenoids, safeguard cells from damage inflicted by free radicals, according to Mayo Clinic3. Moreover, an antioxidant-rich diet, replete with fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains, and fatty fish, fosters healthy skin.4
Therefore, incorporating nutrient-dense foods rich in antioxidants, including certain types of berries, nuts, and vegetables, into your diet not only combats harmful free radicals but also slows the aging process and promotes overall well-being.5
5. Sleep & Stress Reduction
The concept of beauty sleep is far from fictional. As you slumber, your body enters a restorative phase, mending and revitalizing your skin. Coupled with effective stress management techniques, you can further enhance your body’s healing process. Strive for a solid 7-9 hours of sleep each night while incorporating relaxation practices into your routine to keep stress at bay.
The enhanced blood flow carries oxygen and nutrients to your skin cells, promoting their health and vitality. This nourishment helps the cells perform their functions optimally and can even facilitate collagen production, a protein responsible for maintaining your skin’s elasticity and firmness.
7. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Taking care of your skin is a key part of overall health and beauty, requiring attention to internal and external factors. Internally, dehydration can have a detrimental impact on your skin’s health. That’s why ensuring you’re drinking enough water to keep your body well-hydrated from the inside is crucial. Externally, your skin could be harmed by environmental factors like sun exposure, pollution, and harsh weather conditions.
A quality moisturizer plays a significant role here. Regularly applying a good moisturizer across your entire body helps restore the skin’s hydration levels, keeping it soft and plump. It also acts as a shield against external damage, trapping essential moisture and nutrients in the skin while warding off harmful environmental effects. Thus, staying well-hydrated, both internally and externally, is a vital beauty tip for promoting healthier, more glowing skin.
8. Remove Makeup Before Bed
Wearing makeup can enhance your features and boost your confidence, but it’s crucial to remember that leaving it on overnight can damage our skin.
One of the main problems with not removing makeup before sleep is that it can clog your pores. Throughout the day, makeup, combined with the natural oils and sweat our skin produces, can accumulate in the pores, leading to blockages. These blockages are often the root cause of unwanted breakouts, blackheads, and a dull complexion.
Therefore, it’s essential to always remove your makeup before going to bed, regardless of how exhausted you may feel. It might be tempting to skip this step, especially after a long day or a night out, but keeping your skin clean and clear requires consistency in your skincare routine. Your skin does most of its healing and rejuvenating while you’re asleep, so give it the best chance to do so by ensuring it’s clean.
9. Don’t Neglect Your Hair
The condition of your hair is not necessarily an indicator of your overall health or well-being, mainly as natural changes occur with aging. However, it still requires a similar level of care and attention as any other part of your body.
Regular trims, deep conditioning treatments, and avoiding excessive heat styling can help maintain healthy, shiny hair. Also, choose hair products suitable for your hair type and concerns.
Making the most of your hair doesn’t always mean investing in expensive treatments or products. It’s also about nurturing from within.
Biotin (B7), Vitamin D, A, and E all play an important role in the health of your hair.6
Omega-3 is a vital form of fatty acid that performs a critical function in maintaining your body’s overall health and well-being. These fatty acids are known for their nourishing properties that can help keep your hair healthy and support its thickening.6 However, omega-3 is classified as “essential” because your body cannot produce it on its own, and it must be obtained from dietary sources.
Adding a quality omega-3 like Stonehenge Health Dynamic Krill Oil to your routine can also help combat dryness from within and soothe a dry or irritated scalp.*
10. Don’t Neglect Your Teeth
A critical aspect of beauty that is often overlooked is dental hygiene. Your smile can be one of your most attractive features, so don’t neglect your teeth!
Regular cleaning and flossing not only keep your teeth and gums healthy, but they also prevent bad breath – a definite beauty faux pas. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three months. Electric toothbrushes deliver a more thorough cleaning so certainly worth the investment.
Regular visits to the dentist help catch any potential issues early and can provide professional cleanings that you just can’t get at home. A bright smile goes a long way in enhancing your overall appearance. So, make dental care a non-negotiable part of your beauty routine!
These timeless beauty tips, including our unconventional cold showers tip, are tried and tested methods for maintaining and enhancing natural beauty. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help you look and feel your best. Remember, beauty comes from within, so take care of your body, stay positive, and let your inner beauty shine through.
Sources:
1. The Benefits Of Taking Cold Showers For Your Skin | SkinMindBalance (aveeno.com)
2. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. Nutrients. 2017 Aug 12;9(8):866.
3. “Slide Show: Add Antioxidants to Your Diet.” Mayo Clinic, March 1, 2022.
4. “Antioxidants: Are There Good for You? Pros and Cons.” WebMD.
5. “Antioxidants.” The Nutrition Source, March 3, 2021.
6. Almohanna, Hind M et al. Dermatology and therapy, March 2019.
Whether you’re planning a trip to visit family in the Midwest or heading south for sunnier skies, the excitement of holiday travel is kicking in. Loved ones are getting ready to celebrate, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
However, amidst the festive joy, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being. Regardless of whether you find yourself surrounded by snow or basking in the sun, maintaining awareness of your health and safety is essential.
Why? Because nothing can dampen holiday fun quicker than exhaustion, an upset stomach, or a blown tire.
And, by the way, these travel tips go beyond the holiday season—they’re your year-round guide to safe and enjoyable journeys. Let’s ensure your adventures are memorable for all the right reasons, leaving you with cherished moments instead of unexpected obstacles.
1. Plan Ahead for Safe Routes
One of the keys to safe holiday travel is meticulous planning. Whether driving or flying, check for the latest travel advisories, weather conditions, and road closures. Utilize navigation apps that provide real-time updates and alternative routes, so you can make informed decisions on the road. Monitor flight statuses for air travel to anticipate potential delays or cancellations.
And regardless of the mode of transportation, prioritize personal safety by taking precautions against potential risks. For road trips, ensure your vehicle is well-maintained with a check on tire pressure, brakes, and fluid levels. Consider chains for snowy and hazardous areas. Have on hand essentials like a first aid kit, flashlight, and non-perishable snacks. For air travel, familiarize yourself with the aircraft’s safety features, listen to the safety briefing, and follow guidelines from the airline crew.
2. Tackle Jet Lag Before it Starts
Heading out for a holiday adventure is a thrill but, the downside is the potential challenge of jet lag. Fortunately, there are clever tactics to guarantee you arrive feeling your best.
Firstly, tackle jet lag even before you take off. Adjust your sleep schedule a bit before your holiday trip to sync up with your destination. This pre-travel sleep shift helps your body adapt to the new time zone, reducing the shock when you arrive.
As you soar through the skies, keeping hydrated is crucial. Skip the pre-flight cocktails and caffeine – they can increase dehydration, worsening jet lag. Opt for plenty of water to keep your body well-hydrated and combat the dehydrating effects of air travel.
Upon touchdown, soak in some sunlight. Spend time outdoors, letting the sun hit you. It acts as a reset button for your body clock, signaling it’s time to be awake and alert. These simple steps can go a long way in ensuring a smoother transition during your holiday travels.
3. Stay Hydrated & Nourished
Dehydration is common during travel, particularly on long flights or road trips. And dehydration is known to exacerbate illness, exhaustion and jet lag. Remember to carry a water bottle and stay well-hydrated throughout your journey. You may even want to consider supplemental electrolytes. Pack healthy snacks like nuts and high-fiber fruit to keep your energy levels stable. For road trips, plan stops at rest areas where you can stretch and enjoy a nourishing meal.
4. Practice Safe Sleeping Habits
Whether you’re staying at a hotel, with family, or in a fancy vacation rental, the quality of your sleep can significantly impact your overall experience. One key factor in achieving restful sleep is maintaining safe sleeping habits.
If possible, use your own pillowcases and bed linens – cleanliness is paramount. If you’re not using your linens, ensure that the provided ones are clean and well-maintained. This not only contributes to a more hygienic sleeping environment but also minimizes the risk of allergies or irritations.
In addition to physical comfort, mental peace is crucial for a good night’s sleep. Keep important items like identification and medications within easy reach. Knowing that you have everything you need close by can alleviate potential stressors and contribute to a more relaxed state of mind.
5. Immunity
Traveling during the holidays often means exposure to crowded spaces, increasing the risk of picking up bugs. Prioritize your immune health by maintaining good hygiene practices. Wash your hands frequently, bring hand sanitizer, and avoid touching your face. Drink lots of water, get adequate rest, and consider taking immune-supporting supplements, such as Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic ImmunityandDynamic Liposomal Vitamin C before and during your journey.*
6. Traveler’s Diarrhea
Digestive issues, particularly traveler’s diarrhea, can be a significant concern during travel. To minimize the risk, opt for well-cooked and hot foods, avoid street food in areas with questionable hygiene practices, and drink bottled or purified water.
Consider taking a probiotic supplement that contains the strain L. rhamnosus GG (LGG) like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Biotics before and during your travels. Probiotics and LGG strain in particular promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, aiding digestive health, thereby easing travel-related upset stomach and traveler’s diarrhea.*
As you embark on your holiday travel adventures, remember that safety is the key to truly savoring the joy of the season. By incorporating these safety tips into your travel plans, you’re not just protecting yourself and your loved ones, but you’re also ensuring a smooth and memorable journey. Whether you’re exploring new destinations, reuniting with family, or simply taking a well-deserved break, make safety a priority. From all of us here, we wish you a holiday season filled with warmth, laughter, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve taken steps to stay safe on your festive travels. Safe journeys and happy holidays! 🌟✈️
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Ah, the sun’s warm embrace on our skin – it’s sheer bliss! But I confess I often forget about the consequences until it’s too late. Now that summer has drawn to a close, it’s time to face the music: crepey, dry skin is making its presence known, and my arms, legs, and neckline are proof of that. You see, it’s common to experience crepey, dry skin at the end of the summer season. Those summer months bring higher temperatures and increased sun exposure into the picture. Prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays leads to dehydration and the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, contributing to a crepe appearance. And as if that’s not enough, our skin takes a hit from spending time in chlorinated pools, saltwater, or air-conditioned environments, further sapping its moisture and leaving it dehydrated and flaky.
7 Steps for Tackling End-of-Summer Crepe Skin
1. Hydration Is Key
Begin by hydrating your body from the inside out. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your skin plump and become more moisturized.
2. Exfoliation
Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your skincare routine to remove dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover. Be cautious not to overdo it, as mature skin is more delicate. You can find numerous exfoliating products in stores and online, including body scrubs, exfoliating gloves, loofahs, and chemical exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). Choose the one that suits your skin type and preferences.
3. Moisturize Daily
Invest in a rich, hydrating body lotion or cream. Applying it daily can help lock in moisture and improve skin elasticity. The best types of moisturizers to hydrate skin are those that are rich in emollients and humectants. Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and ceramides, as they help to lock in moisture, repair the skin’s barrier, and provide long-lasting hydration.
4. Sunscreen for All
Summer may be over, but it is still essential that you protect your skin from UV rays. Extend your facial sunscreen habit to other exposed areas. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your arms, legs, and décolleté before stepping outdoors if they are going to be exposed to the elements.
5. Cool Showers
Opt for lukewarm or cool showers if you can do it. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils.
6. Body Oils
Consider incorporating natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil into your skincare routine. Using a moisturizer and body oil together can provide a dual benefit by replenishing moisture and sealing it in, helping to hydrate and nourish dry, crepey skin deeply.
7. Nourish Your Skin from the Inside
Your skin is a living, breathing organ. Treat it right with a diet rich in antioxidants from fruits and veggies, which can help combat free radical damage that ages the look of your skin.
You can even dabble in skin-loving supplements like Vitamin C and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and plays a critical role in collagen production. Collagen maintains skin’s elasticity and firmness. Collagen production drops as we age, leading to sagging and crepey skin. A quality Vitamin C supplement like Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Liposomal Vitamin C can help support collagen synthesis and helps combat the effects of sun damage caused by free radicals. The result is healthier and more resilient skin.*
Omega-3 fatty acids maintain skin hydration, support a healthy lipid barrier to prevent moisture loss, and enhance overall skin health, including texture. While omega-3s are found in plant sources like Brussels sprouts, spinach, flaxseeds, and walnuts, seafood remains the best source. Studies show that most people do not get enough omega-3 from their diet. Stonehenge Health’s Dynamic Krill Oil, which packs 320mg of omega-3 fatty acids, promotes firm and radiant skin.*
Treating end-of-summer crepe skin isn’t just about looks; it’s self-care in action. So, embrace the journey to healthier skin, savor the lessons, and let your radiant self shine through. Remember, it’s never too late to pamper your skin!
There you have it – your guide to tackling crepey skin at the end of summer. Go forth, be fabulous, and flaunt your beautiful, well-nourished skin with pride!
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
