My theme for this winter is: Gentleness. We have all been through a difficult year and though the holidays are often a welcomed, happy distraction, sometimes they bring a sense of loneliness and stress with them. We are quick to judge ourselves on things like what we eat and what kind of presents we can afford. We are also inclined to focus on who can’t be with us for the holidays, instead of showing appreciation for those who can. For the rest of this month, amidst all of the holiday chaos, I am making it a priority to be gentle with myself (and my skin). Join me in prioritizing self-love this holiday season by practicing these gentle tips for both your mental and skin health. 

1. Daily Affirmations

Start your day off with a positive mindset. Consider affirmations such as:

-Today is a fresh start. 

-I am grateful for all that I have.

-I love myself for who I am.

-Today is going to be a good day.

2. Wash Your Face With A Gentle Cleanser

Start your day with a clean slate — literally and figuratively. In the winter, it is important to use a cleanser that does not strip away the skin’s natural moisture and oils. Our Energize Cleanser is free of SLS, artificial fragrances, and alcohol, so it makes for the perfect gentle cleanser during winter months. 

3. Moisturize 

There is nothing worse than dry, flaky, and cracked skin. Apply our Hydrate Moisturizer to your face 2-3 times daily to keep your skin from drying out. Apply our Soften Body Lotion after you shower, and try to refrain from taking showers that are too hot! 

4. Use a Humidifier 

Both the air and our skin tend to dry out and retain less moisture during winter months. Add a humidifier to your home to bring moisture back into the air. Not only will this help with your skin, but it will also help prevent sinus congestion and a sore throat, keeping you healthy for the holidays. 

5. Lip Care

Sometimes we forget about our lips when going through our skincare routine. Apply Natural Baller’s Nourish Lip Balm throughout the day to keep your lips from getting dry and cracked. 

6. Read

Many of us look forward to that moment at night when we can finally turn on the tv and scroll through our phones, but this is not real relaxation. Screens keep our mind awake, while a good book allows us the opportunity to really disconnect for a while. I am currently reading “The Royal We” by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan, and it is the perfect distraction to calm my mind before bed (plus I’m a sucker for a good love story!)

During the holiday season, we fill our minds with thoughts about what we can give to others. This holiday season, don’t forget to take some time to give yourself the gift of gentleness. You will be happy that you did!