It’s not selfish, it’s self-care, and you deserve it. Treat yo self!
Christmas is a time to relax and unwind, but the run-up can take its toll. And while the month is often about treating others, it’s important to look after number one as well.
We’ve filled this guide with tips to guarantee a relaxing holiday season. Take it in and take a load off.
Have a spa day at home
You may have asked for spa vouchers for Christmas, but don’t wait for the New Year to escape. If you can’t make it to the sauna this December, turn your bathroom into an aromatherapy heaven with scented Epsom salts.
This relaxing soak from Eco Bath contains magnesium and sulphate ions that are perfect for improving your skin and soothing your muscles. It’s also made with lavender oil, which is as good a reason as any to have a night in.
Remember also that your scalp is more prone to dryness in December due to the cold weather1. A daily mud treatment, like this one from Sea Magik, can help keep your hair moisturised and your head dandruff-free.
Handpicked article: 3 steps to a more spa-like bathing experience
Take time out for your skin routine
Mud masks can do wonders for your face and leave you with a radiant glow — perfect in this cold weather. While you’re making time for others, take a few hours a week for yourself, or longer if you still have holiday to use up.
As for which mud mask is best, one of our favourites is this Hawaiian volcanic clay mask from Alba Botanica. It’s specifically suited for oily and blackhead prone skin. Alternatively a face oil, such as this one from Fushi, can add suppleness to your skin when combined with moisturising cream.
Handpicked article: How to keep your skin happy this winter
Stock up on herbal teas
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants, which is especially worthwhile if you’ve overdone it at the markets. Outside of this, a calming chamomile tea can also be the perfect accompaniment on these dark evenings. Pour yourself a cup and recline while watching your favourite Christmas film.
Handpicked article: Which tea is for me?
Get your recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep
It may seem like an obvious place to start but there are so many reasons why sleep matters this time of year. For starters, getting a good night’s sleep can boost your immune system2, which is crucial during flu outbreaks.
Sleep is also essential to your mood; you don’t want to get a reputation for being a scrooge. Start by switching off Netflix a little earlier and reading in bed, or invest in a mattress topper and new pillows to help you nod off.
Handpicked article: Your essential guide to a good night’s sleep
Take that yoga class you’ve been putting off
It may not seem relaxing at the time, but yoga can be incredibly valuable to your wellbeing — not to mention it can give you a natural energy boost. Yoga, or any physical activity for that matter, will help you power through everything from the office party to Christmas shopping. Speak to friends or look online for nearby yoga classes, or try one of many apps at home.
Handpicked article: How to stay healthy during the festive season
Have a relaxing break and don’t forget to treat yo self!
Sources
1 Mayo Clinic Staff, Dandruff, Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850
2 Smith, M., Robinson, L., Segal, R. Sleep Needs, Available from: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/sleep-needs-get-the-sleep-you-need.htm
