Achieving the goals that you have set doesn’t mean that you have to punish yourself. Why set the goal of losing weight, when you can set the goal of trying to learn how to play basketball? Both will achieve the same result, but one involves more fun and less pressure. If you want to make sure that you are benefitting your health with the hobbies that you choose, then you can find some of the best ones below.

Coloring

Coloring was once an activity that was meant for children. Now we live in a world that revolves around increased workloads and round-the-clock tech, and it would seem that adult coloring is quickly becoming popular. It is a great way for you to make yourself feel as though you are in the present moment, and it can also help you to feel way less stressed too. If you want a good hobby that won’t take up too much of your time, then coloring is certainly a good option. If you have a creative side, then this is a very good way for you to help ground yourself during very stressful times.

Keep a Journal

You may not think that keeping a journal is a good idea if you are stressed, but it can actually help you to strengthen your immune system. It helps you to come to terms with any stressful life events and it can also help you to buffer the impact on your health. If you want to reap the benefits, then consider writing first thing in the morning. This will help you to organize your thoughts and it will also help you to start each day off on the right foot. Enthusiasts claim that keeping a journal helps to inspire creativity and productivity. It can also help you to plan out what you want to do and why.

Pottery

Pottery is a fantastic way for you to make something for a loved one. It has been scientifically proven to reduce levels of stress, and it can also help you if you are prone to depression. Pottery provides you with a way to channel your stress and it can also give you the chance to get super creative. As the wheel spins and the clay starts to form, you can then help yourself to feel more synergized with your surroundings. A large part of the brain is dedicated to the sensitivity and movement of your hands, so pottery is a very good way for you to channel this. Plasticine is another option, and you can also learn how to make figures, which can be used to further a videography hobby. Want to find out more? Why not look into how to make a stop motion video?

Baking

Baking is a very good way for you to unwind and it is also a great way for you to make comforting snacks for the family. The best thing about baking is that you can be destructive, by cracking eggs but then you end up turning that into something constructive. By the end, you will have something to be proud of, as well as something that you can truly show off.

Reading

Did you know that if you engage in a good book for just 6 minutes, you can reduce your stress levels by over two thirds? This makes it far more effective when compared to having a cup of tea, and it can also help you to get the mental escape you are looking for as well if you are struggling with stress and loss of energy. If you are having a hard time finding a good book to get into then there are many options out there for you to choose from. You can also buy yourself an e-reader so you can read while you are on the go. This is the best way for you to make sure that you are able to get the stress relief you need without breaking the bank.

Candle Making

Another thing that you can do if you want to benefit your mental health would be for you to try your hand at making candles. When you do delve into the world of candle making, you will soon find that you can create some magical creations and that you can also give some out as gifts too. You will feel proud of the fact that you can store them around the home, and you can push your talent as much as you want as well.

All in all, having a good hobby will help you to make sure that you relieve stress, and it will also help you to unwind as well. Why not see how far you could take some of the above ideas, and push yourself to try something new?

As winter approaches, we all crave to know some skincare tricks to help us get that glowing skin. I mean, who doesn’t want a gorgeous, glowing complexion to rival that of a newborn baby? Beautiful skin can help us to feel so much more confident. Not only that, skincare is crucial to our overall health and well being! Taking care of your skin will ensure you avoid sun damage and the problems that come with it. If you want to know what you can do to begin glowing like a goddess, read on for skincare tricks you’ll swear by.

Double Cleanse 

Double cleansing is a must, especially if you wear makeup/SPF. Even if you don’t, cleansing twice can ensure your skin is super clean and bouncy and ready for the application of treatments, toners, and creams. You just don’t want to use anything too hard if you’re going to double cleanse, After all, this could strip your skin and make it dry. Or alternatively, it could increase oil production and make it greasy. You need to find a balance without compromising your skin barrier. It’s a good idea to use a creamy, hydrating cleanser as your first cleanse. hen use a slightly more foamy cleanser as your second cleanse. Make sure you avoid using hot water on your face, and use a clean flannel to remove everything properly! 

Know Your Skin Type 

Your skin type will impact the sort of products you use. Mature skin, for instance, would perhaps get on better with anti-ageing products, alongside super hydrating products. Those with oily skin would want to avoid anything too heavy. Pay attention to who the products you’re buying are made for. If you’re struggling to wrap your head around this, visit an esthetician or a dermatologist. 

Eat And Drink Well 

Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals can help you to glow from the inside out. When you’re having a bad skin day, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s down to something you have consumed. It could just be hormones. Or how well you’re treating yourself. Make sure you’re fueling your body in the best way possible can really make a difference! 

Choose Your Products Carefully 

When it comes to skincare tricks, choosing your products and the brands you want to work with carefully can make a big difference. Check out the vegan skin care at a place like doseofcolors.com and compare with non-vegan skincare. You’ll see that many of the ingredients in non vegan skincare tend to be harsh and not great for the skin. 

Be Consistent

Consistency is a must with any skincare routine. You should perform your morning and night routine each day. You won’t always get instantaneous results. So you need to stick it out. 

Give Your Products A Chance To Work

Products that you introduce into your routine are going to need to be given a chance to work. Some products may give you results right away, such as exfoliating products. However, other products may need a couple of weeks, or even a couple of months before you can see their full impact. Don’t throw a product away immediately if it isn’t doing anything for you. Some products can also cause breakouts when you first start using them, but can settle down after a little while. Of course, if the breakouts persist longer than a few weeks, the product probably doesn’t suit your skin. Pay close attention and don’t change too much about your routine at once so you have an understanding of which product is having a certain effect. 

Apply SPF Every Single Day

SPF should be applied every single morning, no questions asked. The sun can damage the skin regardless of the season, and even whether it is bright out or not. Keeping your skin safe and protected will help you to avoid damage and premature ageing – even when you are in the house. Sun damage can still happen through windows! 

Exfoliate – But Not Too Much

Exfoliating your skin will ensure a smooth base and buff off those dead skin cells. You can use a physical, gentle scrub (be careful, as some create micro tears in the skin and aren’t safe). Alternatively, using a product like glycolic acid can help to buff away dead skin and reveal a glowing base beneath. 

Understand Why We Use Certain Skincare Products 

Understanding a little more about certain skincare products can help you to understand why we use them. Many of them do various things for the skin, for example:

• Retinol – resurfacing and anti aging. 
• Niacinamide – oil control, skin barrier repair. 
• Vitamin C – brightening, free radical protection. 

Do your own research and figure out what you need!

Self care is such an important responsibility to consider when aiming to achieve optimum well-being. It can seem like a minefield of different topics, opinions and ideas though. Sometimes, those minefield elements can be quite hard to wrap your head around. Luckily, figuring out how to make the most of self care doesn’t need to be as difficult as you might think. There are a few key areas in which you can focus your efforts to help you travel this territory. So, if you would like to find out more about how you can indulge in the most beneficial self care, then read on. 

Eat A Balanced Diet 

One of the most important steps that you must follow in order to maintain optimum well-being is to eat a balanced diet. The food that you eat directly converts to the fuel that your mind and body uses to perform each task. This includes the growth and repair of muscles and the energy you rely on to get up and go. Eating foods which are high in low-quality fats, sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients will provide you with very little fuel. Instead, they’ll encourage illnesses such as diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, and more. It’s vital to stop the association between unhealthy foods and the concept of ‘treating yourself’. You see, a treat that can make you sick, isn’t really a treat at all.

A balanced diet should consist of a wide variety of healthy, high-quality fats, sustainable, grass-fed and free-range proteins, and fresh fruits and vegetables to pack a nutrient rich punch. Eating a balanced diet is the foundation of all self care, as you need to consume a range of vitamins and minerals each and every day to perform at your best. If you’re unsure of how to actually create these healthy meals, then don’t fret. There are so many easy to follow recipes online that can be utilized by even the most novice of chefs! You’re bound to feel the benefits of your new healthy diet almost immediately after you make the switch to health-focused. So there’s no time like the present to start making better food choices. 

Work Out Regularly 

Unfortunately, many people have a negative relationship with exercise that encourages them to avoid working out altogether. Failing to exercise for at least 30-60 minutes a day may inspire a range of difficulties and conditions that could have otherwise been avoided. For the benefit of your well-being, it’s essential that you learn to embrace it. There are so many different exercise styles that you can explore, from high energy training such as rock climbing to low impact sports like yoga. And even home workouts that can be done from the comfort of your living room! It’s almost guaranteed that there’s a sport out there that you can manage on a regular basis. The positive side effects that you can experience as a result of your participation will make it all worthwhile.

Regular exercise can be very beneficial for maintaining good mental health. It’s a great way to release stress while improving stamina too. To add to this, working out can help to maintain a high metabolism which as a result can manage weight levels. It also improves blood flow and cardiovascular health. A workout can also be an opportunity to turn a bad day around. How? Well, the boost known as a ‘runner’s high’ after a particularly strenuous exercise session can provide you with a rush of endorphins for a totally natural feeling of euphoria. Whether you decide to attend your local gym or sports center, invest in some home sports equipment, or simply find an easy to follow YouTube tutorial, you’ll benefit.

You can experiment with a few different activities to find the best fit for your preferences. Just be sure to give it your all and don’t give up on the first try! 

Focus On Personal Hygiene 

When you think of self care, you may picture yourself lounging in a hot bubble bath with a face mask and cucumber slices. Though this might be a little cliche, focusing on your personal hygiene is actually an important aspect of your well-being. This is something that can be of benefit for both your mental and physical health. Taking a regular shower or bath can easily become a tricky task when you suffer from low mood or lead a busy lifestyle. But taking some time out once a day to cleanse yourself is vital for your skin’s health. Help motivate yourself by investing in some moisturizing shower cream and a deliciously scented shampoo.

Doing something as simple as climbing out of bed to shower and brush your teeth can help to set you up for the day ahead. So this should become a part of your usual routine to maintain optimum well-being. Additionally, taking part in a skincare regime can add a little luxury while improving your confidence too! You can find lots of tips for dry skin on your face that can pack a moisturizing punch, as well as anti-oil tricks and steps to help tackle redness and discoloration. Spending some time focusing on your own wants and needs in this way can increase your self worth and assurance, as you’re able to address your own unique needs in your own unique way. 

Meditate & Unwind Often 

Modern life can bring about a host of sources of stress and anxiety. It can be beneficial to take the chance to meditate and unwind often. Meditation is a tradition that has been utilized for many centuries, and the practice focuses on encouraging the participant to free their mind of invasive and negative thoughts. The aim is to achieve a more balanced, enlightened state. Meditation is a key aspect of self care, as the practice can provide you with the skills you need to better handle certain situations. It also encourages calmness and tranquility to flow from within.

There are many step by step guides that can walk you through the process of successful meditation. And there are also many specialized guided sessions with specialist gurus that can help you achieve your goal. If meditation isn’t really your thing, simply taking the opportunity to unwind by taking a walk in nature can have a similarly beneficial effect. Finding ways to remove yourself from the usual worry of daily life can give you a much needed break, both physically and mentally. 

Learn To Say No 

Setting boundaries can be a difficult task, as you may not initially associate such an activity with self care. However, learning to say no is a key part of personal progress as this means that you are able to successfully recognize your worth and value as an individual. Becoming your own main priority will allow you to set boundaries that suit you and only you. This takes the pressure off you attempting to accommodate other people’s needs before your own. If you do not feel comfortable in a situation, whether this is at work or in your personal life, don’t simply suffer through it. Make your opinion known and choose to find a resolution. Or remove yourself completely for the sake of your mental and physical well-being.

You are the master of your own destiny, and you cannot let other people make important decisions on your behalf. It can be tough to learn how to say no, especially when you have always said yes in the past. But having the right support around you can be a huge help. Visiting a therapist or counselor may be of benefit in this respect, as they will be able to offer some great tips and tricks that encourage you to keep control. You’ll also learn skills to create and implement your own boundaries. 

With any luck, the super self care concepts detailed above can help you to achieve and maintain ultimate mental and physical well-being in no time at all. Staying fit and healthy is so important for your quality of life. And learning how to become your own main priority makes this so much easier to achieve. Start off by laying the best foundations, eating a nutritious, balanced diet, exercising regularly, meditating often and focusing on personal hygiene to help you feel your absolute best.

Well-being is all about living with intention and supporting yourself to feel as healthy and as happy as possible. Of course, it’s impossible to feel 100% amazing all of the time, but what you can do is set goals to improve your wellness.

Learn A New Skill

One of the best ways to boost your well-being is to learn a new skill. When we learn something new, we experience a challenge; raise our confidence; boost our endorphin levels; and potentially extend our social circles. All you have to do is figure out which new hobby you want to try. It could be learning a new language or a creative practice. Perhaps a new sports hobby is more suited to you? Whatever you choose to try, be patient throughout the learning process, and don’t forget to have fun with it!

Improve Your Financial Health

Many of us worry about money, whether it’s debt, retirement, or landing a new job. To supercharge your well-being, it’s helpful to regain control of your finances. To support your progress, here are a few options.

Start investing: Investing is a fantastic way to take control of your future finances and make some extra money. You don’t need to invest a huge amount. Start small and try Robo Advisors, or paying into a 401K.

Rework your budget: A detailed budget is one of the best ways to start making savings, and you can do this easily using applications such as GoodBudget or Mint.

Eliminate your debt: Many people are held back by debt, but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are several financial programs available that allow you to eliminate your debt and start fresh. One example is the DTSS program; for more information, take a look at http://www.dtss.us/about.html.

Reconnect With The Great Outdoors

The natural world is scientifically proven to boost our wellness levels, yet many don’t spend nearly enough time outside! Reconnecting with the outdoors doesn’t cost a thing, and there are plenty of physical and mental health benefits. Whether it’s hiking in the forest, swimming in the lakes, or relaxing at the beach, the natural world can help you to look after your mental health.

Start A Journaling Practice

We all go through stressful periods in our lives, and writing in a journal is a great way to express these feelings and heal. Next time you’re feeling emotional, take out your journal and write down how you feel. Remember, no one has to read this writing apart from you. The practice is useful to express yourself honestly and arrive at new levels of clarity.

Give Back To The Community

Studies have shown that helping others can improve our wellness levels. There may be charity work that you can get involved with locally, or perhaps online. You don’t need to have lots of spare time, even one hour a week working could make a massive difference to someone else’s life!

We humans are visual creatures. Those of us who are sighted (the majority of us) make sense of the world through what we see. But that doesn’t mean that we can afford to neglect our hearing. Our lifestyles, our habits, and genetic conditions like Meniere’s Disease can all conspire to cause our hearing to deteriorate. And very often it happens so slowly and incrementally that we don’t even realize that something has gone awry until our hearing has already deteriorated considerably. Your ears are important. They help you to connect with other people. They help you to communicate at work, at home and in your leisure activities. And you probably wouldn’t be able to live life as you know it without them.

With that in mind, here are some ways in which you can, and should, take care of your ears and your hearing.

Stop using Q-Tips!

Nobody likes the thought of having waxy ears. But while it may not be the most pleasant substance on the planet, ear wax is surprisingly important. It is naturally antibacterial, it keeps the skin of your inner ears soft and it prevents nasty stuff from entering your body through your ear drum. With that in mind, stop cleaning out your ears with Q-Tips. They can push ear wax further into the ear canal causing it to get compacted and in some cases can even cause you to do damage to the ear drum.

See your audiologist regularly

Don’t believe the hearing loss myths. If your hearing is starting to deteriorate, it’s not going to get better on its own. You need to see your audiologist regularly. They can check for signs that your hearing has deteriorated and recommend a hearing aid if you need one. They can also clean your ears for you safely and effectively. They can even refer you to an ENT specialist if they see something in your ears that might necessitate surgical intervention.

Protect your ears in loud environments

Do you adore live music? Do you rarely leave the home without your headphones settled in place? Do you work with noisy machinery? Or are you a musician in an amateur or professional capacity? Spending a lot of time in noisy environments can seriously damage your hearing. But you don’t have to sacrifice what you’re hearing when you turn down the volume. It’s simply a case of finding the right ear plugs.

Turn down the volume on your headphones

Speaking of headphones, nobody’s suggesting that you can’t enjoy your favorite music, podcasts or audio books while you’re on the go. However, it’s worth considering that the volume settings on most smartphones and mp3 players are color coded fro a reason. If you routinely stray into the red zone when listening, it could risk impairing your hearing in the future.

Go easy on the caffeine and salt

Finally, an excess of caffeine and salt can not only exacerbate worry and stress, and lead to a greater risk of hypertension, they can also impair your hearing. They can worsen imbalances of the fluids in the inner ears especially if you have an undiagnosed genetic condition like Meniere’s Disease. This in turn can lead to damage to your auditory nerves… So for your ears and your general health it might be time to make the switch to decaf!

I have enjoyed a great week, and wanted to share some of the more exciting parts with you! I don’t know which one to tell first. Dogs, Bees, which one? They’re both equally as cool! So let’s just start off with the mutual topic at hand – books! I’ve got an audiobook about dogs coming out and a new novel about bees as well! woot! woot! Two lovables I absolutely adore with every ounce of my being. 

Dogs

Okay let’s start with the audiobook news. A New Leash on Life is going to be made into an audiobook! It will be released in April. The talented Clara Nipper of Sounds Good Studios will be narrating and producing the audiobook version for me. When I heard her audition, I got all warm and fuzzy inside. She just ‘got’ Chloe and Olivia. My inner voice cheered, and I messaged her right away to get the ball rolling. I am so excited about this new partnering venture! 

I decided to contract a narrator and producer this time around instead of tackling the project myself. In March 2015, I released The Muse on Audible. I worked hard on learning the secrets to narration and production for over two years, and figured out the Audible system requirements enough to pull it off. Overall I was pleased with the results, but I realized it took a lot of time away from my writing. So, in refocusing on my priorities, I decided my best use of time and energy is in writing books. I’ll leave the narration and production up to the pros! Just wait until you hear Clara’s soothing voice! 

Bees

Next bit of my excitement I want to share is that The Dance is available for pre-order now via Amazon. It is being released on February 16, 2016, and the pre-order price is at a discount until then. So, I’d love for you to go grab a pre-order spot and enjoy the savings. 

So, now that all the excitement has left me breathless, a lot of people have been asking me what I am doing in my downtime. Well, as I wait for my final edits from my editing team, I am taking a small writing hiatus. Not a break from the writing business end though! There’s lots of work to be done for the book launch. I will be working hard on getting this story the publicity it needs to be discovered by readers. It is a lot of work to get a book launched, and I plan to fully devote my time to that task. I welcome interviews and reviews, so if you are someone who loves to do just that, please get in touch with me. I’d love to have a chat!

Thank you for your support, always. It means the world to me!