Tag: skin care for moms

Common Signs of Aging and How to Fight Them

As we age, our bodies change in many ways and the signs of aging become more evident.  We may start to see wrinkles form on our skin or gray hairs appear. Our metabolism may slow down, and we may lose muscle mass. These changes are natural, but they can be frustrating.

When these changes occur, some people suffer emotionally as well as physically. It’s important to remember that aging is a natural process, and there are steps you can take to help yourself feel better about the way you look and feel.

Fortunately, there are things we can do to fight the signs of aging. This article will discuss some common signs of aging and what you can do to help reduce their effects.

Common Signs of Aging and How to Fight Them
*This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that we only recommend products that we love from companies that we trust. Furthermore, we are not medical professionals and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.

Wrinkles

Wrinkles are one of the most visible signs of aging, and they can be very frustrating. However, there are several things you can do to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

As we age, our bodies produce less and less collagen and elastin. This causes the skin to become thinner and less elastic. The result is wrinkled skin.

There are several things you can do to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. One is to use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This will help protect your skin from damage from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, contributing to wrinkles.

Another thing you can do is to use a retinoid cream or natural alternative. Retinoids are compounds that are derived from vitamin A. They help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Some cosmetic procedures can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles. These include laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels.

Age Spots

Age spots are another common sign of aging. They are dark patches on the skin caused by sun damage, exposure to chemicals, or other factors. The spots occur when the skin produces too much melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.

How can you fight age spots? Here are some tips:

      • Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to help protect your skin from UV rays. 
      • Use a retinoid cream to help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. You can also use an overnight serum for the face to help brighten your complexion. 
      • Try a chemical peel to help improve the appearance of age spots. 
      • Use microdermabrasion to help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of age spots. 
      • Some cosmetic procedures can help reduce the appearance of age spots. These include laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion and chemicals.

      6 Helpful Tips to Improve Your Skincare Routine

      Skin Dullness

      As we age, our skin can become dull and dry. This is because collagen and elastin production slows down, and the skin doesn’t retain moisture as well. Dull skin can make you look tired and can age you.

      You can do several things to help brighten your skin and give it a more youthful appearance. One is to use a retinoid cream. Retinoids are designed to stimulate collagen and elastin production, improving the appearance of the skin.

      Another thing you can do is to use a brightening serum for the face. This will help to exfoliate the skin and make it look brighter.

      Dry Skin

      Dry skin is another common problem as we age. The skin doesn’t retain moisture and can become irritated quickly. When your skin is dry, it can lead to wrinkles, age spots, and dullness.

      There are several things you can do to help moisturize your skin and reduce the appearance of dryness. One is to use a humidifier in your home, which will add moisture to the air and help to keep your skin hydrated.

      Another thing you can do is to use a hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid is a compound that helps the skin to retain moisture. It’s found naturally in the body, but it decreases as we age.

      You can also use a moisturizer containing shea butter, cocoa butter, or jojoba oil. These ingredients will help to nourish and moisturize your skin.

      Sagging Skin

      As we age, our skin loses elasticity and can start to sag. This can be especially noticeable in the face, neck, and hands. Sagging skin can make you look older and can be very frustrating.

      There are several things you can do to help tighten your skin and reduce the appearance of sagging. You can use retinoid cream. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which improves the appearance of your skin.

      Another thing you can do is to use a firming serum for the face. This will help tighten your skin and give it a more youthful appearance.

      Skincare Tips for Healthy Skin During Self Isolation

      The Bottom Line

      There are several common signs of aging, but there are also ways to help fight them. Use sunscreen, moisturize your skin, and use a retinoid cream to help improve the appearance of wrinkles. You can also try a chemical peel or microdermabrasion to help reduce the appearance of age spots. For sagging skin, use a firming serum to help tighten your skin. By following these tips, you can help keep your skin looking young and healthy.

How to Avoid Maskne: Skin Problems From Wearing Masks 

2020 brought us the pandemic, lockdowns, and maskne. The dreaded skin irritations and various types of rashes experienced by mask-wearers became so common that a new term was coined to describe them. 

With face coverings becoming the new normal, even people with perfect complexions started to notice that their skin was suffering. More than 18 months later, we’re all used to wearing masks. But many of us are still battling with the bad skin that comes with them.  

Fortunately, there are measures you can take to prevent and treat skin complaints connected to wearing a mask. We’ve delved a little deeper into what you can do to keep your skin healthy. 

How to Avoid Maskne: Skin Problems While Wearing a Mask
*This is a guest post and all opinions are those of the author. This post may also contain affiliate and/or paid links. Rest assured that we only work with companies and individuals that we trust. While some of those companies and individuals may work in the medical field, this post is not intended to be a substitution for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.

Check Whether You’re Allergic To Your Mask 

Disposable or single use masks are more likely to trigger an allergic reaction than their cloth counterparts. They might be convenient but are often treated with chemicals like formaldehyde, which are not healthy for your skin.  

Masks made of synthetic materials are also more likely to set off rashes, due to the constant friction against the dermis. For best results in terms of skincare, choose a mask in a fabric that is soft and non-allergenic, such as cotton, bamboo material, linen, or even silk.  

If you do have an allergy or sensitivity to certain materials, continuing to wear one of the same kinds won’t desensitize you, it will just make things worse.  

Keep Your Masks Clean 

This one is a no-brainer but can easily get overlooked in the hustle and bustle of a busy day.   Disposable masks aren’t meant to get washed—another good reason to stick with the material kind.  Facemasks can retain a lot of oils and residue, which can contribute to maskne as well.

When you’ve worn your mask for one day, you need to wash it, either in a machine or by hand, depending on the fabric type. Use the hottest water possible and make sure you rinse it out properly. Washing powder or softener residue can cause irritation too. 

6 Helpful Tips to Improve Your Skincare Routine
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Make Sure Your Mask Fits Correctly 

To be effective, a mask needs to fit your face quite snugly. That doesn’t mean you should have to hold your breath the entire day. But it’s important to avoid wide gaps between your skin and the borders of the mask.  

It shouldn’t put uncomfortable pressure on any part of your face, but be careful not to go too far in the opposite direction. A mask that is loose can cause chafing from rubbing up and down on your skin. If you can, go for a mask with adjustable straps. This can also help with pain and irritation behind your ears.  

Cleanse And Moisturize Daily – Before And After Wearing A Mask 

When you’re wearing a mask for 8 hours a day, your skin needs a care routine that is gentle and soothing. There is no practical purpose for wearing lipstick or other similar makeup under your mask, and skipping those cosmetics will allow your skin to breathe.  

Get into a routine of cleansing your face both before and after wearing your mask. Steer clear of heavily scented cleansers or soaps, and find a moisturizer that is light and hypoallergenic. It isn’t necessary to scrub your face, but it’s important that you clean it gently to soothe irritated skin, as well as to wash away the grime of the day.  

We might not be aware of it, but our skin constantly generates oil and sheds dead cells, which causes irritation if you don’t wash often enough.  

Protect Your Lips 

Dry lips are a common problem, even without the added factor of a close-fitting mask. Instead of lipstick, opt for something like petroleum jelly, which softens the skin and prevents painful cracks and bleeding. You can do this before you don your mask as well as when you remove it at the end of the day.  

If you apply petroleum jelly in the morning, you should only do so after you wash your face, as it can trap dirt underneath it.  

Take Mask Breaks (if its safe to do so) 

Wearing a mask is essential in many situations, but when you are by yourself or in your own home, taking it off will give your skin a welcome break. In certain professions, such as healthcare workers or other customer-facing roles, removing your mask is unfortunately much more difficult.  

When your job demands a mask throughout the day, try to take short breaks if and when you can. It’s recommended that you remove your mask and let your skin breathe for about 15 minutes every 4 hours.  

Winter Self Care
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Be Mindful Of What Skin Products You Use 

When your skin gets inflamed or irritated, some people experience the urge to attack the problem head-on with copious amounts of ointment, moisturizer or facemasks. If you are experiencing maskne or any kind of skin discomfort, a conservative approach is best. There are certain products more likely to irritate the skin even more, including those that contain salicylic acid, retinoid, and various kinds of aftershave.  

This is especially applicable to those who wouldn’t normally use a lot of skin care products. Applying a new chemical compound to your skin isn’t advisable when it’s already under strain.  

Keep Your Skin In Great Condition From The Inside 

Nutrition and hydration play a major role in skincare. Make sure that you eat healthy foods that support your skin health, rather than harm it. Fatty foods, refined sugars, fast food, and food that’s high in salt can all cause bad skin aside from maskne.  

If you’re concerned that you’re not getting enough nutrients or that your body isn’t actively benefiting from the food you eat, you can always consider a supplement. Vitamins, zinc, and NAD boosts your skin from the inside. Don’t forget to stay hydrated too, as dehydrated skin is dry and flaky, which makes it more susceptible to irritation.  

When In Doubt, Call A Doctor 

The vast majority of people wearing masks don’t suffer serious side effects. Some minor skin irritation, although annoying, isn’t an alarming sign if it remains under control. However, when rashes won’t go away or there is a sign of infection it might be time to seek medical advice. If raw skin gets infected there is a possibility of it becoming systemic, which often requires prescribed medication to heal properly.  

Say Goodbye to Maskne 

Life today is chaotic and the pandemic has made it even more so. While most things are beyond your control, avoiding the dreaded maskne is achievable if you spend a little time looking after your skin each day.  

Author Bio

Lara Garcia is a freelance writer covering variety of topics in the health & wellness, mindfulness space. When she’s not writing, you can find her volunteering at her local animal shelter or at the dog park with her two rescues, Boris & Bogart.

Skincare Tips for Healthy Skin During Self-Isolation

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, most of us were forced to quarantine at home, spending all our time in self-isolation. And even though these restrictions might have impacted our lives in quite unexpected ways, they also encouraged us to invest more effort in our immune system and overall health, including our skincare routines. Whether you would like to use this period of self-isolation as an opportunity to rejuvenate and revive your complexion, or you simply need a calming routine that will help to ease the built-up daily stress, here are some of the best skincare tips you should follow in quarantine.

Skincare Tips for Healthy Skin During Self Isolation
*This is a guest post and all opinions are those of the author. This post may also contain affiliate and/or paid links. Rest assured that we only work with companies and individuals that we trust. While some of those companies and individuals may work in the medical field, this post is not intended to be a substitution for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.

Keep your routine simple

The novel pandemic has encouraged many to simplify different aspects of their lifestyles, including their daily beauty regimens. Instead of elaborate 10-step routines and a heap of new products to try out, you can decide to give your skin a break during self-isolation as well, by only using the products that are truly necessary for your complexion. This often means using a gentle cleanser that will clean out your pores without being overly stripping, choosing a good chemical exfoliator to even out your skin tone, as well as hydrating with a moisturizer suited to your skin type.

Introduce specific treatments

Isolating yourself at home is also the perfect opportunity to devote some additional time and effort to treat any specific skin concerns you might have, in order to come out of the pandemic with a picture-perfect complexion. For instance, if you struggle with dryness, you might want to try hyaluronic acid for added hydration, while ingredients such as salicylic acid and retinol could be great for oily and acne-prone skin. If you truly want to pamper yourself, you could also include some beneficial serums into your routine, like niacinamide for an even texture or vitamin C for a brighter complexion.

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Invest in your beauty routine

While skincare is undoubtedly a form of self-care, there’s no better time for a calming and relaxing routine than during self-isolation. Now that you spend most of your time at home, try to turn your daily skincare regimen into a truly indulgent ritual that will not only help to nourish and revive your skin, but also serve as a perfect self-care moment to unwind after a long day. It would be a wonderful idea to invest in some luxury skin care products you can easily buy online, in an effort to nurture and replenish your complexion with the best the beauty market has to offer.

Don’t give up on sunscreen

One of the most important skincare tips is to use sunscreen regularly.  Just because you don’t spend as much time outdoors as you used to doesn’t mean you should immediately give up on applying sunscreen. In fact, harmful sun rays can easily penetrate window glass, leaving you more susceptible to sun damage, and it’s also been reported that the blue light emitted from phone and computer screens could have quite similar negative effects. For that reason, it would be advised to apply a thick layer of mineral-based sunscreen every day, in order to protect and preserve your skin, even if you don’t leave your home.

Body Pampering Treatments for Stressed Out Moms
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Wear less makeup every day

While giving your skin a break with fewer steps to your routine and more high-end products, it would also be wise to minimize the amount of makeup you wear every day, and even opt out of applying it at all if it’s not necessary. Excessive makeup can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, while the harsher cleansers we use for removing it can be too stripping for our skin, often causing dryness and flakiness. To that end, consider using this quarantine period as the ideal opportunity to ease off makeup, and allow your skin to finally breathe.

Nourish your skin from within

Unfortunately, spending all our time at home might cause us to develop some unhealthy habits, such as sitting all day or snacking on processed foods high in sugar and salt. This lifestyle could easily reflect on our skin, leading to issues like acne and inflammation, among others.

So, if you truly want to achieve optimal skin health, one of the best skincare tips is to “feed it” from within. This doesn’t only mean eating a healthy and balanced diet filled with vitamins, minerals, protein, and whole grains, but also investing in a moderate at-home workout routine at least three times a week, for a flawless complexion.

Warning Signs Your Body is Screaming for a Detox
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Evidently, the period of self-isolation is the perfect time to invest in your skincare routine.  Use these incredible skincare tips mentioned above in order to achieve a wonderful, glowing complexion. While we do live in a particularly demanding time, at least we can find some solace in knowing that our skin is as healthy and beautiful as ever.

Author Bio

Sophia Smith is a beauty and lifestyle blogger, graphic designer and food enthusiast. She is very passionate about eco-friendly and green topics, sustainable fashion, eco beauty, and conscious business. Sophia’s other hobbies center around her love for yoga, wellness rituals and living in balance with nature. She loves sharing meaningful content that inspires people and has covered topics ranging from organic beauty products and sustainability to self-care and mental health.

Sophia has contributed to a number of publications including Eco Warrior Princess, Naughty Nutrition, Herbs Mother Earth Living, Sivana Spirit, Urban Naturale, Carousel, and Cause Artist.

You can find out more about her writing by following her on Twitter  @sophia_bri

7 Days of Self Care: How to Feel Better in a Week

It can be simple to incorporate self care each day of the week, as long as you have a plan.

As a parent, the days are long and filled with taking care of the needs of everyone else but ourselves.  We hear all this talk about self care but it sounds overwhelming, time consuming and impossible.  It’s easy to start but hard to keep it up.  

So try to set a simple self care goal each day of the week.  Here’s a sample plan for self care that will help you take care of your body’s physical and mental needs, without requiring a lot of commitment.

Try these 7 days of self care this week, plus download a printable tracker so that you can keep up with it!
7 Days of Self Care
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust. Furthermore, I am not a medical professional and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. I am simply a mother who has been there and lived to tell the tale.
7 Days of Self Care

Monday: Move Your Body

No one likes Mondays.  The weekend is over, everyone is groggy and the boring, mundane tasks begin all over again.  You’re going to need to pump up your energy levels in order to make it through the rest of the week.  Coffee can only do so much.

So today, make an effort to move your body in some way.

Clear a spot on the living room floor and do some simple stretches.  Yoga is an excellent way to move your body, and there are so many different benefits of yoga! Dance to at least one entire song.  Plank for 30 seconds.  Do some crunches or lunges or jumping jacks.  Go for a walk around the block or ride your bike.  

It doesn’t have to be a full workout, just move your body!  Exercise is a great form of self care and will boost your mood for the rest of the day, if not the week.  

amazing benefits of yoga for postpartum depression
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Tuesday: Take an Epic Shower

You’ll probably need to shower several times throughout the week and if you’re a busy mom like me then they’re probably really quick and you’re listening for a kid the entire time.  But hey, that’s motherhood, what can you do?

Reserve some time today to take one, epic, glorious shower.

Pick a time when someone else is watching the kids (TV shows and iPads count) even if it means you need to get up a little earlier or go to bed a little later.  Crank up the hot water and USE ALL THE PRODUCTS!  Mask your face, deep condition your hair, exfoliate, moisturize and shave your entire leg and not just the bottom 1/4 that shows when you’re not wearing socks.

The rest of the week may go by in a blur and you won’t have this chance again, so make it count.  A hot shower and some pampering can do wonders for your mood, mental health and skin! 

How to Reset When You're Feeling Over touched
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Wednesday: Clean out ONE closet

…or drawer, or cupboard or room.  But be careful not to get carried away with this one.  I don’t know about you but I have several closets and drawers filled with all kinds of junk.  And I know that moving junk from one closet means I’ll throw it into another closet full of junk and then feel obligated to clean that one out too.

You only get to do ONE.

Next week, you can tackle on another one.  Start small, like that junk drawer in the kitchen or the cupboard underneath your bathroom sink.  You can make a list of all the areas you want to tackle and scratch one off each week.

You might not think of this one as self care but I promise you will find mental clarity and a sense of peace once it’s done.  These areas are always at the back of our minds, and the longer we procrastinate them, the more unproductive and lazy we feel.  This sense of unaccomplishment can affect our self image and confidence.  It’s amazing how proud we can feel just by cleaning out ONE closet.  

Thursday: Get Creative

Tapping into your inner creativity is a great way to boost your mood and help keep your mind sharp.  If you don’t think of yourself as a creative person, then maybe you just haven’t found your strength yet.  Creativity comes in so many different forms.

Today, use your skills to create something.

You can do some type of craft, paint, color or draw a picture.  Try starting a longer term project like a paint by numbers kit. Make something out of salt-dough or paper.  Knit, sew, crochet or string some beads into jewelry.  Bake something delicious or try a new recipe. 

Kids love to be involved in these kinds of activities, but moms are often busy cleaning up spills and helping with supplies.  This time, make sure that you sit down, embrace the mess and get your hands dirty.  Week after week, you’ll find that your skills will improve, and your mind will be beaming with possibilities.

Art Therapy
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Friday: Socialize

Fridays aren’t the same as they used to be before kids.  Friday nights were something to look forward to, and we’d be checking in with all our friends to find out where the party was at.  They’re not nearly as exciting anymore but that doesn’t mean we have to stop socializing.

Make it a point to socialize with a friend in some way today.

Get dressed up, do your hair and makeup and head out for a girl’s night, or date night.  Invite a fellow mom over for a play date, or have a sweat pants and taco night in with your bestie.  If that all sounds too exhausting then just call up a friend and chat.  You can still socialize without having to leave the house if you need to. 

Our social connection needs to be expanded beyond Facebook and Instagram.  Our mental health suffers when we keep ourselves locked away from the outside world.  We need to see other people and have real, human connections.  It’s good for our mood to hear another person’s voice and feel their touch.  Laughing with friends is like group self-care! 

100 Self Care Ideas that are Social Distancing Approved
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Saturday: Go Outdoors

Finally the weekend is here!  What better day than a Saturday afternoon to spend some time outdoors?  Weekends tend to be busy for young families, but that doesn’t mean you can’t fit in some fresh air time.

At some point today, do an outdoor activity.

This could be as simple as sipping your morning coffee on the patio.  Or you could plan this day in advance and head out on a camping trip or hike.  Be spontaneous and take the kids for a picnic at the park.  Yard work and gardening are great ways to be productive outdoors.  Even if the weather is cold, bundle yourself up and spend at least 10 – 15 minutes outdoors in the fresh air.  

Being outdoors is considered ecotherapy and it has amazing mood boosting benefits for everyone.  There are even several health benefits of being outdoors.  You should try to spend some time outside every single day.  And we’re talking about self care, so relax while you’re out there.  Don’t feel obligated to do something strenuous or physical.  Napping outdoors is amazing, just make sure you’re in the shade. 

25 Easy Outdoor Self Care Ideas
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Sunday: Sleep

At the end of a long and busy week (or beginning of one, depending on how you look at it) there is one thing that is essential to mental health and self care.  You need to get some proper sleep.  Sleep deprivation is one of the most dangerous factors when it comes to mental health, so don’t ever underestimate it.

Make sure to get in some extra sleep today.

You can sleep in, take an afternoon nap or go to bed early.  Try your best to work your sleep schedule around whatever else you have going on today, but make it a priority.  If you’re struggling with insomnia, there are things you can do to help you sleep better.  Use a weighted blanket or try diffusing some essential oils while you sleep.

You’re going to need to keep your strength up to get through another week of motherhood and if you’re running on fumes, you won’t do any good.  Sleep is so incredibly important for maintaining our mental health, especially for moms suffering from postpartum depression or anxiety.  Sleeping in is not a luxury or reserved only for Mother’s Day – it’s a necessity!

Self Care Tracker
Click here to download a free printable PDF version of this self care tracker!

12 Mother’s Day Gifts That Will Encourage Self Care

Mother’s Day is a holiday where we recognize moms for all the amazing things they do for others. 

Mother’s day makes us think about all the diapers changed, meals cooked, loads of laundry washed, books read and baths given and wonder how a mom finds time to do it all in one day.  And it becomes very clear that she’s given something up in order to achieve that.  That “something” is usually self care. 

Self care is so important, but in the struggle to reach perfect mom status, we spend more energy than we have.  This leads to mental health issues, stress, anxiety, rage, insomnia and even physical pain.  In other words, it IS a big deal.  And there’s no better occasion than Mother’s Day to focus on mom’s needs for a change.

This year, consider these Mother’s Day gift ideas for the mom in your life who might need a little extra help getting in that self care time.
Mother's Day Gifts That Will Encourage Self Care
*This is a sponsored post, meaning that I received compensation in order to promote some of these products, and it may contain affiliate links. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust.
Mother's Day Gifts That Will Encourage Self Care

Self care is so important for hardworking moms.  And it’s not uncommon if she has neglected herself in order to take care of the needs of her family instead.  Check out some of these self care inspired gifts to remind her that she is loved and recognized for her hard work. 

Nectar Mattress
The Nectar Mattress

Sleep is one of the best gifts you can give to a mother.  Let her sleep in, let her stay in bed all day binge watching Netflix and get up with the kids in the middle of the night if need be.  If you really want to prove how important her sleep is to you, invest in a brand new mattress.  This one from Nectar comes with a forever guarantee plus a 365 day free trial so you can’t go wrong.

BlanQuil Weighted Blanket
BlanQuil by Nectar

If an entire new mattress is not an option, at least splurge on a luxurious weighted blanket.  Using a weighted blanket has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, stress and insomnia.  The deep pressure touch therapy will also help over touched moms find relaxation at the end of the day. 

Shine The Light On Clothing
Shine The Light On

The modern, casual clothing line from Shine The Light On is perfect for lounging around the house, but also great for running errands, doing school pick ups or watching soccer practice.  Bonus points for helping to spread mental health awareness! Use coupon code RUNINTRIANGLES15 for 15% off your purchase!

Essential Oil Diffuser Kit
Rocky Mountain Oils

Aromatherapy is an easy way for moms to experience healing benefits.  Use a diffuser in the bedroom to induce better sleep, the office to encourage productivity, or the living room where she can go about her day and let the essential oils work their magic.  And an aromatherapy diffuser that comes with a set of the most popular essential oils makes gift giving super simple.

Cowin Noise Cancelling Headphones
Amazon.com

One of the best (and only) ways for a mom to relax in a house full of children is by with some noise canceling headphones.  A wireless, Bluetooth version will ensure she can go anywhere in peace and quiet.  Make sure to create a playlist for her on Spotify and let her escape to a world away from snack making and diaper changing.

Thermea by Nordik Spa-Nature
Read more about thermotherapy here

I will promote a spa day for every single holiday, but a spa visit might not be an option this year.  A Spa Finder gift card  is always available and can be used at so many locations that when quarantine is over, she can have her pick. 

Amazon.com

Skin care is often neglected by moms due to the cost and time associated with it.  So skin care gifts can mean a lot to a mom in need of some pampering.  If you’re not sure where to begin looking, then consider products that are popular and trendy such as this Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum that has over 3,000 positive reviews on Amazon.  Or, the ever popular Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. If you’re looking for something organic, try the TOHI Skin Care Line from Rocky Mountain Oils.

HoMedics

She’s on her feet all day long so a foot massage is an awesome Mother’s Day gift idea.   Not only does it encourage her to sit still for a little while, but it works out all the tension she’s been holding onto.  This shiatsu food massager from HoMedics has various different controls plus heat! 

One Line A Day Memory Book
Indigo.ca

Journaling can also be a great outlet for creativity.  Bullet journals are all the rage right now and combine writing with art for a wholesome experience.  A One Line A Day journal can help a busy mom keep track of her moods, memories and document exciting changes as the kids grow.  It’s a great gift that would be easy to incorporate into any mom’s lifestyle. 

Mama Bear Necklace Mother's Day Gift
Sincerely Silver

A main reason why moms neglect self care is because they feel guilty.  So this Mother’s Day, make sure that she feels proud to take care of herself.  Get her this mama bear necklace to remind her that she is like the mama bear, who stays strong in order to take care of her babies.  And that taking care of herself is one of the best ways she can take care of her family. 

Mother's Day Contest Featuring Sincerely Silver Mother's Day Contest Featuring Sincerely Silver

7 Ways Moms Can Look and Feel Good This Spring

Putting effort into our outward appearance is not a sign of vanity.  It has a significant impact on how we feel inside.

Being happy means aiming to both look and feel good, but it’s not always easy to do.  For mothers, how we look is not always representative of how we feel (and other times it is all too accurate).  

We may feel young and sexy and full of life but we look tired, worn out and as though we’ve given up on ourselves.  Or alternatively, we may feel like we’re dying on the inside, so we overcompensate by layering on makeup to give the appearance that “everything is fine.”

This spring, as the weather begins to warm up, we should challenge ourselves to match how we look with how we feel.
7 Ways Moms Can Look and Feel Good This Spring
*This is a sponsored post and contains affiliate links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust. Furthermore, I am not a medical professional and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. I am simply a mother who has been there and lived to tell the tale.
7 Ways Moms Can Look and Feel Good This Spring 7 Ways Moms Can Look and Feel Good This Spring

Start From The Inside

How we look on the outside all begins with how we feel on the inside. Self esteem comes from within and if we are happy with who we are, it shows in a physical way.  If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or substance overuse, then the first place to start is therapy. 

Working with a therapist, either in person or online, can help you manage everything that is creating self-doubt or a poor self image.  Online therapy in particular, is extremely convenient, especially for moms. 

Schedule your online or video therapy sessions over the winter, ensuring that you get the most out of spring and summer.

Shine The Light On Clothing | My Dog is My Therapist
Shine The Light On – The Leah

Focus on Health

Weight issues are some of the most common hurdles to looking and feeling good.  As mothers, we’ve stretched and shrunk, been cut open, torn apart and pieced back together.  Our bodies have changed in so many ways and it can be difficult to accept it as it is now.

One way to look and feel good is to forget about the extra skin on our stomachs or how much we weigh and just focus on being healthy.  Exercising to stay healthy is different than exercising to lose weight or tone muscle.  Don’t worry about counting calories or inches, just try to eat healthier food and incorporate vitamins and nutritional supplements to avoid deficiencies.

If our main focus is on being “healthy” rather than being “fit” there is less pressure on us to meet certain goals and we can learn to love our bodies again.

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Find Strength

In addition to being healthy, we also need to feel strong.  Strength comes in many different forms.  We can train ourselves to be physically strong by joining a gym, lifting weights, swimming, or playing a sport.  It’s important to find emotional and mental strength, as well.  Try meditation, journaling, art or aromatherapy. 

Being strong, both physically and mentally will inspire confidence and a sense of pride in ourselves.

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Make a Statement

Be Kind Necklace by Sincerely Silver
Be Kind Necklace by Sincerely Silver

Your outward appearance tells the world about you, so what is it you want to say? Make a statement with your appearance by choosing clothing and accessories that speak to you.  This “Be Kind” Necklace is a simple and elegant way to remind yourself and others of the power of kindness (get 15% off with code FRIENDS15).

Clothing lines like Shine The Light On create pieces that help raise awareness about mental health.  Modern, minimalist messages imprinted on soft, luxurious fabrics make it simple to spread messages of hope and acceptance wherever you go.

In addition to looking good while making a statement, a portion of the proceeds from the Shine The Light On collection goes towards mental health initiatives – so you can also feel good knowing that you are helping to end the stigma of mental illness.

Click here to see the stunning clothing line from Shine The Light On and get 15% off with coupon code RUNINTRIANGLES15

Shine The Light On - Be You.Bravely
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Make A Mental Health Fashion Statement with Shine the Light On

Take Care of Your Skin

You don’t need to do your hair and makeup to look and feel good this spring, but you should always take care of your skin.  Glowing, healthy skin looks good from the outside and can make a person feel good on the inside. 

As mothers, when we feel over-cuddled and overstimulated after a long day, it’s our skin and sense of touch that suffers.  This is why caring for our skin plays such an important role in how we look and feel.  Plus, the act of massaging lotion onto our skin can stimulate our lymphatic system and help keep our bodies healthy from the inside.

So splurge on a good, all natural skin care line to make sure that you’re not coating your skin in chemicals.  Soak in a bath filled with Epsom salts to help soften and relax your muscles.  Use sunscreen all year round, especially when you plan to spend longer amounts of time outdoors.

And make sure that you schedule yourself enough time each day to perform your daily skin care routine.

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Change is Good

Try a new look this spring. Cut or color your hair, try out a new clothing style or color that you would never normally wear.  Get a piercing or tattoo, eyelash extensions, permanent makeup or micro-bladed eyebrows.  You don’t need to go so far as getting plastic surgery, but if there are specific problem areas that have always bothered you, then consider booking an appointment with a doctor or dermatologist to discuss your options.

Don’t be afraid of change, though it might take some time to get used to.  Only make changes that are truly something you want to do, and never in an effort to please anyone else or be someone other than yourself.   Changing something about your outward appearance can make you feel mysterious, spontaneous and empowered. 

Deciding to change something about your appearance should remind you that you are in control of your body and what happens to it.

Comfortable Is Beautiful

“The mom look” is normally one associated with comfort and function.  But comfortable can also be beautiful so don’t feel like you need to trade one for the other.  It is entirely possible to look good and feel comfortable at the same time, as long as you choose the right pieces.

If you feel uncomfortable in your clothing, whether it’s shoes that pinch or a waistband that’s too tight, you will act uncomfortably.  So just bite the bullet and get rid of anything that you hate wearing, no matter how expensive or “designer” it might be.

Being comfortable in your own skin is the best way to show the world your confidence and beauty.

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