Image via Byrdie
Hey ladies, not sure if this has ever happened to you, but Ash and I have been nursing a cold/flu for an entire month and can't seem to shake it. Both of us are definitely on the upswing, but having been ill and not ourselves for around 30 days, we wanted to create some reminders and some helpful tips for you ladies out there who want to stay healthy and happy. Winter months can really be tough on the body and the mind, so let's pull together and battle these illnesses together so we can be productive at work and enjoy our down time/social life. If you're with us, check out our tips on how to stay healthy and feeling great. Remember, your mental state plays a big part as well, so make sure you find some inner peace and tranquility whenever you can.
Image via Tone It Up
Exercise
Whether you're going for a stroll around the block, practicing yoga or taking part in your go-to workout class, any movement or activity will improve your health. A good tip, try to get your exercise in during the morning hours. If you leave it until after work, you're more likely to put comfortable pajamas on, and veg out on the couch. Make it happen when you first wake up and give yourself the energy you deserve to keep up in this fast paced world. Also, when you work out earlier, your body burns more fat because your metabolism has been sparked, therefore working all day long. Early bird always gets the worm. Set that alarm clock and get after it.
Image via They All Hate Us
Sweet Dreams
You may read this over and over again, but for good reason. You're health will take a nasty turn for the worst if you don't get enough shut eye. I know pulling all nighters, staying for that extra gin & tonic and Netflix binges seem really fun and care free in the moment, but that's exactly what it is, care free. If you don't allow your body to rest and recharge for at least eight hours a night, you're doing yourself a disservice. Did you know that when you get more more sleep you burn more fat? If you're sleep deprived and exercising, you actually lose muscle mass which is not what you want. When you sleep less, you also feel hungrier throughout the day and are way more likely to binge on junk food. Having trouble settling in at a decent hour? Turn off your phone and all electronics, grab a book and hop into bed. Mixing in some chamomile tea and warm socks will also help you drift into a solid slumber.
Image via Cooking Light
Clean Eating
A well balanced diet is crucial when it comes to your health. Your body needs fuel and it needs it often. I have recently introduced six SMALL meals a day into my life and I'm feeling way more energized. I load up on fruits and veggies, always choose whole grains, leaner meats and protein, healthier fats and lots of water! Hydrating your body flushes out all those unwanted toxins and helps your digestive system in a BIG way! Another significant adjustment I recently made, was eliminating take-out. It's hard to really indicate what's in the food at certain restaurants, so it's best just to skip it all together. Making your own meals can be quite the stress reliever as well. Knowing that you're cooking up a nutritious, well-balanced meal will put your mind at ease. It won't be racing with guilt like when you hit up the drive-thru for a burger and fries. Eating fast food may be satisfying ias it's going down, but it does more long-term damage to your body and mind than you know. So choose wisely when it comes to that cheat day! :)
Image via Laurenconrad.com
Pamper Yourself
In this fast world we live in, de-stressing any way you can is beneficial. Have you been eyeing a certain jacket or blouse? Are you dying to add a piece of furniture to your home? How about a spa day? I say go for it! You work hard for your money, and if you pay those bills on time and stash a bit away for a rainy day, you're allowed to treat yourself. If you're really adament about saving money and want to do something special, try an at home manicure and pedicure after a long bubble bath. You'll feel relaxed, refreshed and pampered. All great for the mind and body. You can also grab a buddy and plan a picnic or play some board games, spend time with people that make you laugh and never feel stressed or anxious. After all, laughter is the best medicine.
Image via Saje Wellness
Wellness
For Christmas, my dad got me a diffuser from Saje and I absolutely cannot live without it. This little beauty produces relaxing aromas that heighten your well-being and allow you to breathe easier in your sleep space. It also serves as a humidifier so it helps moisturize my super dry condo. I stocked up on essential oils because they have very therapeutic properties that better your physical, mental and emotional states. Recently, I scooped up this Pocket Farmacy Wallet and have used it everyday since. It comes with five of their most supportive remedies. I apply Peppermint to my nose and the back of my neck each morning and night. It's soothing and helps me to relax and breathe better. Another great remedy is Oil of Oregano. It's an antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, digestive and anti-allergenic substance. You need this health benefit, like yesterday.
Image via Yoga Time
What do you think of our tips/advice for health & wellness? Comment on our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages or below. We'd love to hear your feedback! Hope everyone has a healthy, fun-filled weekend. Cheers!
Kayla
Fashiontruck team xoxo