Can’t seem to catch a break? You’re not the only one. With our busy, fast-paced lifestyles we all experience stress, which in turn impacts us on a physical and emotional level. A study which measured cortisol and its effects on perceived age revealed a high stress lifestyle makes you look up to three and a half years older - something no one wants.
As the link between wellness and beauty becomes ever present, it’s time to shake those unhealthy habits and implement self-care to have you feeling calm in no time.
Dr. Howard Murad, an expert on skin ageing, has revealed his tips for reducing stress.
Unplug from digital devices
A digital detox is necessary from time to time in order to reduce stress and anxiety. Instead of going cold turkey, establish a set amount of time each day to unplug from digital devices. Stepping away from your screen will do wonders for your nervous system. Dr. Murad says: “Get outside more to enjoy the calming effects that only nature can provide.”
Scrolling on Instagram for an hour before bed will be doing nothing to set you up for a good sleep, a vital step to make in order to reduce stress. “Create a bedtime routine that prepares you for sleep thirty minutes prior to lights out,” he says.
Plan ahead
Get your to-do lists at the ready – good organisation will make the difference between feeling stressed and feeling on top of things. “Plan your days better so you’re not as harried.”
Re-evaluating certain aspects of your life will help you make the change you need. “Pick just a single habit you want to change and commit to making that happen,” he adds.
Treat yo’ self
Stress is a (good) excuse to indulge in a beauty treatment or two. Dr. Murad suggests making it a goal to treat yourself once a month (or as often as feasible) to a massage or another therapeutic treatment of your choice.
Treatments to try: Murad Method Facial at Caci, Full Body Relaxing Massage at About Face, Hot Stone Massage at Elizabeth Arden Skincare Boutique
Breathe
Taking a few deep breaths actually decreases heart rate, blood pressure, rate of breathing and muscle tension. He says when problems come up and your mind starts to race, take a break to focus on deep breathing.
“Focusing on our problems can cause them to easily swell into unmanageable portion sizes for our consciousness and bring us down. They then get out of control and look worse than they really are.”
Try these products to help reduce stress: Murad Revitalixir™ Recovery Serum, Lush Sleepy Body Lotion, Dermalogica Stress Positive Eye Lift, Designer Brands Jade Facial Roller, Swisse Ultiboost Stress Support, Absolute Essential Stress Less (Organic).
