2020 has really taken a toll on us all, and the importance of taking care of our mental health is more imperative than ever. The Australia Institute of Health and Welfare’s 2020 Health report reported that one in five Australians experienced mental health issues between 2017-2018, and this figure is expected to increase due to the stress of the bushfires and COVID-19.
In uncertain times, turning to beauty treatments for self care has become increasingly popular and is proven to be an effective way to reduce anxiety and depression.
If you are struggling right now and could use some at home beauty therapy, here are my top 6 beauty inspired wellness tips to help soothe the soul.
1. Facial Masks
A facial mask is always a go to home beauty regime. Not only do they unlock pores and moisturise our skin, they are the perfect relaxation and unwind beauty treatment that can be done anytime.If you’re looking for some easy, all natural DIY masks, you can find some here. If DIY isn’t for you, Garnier’s new range of SkinActive sheet masks are both affordable and have something for all skin types, which can be found here.
2. DIY Mani Pedis
Source: https://www.prairiebeautylove.ca/2020/02/review-opi-mexico-city-collection.html
There is nothing more relaxing than a DIY mani-pedi. You don’t need to go and buy a hundred different colours or any of the expensive tools to give yourself nails that you will love. However, if you are looking for a new range of colours, OPI’s new Mexico City collection has a wide range of vibrant colours that will suit anyone, which you can find here. Taking the time to sit and focus solely on painting your nails is not only calming, but by concentrating solely on the task you’ll begin to notice ease in negative and stressful thinking.
3. Going for a 30 min walk outside.
Exercise is a must for anyone who is experiencing prolonged stress and anxiety, and studies have shown that exercising outside reduces stress and can have restorative mental health benefits. Whilst Covid-19 may have restricted ways we can work out, a 30 minute walk in the fresh air is proven to be highly effective at easing anxiety and depressive moods. Whether you want to listen to music or a podcast, or just enjoy the sounds of nature as you walk, by getting out in the fresh air you’ll see why walking is proven to be critical for self care.
4. Experiment with new makeup looks.
Now is the time to experiment with all the makeup looks you have wanted to try but haven’t had the chance. Always wanted to experiment with your blue eye shadow pallet? Want to learn how to get the perfect eyeliner wings? By practising new styles, you may discover a whole new look that makes you feel confident. Using and experimenting with makeup also reportedly has positive cognitive effects on the brain, particularly at fighting negative thought patterns. If you’re looking to experiment with new eyeshadow colours, the Morphe X James Charles Palate has a wide range of bold colours well suited for trying new colours, which you can find for sale here.
5. Maintain your daily beauty routine (even if you feel stressed out by it).
There is nothing more important than maintaining a daily beauty routine, especially when experiencing a particularly stressful time. Sometimes, the best form of self care is keeping up with the regime you do every day, to keep a sense of stability. Whether your routine takes 5 minutes or 45 minutes, by maintaining it, you will find that even in uncertain times, your daily regime will always be there.
6. Adult Colouring Books
Adult colouring books have become a popular way for many people to unwind during stressful times. Studies have shown that colouring allows our minds to switch off and promotes mindfulness, reducing stress and anxiety and relieving other issues associated with mental health. If you are looking for some creative and fun colouring books to get you started, please see click here to find one that’s right for you.
If you are feeling concerned for your mental health, please reach out and visit Beyond Blue or call Lifeline.
