How To De-Stress For Better Hair
July 24th is International Self-Care Day! This symbolic day serves as a reminder that self-care is not a one-time event, but a continuous and timeless journey that we can incorporate into our lives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In the midst of our busy lives, it is easy to neglect our own well-being. However, intentionally setting aside "me time" and embracing mindful moments can unlock a treasure trove of benefits. Stress begins to loosen its grip, and our overall health improves as we prioritize self-care.
Investing in ourselves helps us become better versions of who we are. By showing up for ourselves, we can show up more fully and authentically for the people around us. After all, how can we offer our best selves to others if we don't first care for ourselves?
Need another reason to prioritize self-care? It's good for your hair! Stress can affect not only our health and skin but also our hair. Whether the stress is acute or chronic, it triggers excess cortisol levels, which can result in hair loss and shedding. That's why it's important to find ways to manage stress and keep cortisol levels in check.
that will bring some positivity to you and your hair!
RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
Even if you aren’t a master yogi or meditator, you can look up simple breathing practices that you can refer to in times of need. It seems like the most obvious thing, but a lot of our pain lies in our breathing, and in the trying times, we hold a lot of that pain in.
There are many free apps for guided meditation. Just press "play" and listen to be more calm and mindful.
Many of us haven’t practiced journaling since middle school, but sometimes writing our thoughts down is easier than speaking them. You can keep a journal by your bed to make a habit of writing down whatever is on your mind before going to sleep or whenever you feel the need for a release. You can also find smaller journals to bring with you on the go for whenever you have free time. When in doubt - write it out!
EATING RIGHT & EXERCISING
You don’t need an expensive gym membership to accomplish this one! Moving around helps release endorphins so just taking a long walk can be a great way to detoxify. Try to leave your phone at home (or in airplane mode) and just unplug. Opting for the stairs instead of elevators/escalators whenever possible is a quick and easy swap that pays off, and tracking your steps with a bracelet or your phone (set to “do not disturb” mode when feasible) can be a great motivator and provides a sense of instant gratification to reward your good choices!
Similarly, try not to rely on simple sugars or carbs for quick bursts of energy, but instead, indulge in healthier, more nutritious options that will give you longer lasting strength and won’t lead to mood swings or crashes a few hours later.
> Read this blog post to find inspiration for your next meal and discover The Best Foods For Healthy Hair
SPEND TIME IN NATURE
Spending time in nature can serve as an antidote for stress, whether it's strolling through a park, basking in the sun, or watching the clouds gracefully float across the sky. Studies show that it can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood (White 2019; Robbins 2020). You don't need to have a grand activity planned to walk away feeling refreshed, re-inspired, and grounded.
ESTABLISHING A SELF-CARE RITUAL
Whether it’s your favorite workout class, curling up with your pet and a great book, taking a luxurious bubble bath while donning a sheet mask, or indulging in whatever your ritual of choice is - self-care is an amazing gift that we ALL owe to ourselves at least once a week.
May we suggest incorporating our UltraRepair Reconstructing Masque as a multitasker that can easily be added to your relaxation routine. This intensive treatment is reparative for hair that has been compromised by color or bleach processing, heat styling, or environmental factors - especially wind and winter weather or the sun and salt/pool water. It’s highly effective for smoothing coarse, curly, or frizz-prone hair and protecting it from breakage, dehydration, tangles, and split ends. We call it a “time-traveler” because this clean beauty favorite results in bouncy, shiny, silky, and strong hair, no matter its previous condition!
As we celebrate Self-Care Day, let it serve as a gentle reminder that self-care is a continuous journey of love and nourishment for ourselves. So take a moment today to pamper yourself and embrace the positive impact it can bring to your life - physically, mentally, and emotionally. We're cheering you on, EVOLVhers!
