Transform your body; even during winter months

I don’t know about you, but when it is winter, I want to jump straight into bed after a warm bath!  However, I try not to skimp on giving my skin some extra TLC, although it might be done less than usual!  Regardless of the season, our skins need to be taken care of, from the inside as well as on the outside.  Summer can be brutal; especially if we are outdoors in the sun a lot and winter’s cold winds can be just as brutal.  So let us look at a few things that we can do, regardless of the weather outside, to keep our skins glowing and transform our bodies.

Going for a lymph drainage massage:  nothing beats a good massage and, when it is one that focuses on the lymphatic system, even better.  The lymphatic system is the body’s “waste basket” and, although it has valves like the heart, it doesn’t pump.  If you don’t exercise or do Rebounding, then the lymphatic system can become clogged and toxins can be trapped inside the body.  A lymph massage is another, relaxing and invigorating way, to boost your lymph and to help the body to get rid of the toxins / waste inside.  Just make sure to drink plenty of water afterwards, as water is needed to help flush out the waste.

Sitting, standing and walking tall:  there is nothing more eye-catching than someone who is sitting, standing and walking tall.  Slouching is the worst possible position to be in, as this not only puts unnecessary strain and pressure on your vertebrae, the lumbar spine-area, hips and knees, but it also restricts breathing properly.  The best thing to do, before you move, is to roll your shoulders back, tuck your tummy in and don’t push your buttocks out.  Be careful, always, not to push the head and neck-area too far forward, as this will cause a curvature of the upper body and pull your spine out of alignment.  The Alexander Technique is a wonderful method to follow.  When you stand in front of a mirror, look at yourself, sideways, and imagine that you can draw a straight line from the middle of your ear, right down to your foot.  Another tip is to imagine a string gently pulling your head up towards the sky.

Keeping our feet soft:  whether you are wearing socks / slippers during winter months, or going barefoot / in sandals when it is summer, your heels can dry out.  A great way to take care of dry, cracked heels, is to use a pumice stone or electric buffer.  Exfoliating your feet (just like your body), is another great way to get rid of dead skin cells.  Soaking your feet in warm water, with added almond / coconut oil, will soften the dry areas and make exfoliation easier.  Always remember to put lotion / cream on afterwards and, if possible, put some moisturizing socks on (cotton socks) afterwards.  The socks will lock in the moisturizer – you can sleep with it or, if that is not comfortable, keep it on for at least 20 minutes, before taking it off.

Body brushing:  body brushing is a wonderful way to not only get your lymphatic system going, but it also gets rid of dead skin cells, gets rid of cellulite, makes your skin glow and come alive.  Do make sure to use a brush with natural bristles; take care if using a loofah as this can be hard on sensitive areas.  Always start with your right side, brushing up towards your heart, then down on the left side.

Exfoliating the whole body:  using a body scrub 2 – 3 times a week is another easy way to get rid of dead skin cells, whilst you take a bath / shower.  Be careful not to exfoliate more than 3 times a week, as you don’t want to rid your body of its natural oils (which act as a barrier against the elements).

Sunlight:  we all know that too much sunlight on our skins can be harmful and can speed up the ageing process of our skin.  Sunlight is very important for absorption of vitamin D (an important vitamin that is needed for a strong immune system and to keep depression at bay).  However, in some parts of the world sunlight is not always there, so do make sure to add vitamin D to your shopping bag. 

Fake tan:  it is not always possible to be out in the sun; especially if you live in a country that doesn’t get a lot of / any sunlight during winter.  Do not despair, because there are (as you know), many brands on the market today that you can use to transform your light skin.  Using a self-tanning lotion is great for people who do not like to tan, or who burn easily.  Just make sure to choose the right brand, especially if you have sensitive skin; and exfoliate around your ankles, elbows and knees before you put it on, to avoid patches.

Whether it is almost summertime, or wintertime, enjoy every moment and take care of yourself; both on the outside, as well as the inside!