4 Mindful Habits For Mindful Skin

We’ve been through the wringer lately, haven’t we? Hopefully, you’ve focused on self-care because mindful habits that focus on taking time for yourself are one of the absolute best opportunities for alleviating stress.

mind·ful·ness

/ˈmīn(d)f(ə)lnəs/

noun

the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.

a mental state achieved by focusing one's awareness on the present moment while calmly acknowledging and accepting one's feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations, used as a therapeutic technique.

Practicing mindfulness is practicing calmness. Taking the time to think and care deeply about what you’re doing at any given moment is an easy form of meditation. It’s a way of taking stock and creating a sense of balance by being fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not feeling reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us (either immediately in our presence or just generically as in ‘the world’).

So, what better time to practice mindfulness and focus on self-care than during your skincare routine?

Seriously, have you ever cleansed your skin with natural, organic ingredients and put thought into how washing away the makeup, dirt, and grime of the day makes you feel? Or how a swipe of toner can feel like the ultimate “disinfectant” for wiping away the stress of the day? Oh, and moisturizer... I mean, what’s more nourishing for the soul than the aroma of lavender or jojoba with the feeling of soft, juicy moisture just soaking into your every pore? It’s pure bliss if you’re mindful of it.

Listen, there’s a reason that the hashtag #selfcaresunday has been used 1.6 million times on Instagram. It’s also not surprising that almost 60% of women say that their beauty regime helps them relax. I’m on a mission to bring that number closer to 100%.

Without further ado, here are some ideas on mixing mindfulness, appreciation, gratitude, and your skincare routine to help you discover what self-care can do for your psyche.

Start with being thoughtful and intentional about cleansing your skin. Know the ingredients you’re using, and choose a cleansing balm with natural ingredients and super soothing oils to pull that dirt, makeup, and pollutants right off your face. Make sure to take in the aroma and how it feels on your skin, too.

Use simple ingredients and fewer products from start to finish. Women use an average of 150 chemicals on their skin alone every single day. The truth has never been hidden but remains that a more uncomplicated attitude toward not only skincare but life, in general, has a direct connection to mental health.

Practice portion control not only with dinner but with your anti-aging products. Don’t just squeeze out a massive dollop because your brain is telling you that more is better. It’s not. Use a dab about the size of a hazelnut or small almond. Less is definitely more and will keep you from breaking the bank before your regime has a chance to do its job.

Massage. Not just your cleanser and moisturizer, but get yourself a jade or rose quartz roller. It works to assist with drainage, remove toxins and excess fluid, and boost circulation. Plus, the 3 minutes or so just feels good, and you get a chance to soak in all that pleasant, calm relaxation!

So... appreciating your skin and remembering that slowing down and taking note of what’s around you and what you’re doing is simple self-care. Mindfulness is a meditative practice that we should all do as often as possible! Add in sweet aromas, tender massage, and minimalism, and you’ve got yourself quite the mindful self-care skin routine!