With the slushy, cold weather outside, it is easy to make excuses to be less productive than we normally would be. Yes, I know it can be hard to set down the hot cocoa and get out from underneath that fuzzy blanket, but there’s still time for that- after you accomplish what needs to be done! In addition, the cold weather can be harder on our immune system if we don’t take proper care of ourselves. I have put together some fitness, health, beauty and fashion hacks to ensure that you have a motivated and healthy winter!

First off is fitness. Every year it is pretty much the same cycle- because we have oversized sweaters to hide under…and of course, with the holidays comes more delicious baked treats. It only takes a couple weeks of cold weather to ditch your workout routine, convincing yourself that you’ll have time to get in shape for the beach once spring rolls around. Try to put together a somewhat flexible workout calendar to motivate yourself, and do exercises that you enjoy! If you don’t enjoy running, perhaps try lifting or dancing!  If you don’t have the equipment or a gym membership, try at-home yoga, or HIIT cardio exercises. This way, you can’t use the cold weather as an excuse to skip your workout.

With the freezing weather (depending on where you live, I suppose), sweatpants seem like an attractive option most days…and hiding your bedhead isn’t hard to do with a hat…right?  For me, sometimes I find it hard to dress comfy, warm, and still fashionable.  My recommendation would be to buy lots of thick, comfy sweaters, that way you can brave the harsh winter wind, but still look presentable and feel confident!  On a budget? Try Forever 21, H&M, etc., they have plenty of less expensive choices!   

As for beauty, the cold weather can also be harsh on our skin, so it is important to keep it healthy! Make sure to exfoliate and wash your face gently on a regular basis. In cold months, layers of dead skin can build up, and clog pores. Using a gentle face and body lotion twice a day will keep your skin glowing and soft. Additionally, find a gentle and non-drying face makeup that works for you- I recommend Giorgio Armani foundation. 

And of course, winter is the season of sniffles. I’m such a baby when I get sick, so I like to do everything in my power to prevent catching that cold that is going around. First of all, sanitizing is important, and not just your hands, but also surfaces you may be working on, your devices such as your cell phone, doorknobs, etc. In addition, eating foods with high nutritional value (less dairy and sugar) will help you fight the germs. Stocking up on natural vitamins and supplements is a great way to fight a cold. AirBorne tablets usually do the trick- you can get them almost anywhere. Lastly, essential oils are an awesome way to stay well.  If you feel your sinuses getting stuffy, smell some cinnamon leaf, and it should help clear things up!