AD - This blog post is sponsored by Very - All opinions are my own.
Autumn always feels like one of the most transitional seasons - a noticeable shift in daylight hours and a dip in temperature. It often makes me want to curl up and do nothing - almost hibernate. However, over the past decade, I've realised there is an importance in creating an intentional routine with a focus on self-care.
If you, too, find the darker months difficult, it's important to determine what keeps your mental health and motivation in check. Below are three key areas I like to include in my own weekly routine, come cooler weather, that may resonate with you.
Skincare
When it comes to skincare, I like to view my routine as the bookends of my day. This couldn't be more important to stick to when the contrast in outdoor and indoor temperatures widens, which, at the very least, causes a lacklustre appearance.
This Autumn, along with upgrading my moisturiser to something thicker and richer, I have added a Face Sculpting Tool to my evening skincare routine to create a smoother, firmer and hopefully fresher appearance.
The StylPro Mini Microcurrent Facial Toning Device, when used with your serum of choice, works by delivering a pulsating microcurrent to the skin's surface. This pocket-sized device comes with its own storage pouch, and so far, I've found is an enjoyable addition to my routine, especially how easily it glides over the contours of my face. If you are looking to add a skincare tool to upgrade your routine this autumn, this is a great option based on the affordable price and usability.
Movement
As Summer ebbs into Autumn, I find my natural energy levels start to dip, especially when weekends aren't filled with full days spent outdoors. While less structured, having a loose routine helps keep me on track - both physically and mentally.
For me, this looks like taking a few small walks during the week and then come the weekend, committing to something longer and more scenic... often ending it with a homemade roast dinner - because I'm all for balance!
For me, feeling good is what gets me out of the door, and I've discovered Gym + Coffee offer a range of premium athleisure wear that not only looks good but feels good. My favourite piece so far has to be the flared leggings. They seem to make any jumper or fleece look great, have just the right amount of stretch, and feel buttery soft- equally comfortable for a mid-week walk or weekend hike and general lazing around the house.
Rest
This leads me nicely onto part of my Autumn routine that comes very naturally to me. I'm a huge advocate of getting adequate rest for both mental and physical health.
Rest can take many forms, but I truly believe the bedroom is the natural place to create a peaceful, restorative environment. Come darker evenings, I like to make a conscious effort to get into bed at least an hour early to read and wind down. I opt for reading as I find mindless scrolling on my phone or watching something can often make it harder to fall asleep.
Once I've grabbed my book (current read: Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid - just wow!) and often a warm peppermint tea, I switch on my Espa Aromatic Essential Oil Diffuser.
When it's finally time to sleep, I grab my Silentnight Weighted Blanket, which weighs an impressive 6.8kg, the ideal weight for even pressure over the body. This kind of all-body pressure activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which can lead to a lower heart rate, reduce stress, and all-round create a sense of calm. I also find I'm less prone to tossing and turning when using the blanket, which always results in better quality sleep. I truly believe in the powers of a weighted blanket and have gifted many as Christmas gifts over the years, and can say this specific one from Silentnight has already been wonderful to use.
I would love to your what changes you make to your routine come the colder months? Let me know in the comments.
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This is paid for advertisement with Very.co.uk
With Autumn soon upon us now feels the right time to reassess my skincare routine; switching up products for new ones to better suit my skin needs as the weather turns colder.
Much like a change of wardrobe to suit a new season I truly believe our skin requires the same attention to detail. I personally find my own skin, which is on the oily side during summer, becomes dehydrated without a solid skincare routine in place. Below you will find exactly how I’ve been tailoring my skincare routine for the upcoming weather with the help of some wonderful season-appropriate skincare products from Very, along with some practical tips on how you can keep skin changes due to the colder weather at bay.