Take some time to relax! Here are our top tips to help you destress during your busy schedule

Take some time to relax!

Here’s our top tips to help you destress during your busy schedule

April is Stress Awareness Month, and we have the top tips to help you destress from your busy schedule. Sometimes the best thing you can do when you’re stressed is to try something new to take your mind off of the stressful events life brings us.

Start a journal

Man writing in a journal

Studies show that writing down your thoughts helps decrease stress levels. It also helps you focus on your goals and keeps you accountable, so get writing!

Practice yoga

Woman Practicing Yoga

Yoga is a great way to start and/or end your day. It can decrease stress by making you focus on your breathing and balance. The more focused you are during yoga practice, the less focused you are on the things that are stressing you out. You can practice it at home by following videos on Youtube, like this one, or check out a local studio near you.

Stretch at least twice a day

Man stretching

It’s time to loosen up! Start and end your day by stretching. Stretch your arms, legs, and bend forward to stretch your back out. It will help clear your mind and make you feel refreshed. You can find more benefits of stretching here.

Do the “Wonder Woman” pose

Super Hero Pose

Have a big meeting or presentation coming up? Studies like this one from social psychologist, Amy Cuddy, show that standing in this pose gives you confidence. Simply plant your feet, put your hands on your hips, and open your shoulders. By doing this, it will help you regain the confidence you need. The more confident you are, the less stressed you are. Also, regardless of the name, men can practice this, too. (But for their sake, we’ll call it the “Superman” pose.)

Meditate (or at least close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths)

Person in meditation posture

Sometimes all you need to do is remind yourself to close your eyes and breathe. Meditating in the morning can help you gather your thoughts, think about your intentions, and keep you centered for the day.

If you’re not ready to try meditating yet, try closing your eyes and taking three long, deep breaths. Make sure you are breathing with your belly for effective results.

Think positive thoughts

Hands in contemplative posture

For every negative thought or comment, turn it around with two positive thoughts or remarks. If you keep doing it, then it will become a habit, and you’ll be in a more positive state in no time. The more positive you are, the less stressed you are.

Schedule “me time”

Sometimes all you need is to take time for yourself if you’re surrounded by people all day. “Me time” can range from a visit to AgeLess SPA for a much needed and pampering Massage or Facial, or even taking 15 – 20 minutes to read a magazine or book that you’ve been meaning to start. Let’s be honest, to take the “me time” we need, we have to literally schedule the time to do it. It’s like making a date with ourselves! #MeTime

Use essential oils

Essential Oils picture

At AgeLess SPA, we love essential oils and the benefits that come with them! From aromatherapy to applying it topically, essential oils can help you destress and calm you down. Some of our favorite oils to help destress are lavender, peppermint, bergamot, and eucalyptus.

One way to use them is diffusing these oils in an essential oil diffuser. A really great diffuser recipe we like to use is a drop (or two) of lavender, peppermint, and lemon. It will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. You can also ask your massage therapist to use peppermint or lavender or even both during your massage for all day calm results.

Eat dark chocolate

picture of dark chocolate

Studies show dark chocolate has positive effects on your mood and can lift your spirits. Keep bite sized pieces on your desk and grab one (just one, remember you don’t want to overindulge), to lower stress levels. Ummm, yes, please!

Try acupuncture

Acupuncture isn’t just for physical pain. It’s been proven to help reduce stress. According to our acupuncturist, Samantha, you don’t have to worry about looking like a porcupine, and many of her clients fall asleep on the heated bed (definitely a favorite at the spa).
See our Acupuncture page.

Go for a walk or run

picture of woman running

The days are getting longer, and the weather will be getting warmer (hopefully). Take advantage of Mother Nature’s beautiful days by getting out and going for a walk or run. It allows you to stretch your legs and burn some calories (bonus!)

Call a friend

Time flies by, and we can get really caught up in our work. The next time you feel stressed, call the friend that always makes you laugh. Sometimes all you need is to vent and have a good laugh.

Workout

Kettle Bells

Working out releases endorphins, which are proven to make you happy. By rising with the sun and carving out time to workout before you head off to work, you’ll have a post workout glow to you all day. Don’t have a lot of time to workout? Check out this HIIT workout you can do in less than 15 minutes which is equivalent to a long workout at the gym!

Treat yourself

picture of sweets

Take a little time to treat yourself to something you like. Whether it’s that new lipstick you’ve had your eyes on, enjoying a glass of red wine, a new book, a new top or shoes, or even a cupcake, the possibilities are endless. (have you checked out bareMinerals Pop of Passion tinted lip balm yet? It’s the perfect spring accessory, and you can find it at our Horseheads, NY location). #YouDeserveIt

Get dressed up

woman putting on makeup

Put on your favorite shoes, pick out an outfit that makes you feel good, and do your hair and makeup the way you like it. You may notice halfway through getting ready, your mood will start to lift. When you look good, you feel good!

Whether you need some time to gather your thoughts, carve out some “me time”, or get all glammed up, AgeLess SPA is here for you to help you feel your best.

– Rebecca Howe, AgeLess SPA, Marketing Specialist

Protect and Prevent with Image Skincare

Protect Your Skin With Image Skincare

When it comes to skincare, we all know that protecting your face and body will help prevent unwanted wrinkles, sun spots, and other aging curses that Mother Nature inevitably brings us. But do we all pay attention to it? Or have a go-to product? These days, it’s so hard to figure out just which of the 50+ options of sunscreen to use. Have no fear, dear friend! Here at AgeLess SPA, we’re focusing on only five SPF options from Image Skincare.

Our 5 Favorite Image Skincare Options at AgeLess SPA

Offering the following options to ensure you’re not only getting the protection you desire, but you’re getting the most bang for your buck too! Plus, all of the options below offer UVA/UVB protection and are Paraben free! #winning

Image Skincare: Option 1

Option one, the Daily Hydrating Moisturizer with SPF 30. Why do we love this product so much? You not only get the SPF you’re looking for, but also a daily moisturizer that will help keep your skin hydrated and looking lovely. This style was created for those with dry/dehydrated and or sensitive/rosacea skin types.
Find out more about this product

Image Skin Care Skin Protection

Image Skincare: Option 2

Option two, (and my personal favorite) the Daily Matte Moisturizer with SPF 32. This gem is perfect for combination skin types and offers a little higher of SPF. Following suit to option one, it also helps to keep your skin hydrated, but with a matte finish. It’s also a great primer before applying your makeup!
Find out more about this product

Image Skin Care Products at AgeLess SPA

Image Skincare: Option 3

Option three (and our best seller), the Daily Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30! Hail to the creators of this beauty, because in keeping to the lighter feeling SPF’s, this also gives you a little tint of color to help eliminate a step in your morning regimen! This lovely, 3-in-1 is perfect for weekends for those that adore the more natural makeup applications. Simply apply and go!
Find out more about this product

AgeLess SPA Image Skin Care Product Daily Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

Image Skincare: Option 4

Option four, the Daily Ultimate Protection Moisturizer SPF 50. Designed with the highest SPF from Image Skincare™ and also offers lightweight protection too. It’s even great for skin that’s recently had a skin procedure, such as laser or stronger facial (from AgeLess SPA, of course). Offering stem cell technology to keep your skin cells protected, which we all know, slows the signs of aging. #thankyou
Find out more about this product

Image Skincare Daily Ultimate Protection Moisturizer SPF 50 AgeLess SPA

Image Skincare: Option 5

Lastly, option five. The Ultra Sheer Spray SPF 45 is designed for easy application and protection. Dispensed as a foam and dries clear, its light weight and water resistant! This gem can also be used on any skin type and ideal for camping and outdoor activities. (If winter ever actually ends, that is)
Find out more about this product

Prevention Ultra Sheer Spray spf 45 at AgeLess SPA

Final Thoughts

If it’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that the more you take care of your skin now, the more it will thank you later! I personally am not the best with a full regimen, and I know that. However, in finding my favorite one in the matte SPF, I know I’m giving my skin the nutrients it needs to stay protected and look great. The question is, which one will you choose?

– Amy Gessi, AgeLess SPA, Marketing Specialist