I thought I'd share a few things that have been sustaining me:
Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links where I or one of my friends will earn a small commission if you buy through that link.
Walking - My husband and I started taking daily walks. We have a path through the neighborhood that's 6 feet wide. It's an important part of our day. I also found virtual race through the Rock and Roll Marathon Series Virtual Running Club. So far, I've completed a 5k and a 10k.
Journaling - I write down 5 things I am thankful for each day.
Projects - Each week, I find one or two projects I can do over the course of the week. I cleaned out bookshelves and closets. I finished photo books - that made me sob. I am still procrastinating the junk drawer.
Diffusing Essential Oils - I don't think they cure COVID, but I sure do like recreating a relaxing or a refreshing smell in my living room as I sit on the couch and binge watch TV. I also use the oils to make shower spray. I like diffuse Tangerine, Spearmint, and Geranium together when I need a little boost. Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint was a great combo when we were a little stuffed up from allergies. I diffuse Breathe and Lavender at night. I purchase through my friend Amy's doterra site. She's a great resource.
Reading - At first, I couldn't read at all. I did find coloring to be relaxing. I have this coloring book. I'm getting back into it with what I like to call cotton candy books. These books aren't challenging my view of the world. It's like a romantic comedy or a great tv show. One of my favorite series is the Richard Castle Detective Mystery Novels. The series starts with Heat Wave by Richard Castle. If you liked the show Castle or any of the legal/cop shows where they solve a crime a week, I think you'll really like these.
Binge-watching TV - We loved Justified on Hulu, Schitt's Creek via CW App, Star Trek Discovery on CBS All Access, Bosch on Amazon Prime, and The Good Fight on CBS All Access.
Skincare
I launched Operation Empty Bottle. I love to name things. I decided this was the perfect time to really commit to washing my face night and day and trying all the products I've been stockpiling from Rodan and Fields and my FabFitFun boxes. Below is my very long list of favorites. The links are to my Rodan and Fields' page or to Amazon through an affiliate link.
My go to skin care regimen is Rodan and Fields Redefine. I've added these other products into rotation and loved them.
Cleansers
Dr Brandt pore no more Pore Purifying Cleanser - This has salicylic acid and tea tree oil so it's not for sensitive skin.
Serums & Night Creams
Rodan and Fields Active Hydration Serum - This is the best moisturizer I've ever used. It's a serum so it's light, but it holds up throughout the day. All skin types.
The Better Skin Co. Epik C Serum - This is a Vitamin C serum. Vitamin C helps promote collagen production and protect skin from those pesky free radicals. All skin types.
Grown Alchemist Detox Night Cream - This cream is no joke. It's a powerhouse. Every time I use it, I get a little breakout since it is pulling so much junk out of my skin. If you have sensitive skin or acne-prone, proceed with caution.
Dr Brandt Needles No More No More Baggage - This is my go to under eye cream when I've been crying a lot. It quickly calms down the under eye swelling.
Retinol should be an important part of your skin care routine. I am just finishing up my Rodan and Fields Redefine Intensive Renewing Serum and I am going to swap it out for Rodan and Fields Reverse Dual Active Brightening Complex.
Masks
I've been applying a lot of masks lately.
Generation Clay Brightening Purple Clay Mask does a great job brightening skin at a good price.
Rodan and Fields Reverse Radiance Mask is my favorite. My skin glows after use.
Rodan and Fields Recharge Detox Mask is my go to when I sense a hormonal break out on the horizon.
111Skin Rose Gold Brightening Facial Treatment Mask - This is one of those masks that is silicon and you lay it over your face and scare the other people who live in your house. It's hydrating and your face will glow.
Do It Yourself Pedicure
Whish Exfoliating Foot Mask - This product is awesome. You put it on before you go to bed with socks. In the morning, your feet are substantially softer. My husband even requests "that really good food stuff."
Electric Nail File - This makes at home manicure and pedicures so much easier!
What has been sustaining you through this difficult time?
