The waves are rolling in gently, the palms are swaying, the sun is shining – ahh this is Bali bliss and the perfect antidote for the winter blues.
This week I’m beside the sea in Sanur, Bali. (Lucky me!) I’m here to enjoy a holiday, take time to think, contemplate and prepare for the next few months. Also enjoy a massage or two, pamper time at a spa and of course a bit of shopping.
Now I know you are not here with me, but I want you for a moment as you read this blog, to imagine you’re in your happy place, feeling relaxed and consider these five ways to look good, feel great and shine in whatever weather season you are.
1. Nourishment for the mind, body and soul. Nourish yourself with extra pampering. A day at a spa or soak in a bath by candlelight. Spoil yourself or your partner with a massage. Treat yourself to a pedicure and manicure. There are plenty of ways to pamper yourself and boost your feel-good endorphins.
Learn something new. Start writing that novel or non-fiction book you’ve had on the backburner. Take up the French or Italian lessons and plan your next European getaway. Food for thought and nutritious food for you with delicious vegetable soups, casseroles and curries. Can’t cook? Take this time in winter to learn.
2. Elevate your seasonal style. It’s pretty tempting grab the black pants or jeans, the cosy knit, a pair of Uggs (if you’re not at work) and stay in that uniform for as long as we can during the week. However, why not liven up your look with some colour.
A bright or light-coloured jacket, fabulous coat or jumper might be just what you need. Red is everywhere right now.
There are also sales on, so buy something that will take you through the rest of the season. Perhaps a scarf or two to complement your outfits or a new pair of fabulous boots.
3. Extra care for your hair and skin. Both can take a beating with the cold air, so make sure you feed your hair and skin with good quality skin and hair oil and nourishing creams. Don’t forget the SPF as the sun does still shine and can be just as skin damaging in winter as in summer.
Lips will need a bit of extra TLC with constant application of lip balm. I have one that stays in my car for ongoing use. (Also in my beach bag!) Hands and nails too need extra nourishment. Another thing I like to do in winter is to add a bowl of water to the room while the heater is on to ensure the air is not too drying. If you like, a humidifier is a great addition.
4. Enjoy the great indoors. We do tend to hibernate more as the sun sets earlier and rises later. However, let’s not use that as an excuse to continually binge watch Netflix. (Not too bad sometimes!) Winter is a wonderful time to entertain friends and family with hearty meals and not feel too guilty for having that extra piece of pudding.
I love the Norwegian principle of Hygge where we cosy up with fireplaces, rugs, play board games or cards and of course do it in fabulous, stylish, Scandinavian surroundings.
5. Keep energised. Don’t forget to exercise. We often don’t feel like getting up for the sunrise walks like we perhaps do in summer but it’s still important to keep up with regular exercise. Especially if we’ve taken in a few extra calories over winter. Find other activities that you like to do and incorporate some outdoor activity in your exercise plan.
Long bush walks, bike-riding, sight-seeing in your city, visiting galleries and gardens are ways to keep moving in winter. Being outdoors in nature is wonderful in winter and has the added benefit of an extra dose of vitamin D.
I hope these few tips keep you shining through the remainder of winter.
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Sue Currie is an image entrepreneur who guides and empowers business leaders and entrepreneurs to have “Spotlight Confidence”. She is passionate about helping professionals elevate their personal and professional brand through her speaking, coaching and training programs on Self Brand, Style and Speaking Skills, providing a multi-faceted approach to gain high transformation for her clients.
