I’m Starting 2019 Feeling Good...

If you know me, and most people that read my posts know me pretty well, you will know that I love lists, and I love being organised. I live by my routines. Since the end of 2018, and without a big goal to work towards, I've been investing my spare money on upgrading my routine to better serve my my well being. Here are the things I've done to literally help me feel better in my own skin.

Before I went to Asia in October, I took up an offer at Inner Beauty for Microdermabrasion and Henna Brows, for next to nothing. I've had a microderm once before, but didn't see any valuable improvement (I went once and expected a miracle!), so I was a little hesitant if any good would come of trying again. Lately I'd noticed my skin was clear, but my pores were large and congested. The overall appearance of my skin was bumpy and unhealthy. My first session with Anna I received some awesome advice on how to improve the condition of my skin including; to exfoliate less (which to me sounded odd, but over exfoliating can dry the skin to a point that it overcompensates by producing extra oil), to change your pillowcases as frequently as possible (this one makes more sense), to remove skin care products from your ragime that are made with alcohol, and to invest in Vitamin A & B serums. I have now had two more sessions since, and of late am seeing a marked improvement in the appearance and texture of my skin. I invested in a great Vitamin serum that I love and will have to buy another soon as I am running low, and have swapped out my old drying toner for Thayers Witch Hazel alcohol free Rose Petal Toner - which I love! I have a way to go but am much happier without make up on leaving the house - in fact I don't wear any on the weekend unless I have special plans.

On top of the things I am doing for my skin from the outside, I have recently purchased some Qt Belle Encore Supplements loaded with goodies to explore how adding a couple of capsules a day can help. I'm usually not that great at remembering to take pills, but with my new-found investment in feeling good, I have so far stayed well on track. I'm not sure what should happen exactly, as these are designed to help strengthen hair and nails, digestive health and your hormonal balance, as well as improve skin, which has been my problem area. I'll let you know how I get on...

Physically (which I find always leaves a strong mark on my mentality) I've been going to Whakatu HQ for quite some time now. In December I completed their weight lifting camp which means I can now attend their 'Optimum' level classes, apposed to Bootcamp which does not include Olympic weight lifting or as much gymnastic components. I have only been to a few of these much higher intensity classes, but I really enjoy the challenge. The gym is currently running a 7 week points competition covering exercise, nutrition and body measurements, which is now up to week 2. The aim is to cut booze, bread and dairy, to increase weekly class attendance and to loose weight. After one week I'm content with my progress and feeling good physically. I've noticed a difference in how I see myself in the mirror - I cannot wait to get to week 7 to see where I end up. Aside from the challenge, I really want to improve my lifting technique - it really is harder than it looks!
 *Pro tip - invest in good make up remover wipes if you are heading to the gym straight after work - I always take my make up off so as not to worsen my bad skin.

Is there anyone out there that hasn't been to the dentist in a while? I made a point to go in January after approximately four years since my last visit (when I had my top wisdom teeth removed). My dentist has retired so I went to Tasman Dental Centre on the recommendation of my mum, and I'm glad I went. Overall my teeth were in good condition, but like getting my skin checked, it was great to get some useful information for maintaining a healthy mouth. I now have an electric toothbrush, I don't use as much toothpaste, and have started using floss tape. Of course the dentist chair isn't the most comfortable of places to be, but for the small discomfort, the peace of mind is worth it. For $150.00, I had full X-rays taken, my teeth photographed and my teeth properly cleaned - not nearly as expensive as I had expected.

In the near future I want to add to my routine, regular chiropractor visits, which from past experience have been very beneficial, especially when working out a lot, and for my posture which has also been a source of personal anguish. I also want to implement techniques for managing my stress levels. I'm good at my job, but know that I would have even better productivity if I can feed off the pressures, instead of caving under them. Any handy tips for managing stress would be greatly appreciated!

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