With winter right around the corner, you might be stressing about midterms, getting those last few grades in, etc. Amidst all this stress, it’s important to take time to unwind and focus on yourself. You may notice your skin starting to get drier, your hair getting greasier, or a decline in your mood. Winter can really take a toll mentally and physically, which is why this season, you should be your own top priority. Below are a few tips and tricks to getting that summer glow (both mentally and physically) in the midst of these short, cold days. 

1. Meditation. This is one you can do all year round and it’s great for your mental health, especially in times of stress. Meditation is a perfect way to train your brain to exist in the present moment and it forces you to make time in your day for absolute calm, away from the noise that is our world. Check out Youtube for some great guided meditations.
2. Exfoliate. Ever wonder why your skin feels flakey or tight? This is often due to a buildup of dead skin cells, which can all be removed with an exfoliating routine. You can use a loofah, an affordable scrub, or exfoliating gloves in the shower to expose all those healthy new skin cells. 
3. Moisturize! If you’ve ever wondered why your skin looks duller in the winter, it’s because the cold temperatures combined with wind take all the moisture out of your skin. One way you can restore some of that moisture is with a body lotion. Here is a great affordable option.
4. Hair care. Your hair gets greasier in the winter, which may sound counterintuitive, but is because the dry winds strip your hair of its natural moisture, causing your body to overproduce oils. You can easily combat this using a dry shampoo or a special shampoo.
5. Candles. Candles are great because they boost your spirits and smell fantastic, brightening up yourself and your room. Light them when you’re watching a movie, studying or reading. They also make great holiday gifts for friends and family members. Here are a couple of favorites: this Kush candle, this Candier one, and this soy Homesick candle.
6. Lip scrubs and balms. Hate chapped lips? Then this tip is for you: care for your lips as you would for the rest of your face. Try a lip scrub to exfoliate, like this French Girl one or this Chapstick one. Next, use a balm or a lip mask, such as this Burt’s Bees chapstick or this Laneige lip mask.
7. Hand cream. Dry hands are one of the most annoying side effects of winter. It’s so important to take care of our hands before they get cracked and bloody, and the best way to accomplish that is with a reliable hand cream or balm. Try this Kiehl’s hand salve or this more affordable but just as effective Burt’s Bees option. 

I strongly encourage you to try out any of the ideas above — many of us don’t prioritize selfcare, and it can make a huge difference in our attitude, especially during this winter season. Happy holidays!