#ClicksSalonAtHome: A morning routine to lift your spirits

Coronavirus has impacted every aspect of our lives, especially now that we are in the midst of a nationwide 21-day lockdown. If you find your anxiety levels spiking, or feeling especially down – know that you aren’t alone, and it’s a normal response to a thoroughly abnormal situation.
 
To help start your day a little brighter, we’ve put together a morning routine that combines both skincare and self-care, to help you through those days when you need a little extra boost.

Get enough sleep

Your morning routine actually starts the night before – no amount of luxury serum, great playlists or facial massage can make up for a lack of sleep. Sleep deficiency not only affects your emotional wellbeing – including the ability to solve problems, control your emotions and behaviour, and cope with change, but also your physical wellbeing.
 
While falling asleep in stressful times can be difficult, try to get to bed a little earlier than you usually would, to give your mind and body a chance to wind down in time for you to get to sleep at a reasonable hour.

Spend a few minutes stretching 

Now that we find ourselves under lockdown at home, you likely have a few more minutes to spare each morning. Spending just five minutes doing an easy stretch will help give you a sense of control before you head into your day. Even better? You can do it in bed.
 
Lying on your back, bring both knees up to your chest and hold onto the backs of your thighs or knees as you bring them closer to you. If you can, lift your shoulders off the bed and raise your forehead towards your knees. Hold this pose for five seconds, before lowering your shoulders back down to the mattress. Tilt your chin to meet your chest, and hold for a further 30 seconds.

Use your time wisely

Whether it’s reciting five things you’re grateful for while you wash your face, mentally planning your day or using it as a time to work through any anxious thoughts you’re having – close the bathroom door so you aren’t interrupted and spend a few minutes mentally preparing for the day ahead while you complete your skincare routine. Taking control – even if it’s for a few minutes – can help you feel better prepared to tackle the day ahead.

Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Age Defying Toner // Pond's Flawless Radiance Mineral Clay Cleanser // Olay Total Effects SPF20 7-in-1 Moisturiser & Serum Duo // Pond's Flawless Radiance Derma Perfecting Serum

Cleanse and massage

Cleansing is the perfect stage to add in a few minutes of DIY facial massage. Not only will it help any tense muscles relax, it also helps stimulate circulation and release toxins. 

To start, press your index and middle fingers between your eyebrows and slide up, over your forehead, repeating several times to cover the entire area. Next, gently move your fingertips from the centre of your face, next to your nose, out past your cheeks and to your ears. Finally, repeat the motion across your jawline as needed.

Take the time to treat

If you aren’t already using a facial serum in your routine, then now's the perfect opportunity to add one. Not only do serums have a luxurious, silky texture that can make any skincare routine feel like a treat, but they also generally contain active ingredients to target specific skin concerns. Struggling with pigmentation, loss of moisture or dullness? Now is the perfect time to give your skin what it needs.

IMAGE CREDIT: Shutterstock