Slowing down

The pandemic + accompanying stay-at-home orders have really brought to light the small pleasures in our day to day life that are often taken for granted. During this time of uncertainty, I’m savoring much more than usual the opportunity to get outside and enjoy nature. Whether that means a chic-file picnic at the local lake or sitting on the back porch soaking up some vitamin D while working.

The Ordinary

This brand has been on my list for awhile now and I finally got a couple products to try out. Currently using their Retinol 0.5% in Squalane and Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5. I have noticed the most results while using the retinol. I use the retinol after cleansing in the PM and then I’ll mix a bit of the hyaluronic acid with my daily moisturizer after cleansing in the AM.

If you’re new to retinol, I would first try using it 2 or 3 times a week to see how your skin reacts and then possibly every other day and then daily, if needed. Your skin will be super susceptible to the sun so make sure to use a sunscreen in the AM. I’d recommend storing the retinol in your fridge for best results.

Have you tried any of The Ordinary products yet? Not going to lie, I’m a sucker for their minimal + industrial style packaging!

Retinol helps to fight acne, reduce wrinkles, stimulate collagen, and promote cellular turnover.
Hyaluronic Acid helps retain moisture, reduces inflammation, promotes even skin tone / texture and also improves skin elasticity.

Keeping a running routine

In case you missed it, I recently shared about my love affair with the ProForm / iFit combo, here. I’m happy to say I’ve been running consistently since the beginning of March and it’s at that sweet spot where it’s not a chore or a punishment, or something I “have” to do. It’s something I get to do. I enjoy getting up and knocking out a run first thing in the AM because it makes me feel accomplished and ready to concur whatever the day might throw my way.

If you’re struggling to find a physical activity that doesn’t feel like a punishment, try finding an activity that feels like “play” to you. Maybe something low-impact like walking, pilates or yoga. Your go-to workouts or preferred physical activity doesn’t have to look like those people you follow on Instagram. It’s so easy to get lost in the rabbit hole of social media and feel like you should be doing what they’re doing in order to see or feel whatever results you're seeking. Honestly, this is something that I’ve battled with but have finally realized that a workout routine that works, is one that you look forward to and can enjoy. If you’re not enjoying it, you’re not going to stick with it.

Lastly, some pins I’ve been loving

How are you holding up with the quarantine?

xx, Riss