If the very thought of the hectic hours awaiting you this Summer is already starting to make you feel anxious, you need to read on…
Summer tends to be the busiest time of year for anyone who works in a salon, and getting through it can often take its toll on your mental and physical wellbeing, so Professional Beauty chatted to naturopath Lisa Guy to get the best advice on taking care of your wellbeing during this hectic season.
“Throughout summer, it is vital that we nourish our bodies from the inside, out. We should eat a well-balanced and nutritious diet and limit our sugar intake as this spikes our blood sugar levels, which ultimately makes us crash and burn,” says Guy.
According to Guy, small changes can make a big impact when it comes to your wellbeing, like these five quick and easy techniques you can start using right now.
1. Get moving
One of the easiest ways to boost your mood is to get your body moving.
“A ten minute stroll around the office block or a late night stroll with your furry friend will instantly release oxygen and nutrients to your organs and tissues,” recommends Guy.
If you need more of a reason to get moving, exercise is also proven to reduce cortisol, the hormone which increases stress in the body.
2. Take a supplement
Women who feel tired and lethargic may be low in iron and B vitamins which play a crucial role in energy production by helping the body turn food into fuel. Seventy per cent of Australian women aged between 25-55 years are iron deficient, which can dramatically reduce energy levels.
“Women require 18mg of iron per day, but on average consume less than 10mg. Get a blood test to check out your levels and try taking a good quality supplement such as Fab Iron Liquid Iron if your levels are low,” advises Guy.
3. Eat fresh
All those comfort foods you reach for when you’re feeling exhausted and over it (office lolly jar, anyone?) will only make you feel worse. Guy recommends picking up an apple instead.
“Summer is the perfect time to be eating fresh food such as fruit, lightly steamed veggies, as well as lean protein and complex carbohydrates. You will instantly feel a boost by providing your body with extra vitamins and minerals.”
4. Moisturise, from the inside
“If you feel a headache coming along, drink a large glass of water and see how that makes you feel before reaching for the pain killers. Drinking the recommended eight glasses a day will flush your system of toxins as well as hydrate your body,” says Guy.
5. Breathe
If you start to feel dizzy and notice your attention span waning, try taking some time out to breathe deeply. Numerous studies have shown mindful meditation has health benefits, but if you’re looking to start somewhere simple, Guy advises taking ten deep breaths while sitting in your treatment room in between appointments.
“Simply count your breaths to help regulate your heart beat, disperse oxygen throughout the body and calm the mind.”