The Power Of Ritual & Self Care

Stress is undoubtedly on the rise. We are not only grappling with the aftermath of a global pandemic but also confronting growing, sometimes overwhelming challenges in the world around us. Many of us are seeking ways to manage our stress and find moments of relief from the constant influx of fear and worry. As a yoga and meditation teacher by trade, I began to wonder; can our clean beauty skincare routine provide us with a source of comfort and stress relief during these uncertain times? 

It's important to note that there is no direct scientific evidence proving that the specific ingredients in "clean beauty" products actually lower your stress response through skin absorption or through a skincare routine itself. However, transforming our skincare routine into a ritual can certainly help reduce cortisol levels and serve as a valuable tool for managing stress.

Engaging in a skincare routine is a form of self-care. Taking dedicated time for yourself, focusing on the sensory experience (textures, gentle scents), and mindfully applying products can be meditative and calming. So, let's turn our skincare routine into a stress-reducing ritual. 

Be Curious

Clinical psychologist Christine Runyan says, "The neurotransmitter of curiosity is dopamine." To begin your skincare ritual, ask yourself what your skin needs now. Some days, my skin looks dull and lifeless, informing me I need a gentle exfoliant to brighten my face and bring back my vitality. On other days, I may be a little red or dry and know then that I need hydration or a calming moisturizer. By being curious about what our skin needs and what's happening inside our bodies, we can give ourselves a little hit of "the feel-good chemical," dopamine.

Feet On The Earth

Once you've decided on the products your skin needs at that moment. Stand at your bathroom sink and feel your feet on the earth. I love the mantra "this place," a tiny reminder that there's no better place than where I stand, right here, right now. Your whole foot on the earth is a grounding practice, signaling you are no longer running through your day. From here, take a deep breath, elongating your exhalation and signaling your nervous system that it's safe to relax.

A Moment of Gratitude

Take a moment of radical gratitude for the sweet self you see in the mirror and for all that she's done. There's no denying the benefits of treating ourselves with self- compassion. 

Cleanse

Cleansing is often the most important part of your skincare routine. It’s not just about removing makeup and sunscreen; it’s also about washing away the day's emotions and interactions, as well as the pollution and impurities that accumulate from your busy life.

The Power of Scent

Scent has a powerful positive effect on our mood, memory, and overall well-being. Take a moment to inhale the aroma of the serum, moisturizer, or oil you are about to apply to your skin. Let the fragrance either calm or energize you, evoke positive memories, and help bring your focus to the present moment. 

Tend and Befriend

There are many ways to apply your products. Our friends at Vintner's Daughter emphasize the push-press method. You can also tap the area around your eye with your eye cream or massage up and along the cheekbones, giving your cheeks a lift and plumpness as you apply your face oil. However you apply, the power comes from feeling your hands on your face, tending to the garden of your skin, and befriending your own sweet self. 

Feeling Good About Where & What You Buy

As you complete your self-care ritual, take a moment to reflect on the importance of choosing clean, safe, and non-toxic formulations. These products are often made in small batches, which ensures that the ingredients are fresh and safe for your skin and body. By shopping for clean beauty products at Wren and Wild, you are supporting trustworthy brands and contributing to a small local business that fosters community connections. While we understand that our skincare routine may not solve all the world's problems, we can take comfort in knowing that having some clean-beauty besties can significantly help reduce stress, especially in these uncertain times.