We are constantly reading about new year and new you, but, really, what's wrong with the old you? You've got this far, so well done you! Pat on the back time. Okay, some things could be done better, in future, but is January really the best time to think about it?
Why we do this during the most miserable time of year beats me entirely
It would make more sense to wait until the mornings are lighter and we feel keener to get out of bed and fancy eating salads, when it's warmer.
But no. We exit the Festive Season of food, booze and not enough exercise and feel the primeval need to chastise ourselves.
Don't do it, is my advice
Be like the Elephant's Child and be kind to yourself.
He was kind to his poor pulled nose, and many of us also have red noses at this time of year. Not pulled by a crocodile probably (although who knows? I'm not judging), but sore and red all the same. The mulled wine and cocktails don't exactly raise your vitamin C levels, and colds and coughs are boringly rife.
Steam and soothing unguents are what you need, not self flagellation
Why not treat your skin to some TLC instead of beating yourself up about what's already been and gone? Give your face a steam, followed by a cooling clay mask and then a soothing cream mask. I do literally use a Soothing Mask, the one from Dr Hauschka, on myself and clients, at this time of year. It's also really great for sore chapped lips. Just apply a little and watch, as your lips start to feel soft and moist.
As for the New Year's resolutions, why not leave those to February?
Give yourself a little time and space to reflect on what you really want and need, rather than leaping into a new year with misplaced enthusiasm.
About ten years ago I made my last ever resolution - the only one I ever kept, and it was not to make any more. Unusually, that one has been kept!
Happy New Year!
