Lose 10 pounds.
Go to the gym at least three days a week.
Eat more vegetables.
Watch less TV.
Quit smoking.
Every January 1st, many of us tune into the sense of opportunity that comes with the New Year and commit to a resolution (or a few of them) that motivates us to make the months ahead our best—and healthiest—yet.
Setting goals that involve nutritious eating, regular movement and other good-for-you habits are the most common and are, of course, wonderful ways to improve your lifestyle. But, have you ever considered some less obvious promises, like exfoliating more, deep-conditioning your hair twice a week or getting a bodywork treatment every month?
These and other beauty resolutions may not seem significant enough to declare, but they can carry more weight than you may realize. Paying more attention to how you’re treating your skin, hair, nails enhances your appearance, yes. It also puts you in a frame of mind that helps you think of all the ways you can commit to making what we call your whole beauty shine.
That might mean trying to tap into your creative side more often, or aiming to show your generosity more by helping a friend in some way every month—pledges that get at deeper, more meaningful aspects of who you are and what you share with the world.
When you see more glowing skin from your more regular moisturizing routine, remember that it’s just one example of something you can do to reveal your best self.
Hopefully, these suggestions will inspire you to create and commit to some beauty resolutions that will transform how you feel this year—on the inside and out.
CARVE OUT MORE TIME FOR SELF-CARE.
Whether you’d like to commit to taking a relaxing bath every week or flossing your teeth every night, give it the time it deserves—even if that means scheduling it into your routine.
Create a Sunday night ritual of finishing off the weekend with a long, hot soak in your tub, or start getting ready for bed just five minutes earlier each night so you have the time to clean your teeth properly. It doesn’t have to require a big shift, just a conscious effort to make it happen.
MAKE SPECIAL TREATMENTS PART OF YOUR REGULAR ROUTINE.
For many of us, the only time we schedule a facial, massage, acupuncture session or other expert treatment is when we’re on vacation, trying to address a specific issue (such as acne or neck pain) or using a gift certificate.
Try taking advantage of these feel-good services more often; maybe set aside money each month to get the reflexology massage you enjoy, or set up six body wrap treatments for the first half of the year now, for example. Choose something that you look forward to—something you enjoy both during and after the service.
LISTEN TO YOUR SPIRIT…AND YOUR HEART.
Consider a resolution that speaks to your spiritual side. Ask yourself: What do I love to do or wish I could do? What makes me happy? What fulfills me? Maybe it’s writing or taking photographs, practicing yoga or cooking. Maybe it’s volunteering or visiting your favorite museum, or spending time with family and friends who you love—and who make
Maybe it’s writing or taking photographs, practicing yoga or cooking. Maybe it’s volunteering or visiting your favorite museum, or spending time with family and friends who you love—and who make you feel loved.
Promising to start or do more of something that resonates internally is you acknowledging that your whole self needs nurturing in order for you to look in the mirror and see not only the glowing complexion you’ve made an effort to care for but also a happy person—and for others to see that, too.