As we return to reality after summer vacations, it can be challenging to stay active, but in fact, this is the perfect time of year to revive your wellness habits. Here, Irene shares her top tips.
“This is how I kickstart my fall routine - and stay motivated even as I return to the city after long days in the Sicilian sun.” - Irene
Irene’s favorite workouts
Walking: the everyday beauty booster
Walking is the ultimate way to stay moving; low impact, low effort, and often the forgotten, but easiest form of exercise to fit into your day.
Studies show that walking increases circulation, delivers oxygen and nutrients to skin cells, and helps regulate stress hormones that can impact the skin’s appearance.
“I walk to the office every day - 20 minutes there and back. On weekends, I usually enjoy a 2-hour walk with my kids and dog.”
Barrecore: the ultimate top to toe workout
A form of ballet-inspired training, barrecore is focused on small, precise movements that build strength and endurance, and a typical session will strengthen muscles that can be difficult to reach with other forms of exercise.
“I love the full-body workout at Barrecore in London.”
Reformer Pilates: for a strong physique, mindfully
Reformer Pilates is a powerful way to build long, lean muscles while developing balance and core strength. The controlled movements also improve posture and alignment, which in turn supports healthy circulation and lymphatic drainage, two key processes that help keep the complexion clear and radiant.
“For a mind-body connection, I visit Heartcore in London or SLT in the US.”
Cross-trainer: a tried-and-true classic
The classic cross-trainer is a way to get your heart rate up with minimal joint impact – a cardio option that keeps skin glowing thanks to improved circulation.
“This is my favourite way to get my cardio in while catching up on emails.”
Barry’s Bootcamp: the motivation kick
If you need a new start to your exercise routine, or a more intense kick of motivation, Barry’s Bootcamp is a well-known option to boost your fitness, fast. The high-intensity intervals stimulate blood flow, promote detoxification through sweat, and can help reduce stress, all of which leave skin looking brighter and more refreshed.
“If I’m really in the mood for cardio (which is rare), I’ll push myself at Barry’s Bootcamp.”
Post-workout skincare
In addition to strength and general wellbeing, exercise also has a positive impact on the skin. From the oxygen boost of cardio to the stress-relieving focus of Pilates, every form of movement can contribute to a healthier complexion. Pairing consistent activity with a considered skincare routine creates the perfect foundation for luminous, resilient skin all year round.
Of course, exercise can also leave the complexion temporarily hot, flushed or vulnerable, and the muscles sore - especially after a longer pause from exercise. These formulas are the ideal post-exercise skincare companions - using the power of natural ingredients to refresh and ease tension:
Lemon Toner
This spritz toner instantly refreshes and hydrates skin post-workout with natural astringent and antiseptic benefits, while giving a cooling sensation and restoring radiance. It also targets post-summer pigmentation with a triple AHA complex from Italian Lemons, Apples, and Grapes.
Sage Body Oil
This soothing body oil melts into skin to ease overworked muscles, relieve tension, and restore calm. At the heart of the formula is Arnica, a key active ingredient that contains restorative Helenalin, Flavonoids, and Coumarins to soothe sore muscles. Hypericum (St. John’s Wort) aids skin recovery and calms redness, while Sage helps alleviate tension and promote relaxation.
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