Mondays are a drag.. Un-drag them.
Here’s a little something to help the Monday Blues:
1. Write it Down
Keeping a workout log is like a written pat on the back: See how far you’ve come, recommit to your routine, and motivate yourself to keep pushing.
● Choose a format you can stick with, whether that’s a journal or an app like Evernote.
● Scribble down one positive takeaway from each workout, such as feeling happier or more energetic.
● Review your workout and find one small way to improve it next time. Add an extra rep, go for heavier dumbbells, or run a few minutes longer.
2. Part your hair differently
As much as I like the idea of summer makeovers, major change can be intimidating. Take the less committal route by switching your part. You’ll be surprised at the difference a new direction can make—and it might even convince you to go for a big chop or color job.
● If you routinely part your hair to the left, switch to the right side or vice versa. This will also give your hair more body—score!
● A part doesn’t need to be straight. Throw your hair a curveball and opt for a rounded part, which will create interesting asymmetry and add volume.
● Conquer cowlicks with the help of your blow-dryer. While hair is still wet, use a round brush and dry in the opposite direction of your hair growth, concentrating the heat at the roots.
3. Eat Veggies for Breakfast
I know the health benefits of vegetables (for starters, they lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers), but it can be tough to get in the daily recommended 2.5 cups. Solution: Work produce into breakfast to ensure you start things off on the right (green) foot.
● Add kale or spinach to your breakfast smoothie. You won’t even taste it. Try this Chocolate Love Smoothie, which tastes decadent but is packed with antioxidants.
● Whip up a farmer’s market omelette with asparagus, zucchini, or other greens.
● Two words: avocado toast. Pile some arugula on top and you’re off to a superfood start. Want more superfood ideas? Find out the ingredients wellness guru Kim Snyder is crushing on.
4.Sit Smarter
Slouching can zap your energy and your mood—and over time may lead to muscle fatigue, pain, and even injury. Straighten up by practicing smart sitting techniques.
● Sit towards the front of your chair (rather than leaning against the back), with your hips tilted slightly forward.
● Plant both feet on the ground, hip-width apart, toes pointed straight ahead.
● Keep your chin parallel to the floor, with your ears aligned over your shoulders, and shoulders stacked over your hips.
5. Skip the mirror
I know…they’re everywhere! But try dodging mirrors for days (yes, your camera phone counts). One study found that gazing at your reflection for up to 10 minutes increases anxiety. Focus on how you feel—not how you look.
● Can’t hack it for 24 hours? Log the number of times you look in the mirror over the course of one day – then aim to cut that number in half.
● Once you begin weaning yourself off, try a “mirror fast” for a day, weekend, even a week. Women who have done it for months at a time report feeling more confident in their looks.
On a much lighter note, I am way too excited for fall. So here’s some pre fall sneaks.
Thank you Airphones for my new headphones. Tips from Birchbox.
Photos by Varick.
Jeanne wears [ Box Tee : H&M, Joggers : Dor L Dor, Oxfords: Forever21 ]
