1. Morning affirmations. When I first read about morning affirmations, I thought they were a load of nonsense. Babbling self-indulgent words to yourself every day, repeatedly? Well, turns out it's actually productive and empowering to be nice to yourself, who knew?! Every morning I list three things I'm grateful for, three things I'm looking forward to, and three thing I love about myself or my loved ones. It starts my day on a positive note and reminds me how grateful I should be for my life. Remember, there's always something to be grateful for, there's always a positive thought to be had. It's okay if you're not in the right headspace, just take it easy and don't put pressure on it. Some days I forget to do this, but generally I try to as much as possible. 

2. A hot drink in the morning. I drink Red Bush caffeine-free tea in the morning; it warms me from the inside and it's comforting to get up early and watch the sun for a few minutes with a cuppa. If you're not into hot drinks, maybe a glass of juice or water? Either way, find a few minutes to let yourself sit in the morning silence and relax. 

3. Remember to have breakfast! It fuels you and gives you energy for the day ahead. I often feel lethargic and sluggish throughout the day if I don't eat breakfast. It doesn't have to be "healthy" or one of those perfect smoothie bowls you see all over instagram. In fact, mine is often a bowl of coco pops or some buttered toast. 

4. Light a candle or get a reed diffuser. You'll be amazed at how much a relaxing scent changes your vibe and mood. I've been loving this one from Rituals stocked at Fragrance Direct recently. It's full of calming and fresh tones. I put ours on the coffee table in the living room and open the doors and windows to help the scent and fresh air circulate throughout the apartment.

5. Take care of your skin! I've recently been using this US Apothecary coffee and vanilla face mask. It's a beautiful texture, really brightens and evens the skin, and is really affordable. Also, I've been loving the REN Flash Defence mist for adding a little hydration throughout the day. This mist is fab because you can use it bare faced, but also with a full face of glam and get the same hydrating results. REN is slowly becoming one of my fave skincare brands too, their Radiance Night Time Facial, which is essentially a potent serum that you use 2-3 a week before bed. Apply before your moisturiser and wake up with bouncy, fresh skin. Honestly it's amazing for those uneven skin textures and little break outs. Lastly, let's not forget the skin on the rest of our body. We don't do ashy elbows and crusty knees over here, we moisturise every day without fail. Keep your skin hydrated and it will thank you in the long run. I've been using the Love Beauty and Planet Muru Muru Butterand Rose lotion. It feels luxurious, is non-sticky, sinks in straight away, smells delicious, and leaves you feeling fresh and clean. The best time to moisturise if after bathing/showering when your skin is 90% dry. 

6. Make a playlist that makes you feel positive and empowered. For me, music completely changes my mood without me initially realising. It's a great way to discover new music too. If you need a positivity/empowerment playlist, you can check out mine for some inspo, both on Spotify and Apple Music.