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"I open my arms wide to opportunity."
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Welcome to Friday! We're wrapping up the week with:
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Did You Know?
How many layers does your skin have?
Scroll for the answer!
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Eczema vs. Dry Skin: How To Tell the Difference
Dry skin can be itchy, flaky, and all-around just annoying.
But what if it's not just dry skin? How do you know if it's something more serious and you should head to a professional?
Eczema is a common skin condition that some may mistake for dry skin. Here are the differences and signs you may want to do more than drink extra water and apply some lotion:
- Feels rough or tight
- May have cracking or flaking
- In severe cases, it can cause skin bleeding
- Can also have a reddish appearance
- May come with a "burning" sensation
- Can occur with dry air, frequent hand washing, harsh soaps, and drying products
- Will be very itchy
- May have bumps or blisters
- Is "thicker" than traditional dry skin
- May have a more distinct red or gray color
- Is an allergic, genetic, and/or immune condition and may be persistently dry
While drinking more water, taking shorter, cooler showers, and using rich moisturizers can help with dry skin, eczema may not clear up on its own.
That's a good sign you may want to head to a doctor who can prescribe creams or treatments to help with eczema or any other conditions.
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Image courtesy of Nataliya Melnychuk
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Experts Share Why You Should Never Pop a Pimple in the "Triangle of Death"
Popping a pimple seems like a fairly harmless act.
However, experts caution that you may not want to do it in one area in particular.
While popping pimples can lead to scarring, there can also be much more serious consequences in an area known as the "triangle of death."
The name of this area sounds scary — but experts caution it's just something you want to be super cautious about to care for yourself!
The "triangle of death" spans from the top of your nose to either side of your mouth, SELF reported.
Kiyanna Williams, MD, board-certified dermatologist and staff physician at the Cleveland Clinic, told SELF the risks of popping a zit in this area are "because there are a lot of blood vessels there that are connected to the brain," and an infection could travel through those blood vessels to the brain.
While Dr. Williams said it's "an extreme case," experts say it's best to avoid the risk and just leave these pimples be.
Instead of popping a zit in this area, you can lean for other treatments, like a patch or a cream!
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Image courtesy of Curology
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Mind Matters: The Link Between Exercise and Mental Health
In the fast-paced world we live in, mental health is as crucial as physical health. While many associate exercise primarily with physical fitness, its impact on mental well-being is equally significant. Engaging in regular workouts is not just about sculpting the body; it's about nurturing the mind.
Exercise has been proven to be a powerful tool in combating stress, anxiety, and depression. When we work out, our bodies release endorphins—neurotransmitters known as "feel-good" chemicals—which act as natural mood lifters, reducing feelings of stress and enhancing overall well-being.
Moreover, physical activity stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters responsible for regulating mood and promoting feelings of happiness and relaxation. This surge of brain chemicals can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, providing a natural and holistic approach to mental health management.
Furthermore, exercise offers a valuable outlet for pent-up emotions and tension. Whether it's pounding the pavement on a run, punching a bag in kickboxing, or flowing through yoga poses, physical activity allows individuals to release negative energy and clear their minds.
In essence, working out is not just about building muscle or improving cardiovascular health; it's about nurturing mental resilience and finding balance in an increasingly hectic world. Prioritizing regular exercise is a proactive step toward safeguarding mental health and promoting overall well-being.
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But don’t just take our word for it. Take it from members themselves.
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Get results you can see and feel. Get your first class free* today.
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Thanks to OrangeTheory for sponsoring Note To Self. *Offer only available to U.S. customers. At participating studios only. Terms and conditions apply. Visit orangetheory.com/promotion-terms or see studio for details.
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What To Know About Slugging in Skincare
"Slugging" has become an increasingly popular skincare practice — but what exactly is it, and how do you do it?
Essentially, slugging is when you slather an occlusive ointment (like petroleum jelly) on top of your moisturizer.
Experts told Verywell Health this practice can help skin lock in moisture and help healing ingredients work their magic on damaged or irritated skin.
The amount of ointment you'll want to use and how often you'll want to do it will vary based on your skin type. Those with dryer skin types may benefit more from this practice than those with oilier complexions.
If you're interested in slugging:
- Wash and moisturize your skin like normal.
- Start small, and apply a light layer of your chosen ointment (many people like petroleum jelly or Aquaphor) on top of your skin.
- If you're worried about getting products on your pillowcase, covering it with an old t-shirt or doing your skincare routine a few hours before bed and allowing the product more time to absorb into your skin can help.
- Wash your face in the morning to remove any excess product left from overnight.
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Image courtesy of Nataliya Melnychuk
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What Is Financial Self-Care?
Financial self-care is a vital aspect of overall well-being, encompassing practices that promote financial health and stability. It involves taking intentional actions to nurture and manage one's financial situation, just as one would attend to their physical or mental health.
At its core, financial self-care means cultivating a healthy relationship with money. This includes creating and sticking to a budget, saving for the future, and being mindful of spending habits. It also involves educating oneself about personal finance topics such as investing, debt management, and retirement planning.
Furthermore, financial self-care entails setting and working towards financial goals that align with one's values and aspirations. Whether it's building an emergency fund, paying off debt, or saving for a dream vacation, having clear objectives can provide motivation and direction in managing finances effectively.
Moreover, practicing financial self-care involves recognizing and addressing any stress or anxiety related to money. This may involve seeking support from financial professionals, practicing mindfulness techniques, or engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, financial self-care is about empowering oneself to make informed decisions, prioritize financial well-being, and cultivate a sense of financial peace and security for the present and the future. By incorporating financial self-care into daily life, individuals can build a strong foundation for long-term financial success and overall happiness.
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Tips & Tricks To Save More Money
You want to save money. Maybe for a vacation. Or a new car. But … saving money is tough. And many struggle to do it well.
So here’s what to do: Read our list of money-saving strategies below, and try to implement at least one today. Even doing just one could help you save money!
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Thanks to FinanceBuzz for sponsoring Note To Self.
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Parting Thoughts:
- Did You Know: Three! This includes the epidermis, the outermost layer; the dermis, the middle layer; and the hypodermis, the innermost layer!
- 🏼♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week!
- Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Challenge yourself to find one way this weekend to show your skin some love — whether it's through doing a face mask, trying slugging, or simply making some extra time for your regular routine!
- Did You Know That Trees Form Friendships?: Have you ever stopped to think that those majestic trees around us might be more like us than we realize? From forming friendships to...
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Share the love
Know a fellow self-care lover who would benefit from joining the Note To Self Community? Forward this email or refer them at readnotetoself.com!
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Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at care@readnotetoself.com!
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