Fact: Working out is a great way to burn off stress and boost your mood. That’s because exercise has been shown to lower cortisol levels (aka the body’s stress hormone) and release endorphins (the body’s happy hormone). And when you do it in a park, the woods, a beach or any natured-filled space, you get the added benefits of nature! So we’re asking everyone to spend more time with nature to get a boost of happy (aka #NatureReset), and sharing ideas on how to deal with stress through 5 calming outdoor sports.
Hiking
If you’re in an area where you can go hiking, get out there asap! But don’t worry about how easy or advanced the trails are, just being surrounded by plants, grass, and trees has serious stress-fighting benefits. Case in point: One study found that hiking through greenspaces has the same effect on your brain as meditation. So say “yes” to ditching stress by taking a hike!
Walking or Running
Dealing with stress but nowhere near the woods? Don’t worry! You can still get in on the de-stress benefits of spending time with nature without going on a hike. How? Instead of hitting the gym, take your walking or running routine outside. Go for a walk through your neighborhood, a run at an outdoor track, or head anywhere that gets you outdoors and into nature.
Yoga
If you’re curious about how to boost your mood through gentle exercise look no further than yoga. Whether you’re just getting started or consider yourself a master, yoga has the unique ability to strengthen your body and calm you brain like no other physical activity. On nice days, try taking your practice to the next level by taking it outside! You’ll quickly find that the health benefits of nature amplify the stress-busting and mood-boosting effects of doing yoga. Bad weather? Try listening to a nature sounds app while you go through your flow to get the same soothing effect!
Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball & Beyond
Whether you’re at the park or at the beach, playing sports outdoors is way better than doing them inside. Like we mentioned earlier, both exercising and being with nature lower stress hormones and give you a boost of happy. Plus, when you’re outside, you get the added benefit of sunlight, which is responsible for creating and activating Vitamin D when it hits your skin. As you probably already know, Vitamin D is one of those things your body needs to fight off colds, flus, and other illnesses. And as you definitely know, too much sun can be harmful for your skin. So don’t forget to apply some SPF before hitting the field or the court!
Swimming, Surfing & Other Water Sports
If you’re searching for ways to be happierand have a pool, lake, or ocean nearby, water sports might be the perfect de-stress option for you. Since lots of outdoor pools are surrounded by greenspaces, they help maximize the stress-lowering benefits of swimming. And for those who live or spend time at blues spaces (think bodies of water like lakes, rivers, oceans, and more), one study found that they can give you a feeling of relaxation. So going swimming, surfing, paddle boarding, or doing other water sports can make you feel ultra-chill.
We’re superfans of everything nature. It’s why our products contain ingredients like fuzzy apricots, milky coconuts, zingy cranberries, and creamy shea butter. In addition, we use the 100% naturally sourced exfoliant crushed walnut shell powder, in many of our face scrubs. 100% naturally sourced moisturizers, like soybean oil and plant based glycerin, go into our our body lotions, and 100% naturally sourced extracts, like orchid, into our body washes.
Tell Me More
There’s a lot of buzz around physical exfoliation, but rest-assured, it is a safe and effective way to exfoliate your skin when done correctly!
Tell Me More
It’s a no brainer to switch your wardrobe when the seasons change, but did you know that your body’s skin care needs change too? Keep reading as we answer all your seasonal skin care questions and offer ways to adjust your routine for hydrated, healthy skin all year long.
Tell Me More
We spend a lot of time in the shower, but are you making the most of it? If not, we’re here to help! Whether you shower first thing in the morning to start your day or right before bed to unwind, here are some self-care tips for an amazing shower experience.
Tell Me More
How do you deal with stress? If you opt for exercise, meditation, yoga, or journaling you’re on the right track. But do these activities out in nature, and their stress-lowering benefits go to the next level. In fact, just 15 minutes with nature is proven to have a serious de-stress effect! 1
Tell Me More
We love nature just as much as you do! It has plenty of good stuff that brings out your skin’s natural glow like exfoliating walnuts, or soybean —you name it. That’s why our products feature 100% naturally sourced exfoliants, extracts, or moisturizers so that you can always feel revitalized and glow.
Tell Me More
Curious to know why we love nature so much? Because it has serious benefits and is seriously fun! From lowering stress levels to boosting your mood, keeping you healthier to helping you focus, it’s the cure-all we all need to tap into more.
Tell Me More
Exfoliation is the removal of dead and the oldest skin cells from the topmost layer of skin and can be accomplished via face scrubs, facials or peels. Now, how often should you exfoliate your face? Skin should be exfoliated on a consistent and regular basis as dead skin can get trapped on the surface and cause clogged pores, rough skin texture, dullness, and breakouts!
Tell Me More
It’s no secret that washing your face has been a no-brainer since rubber duckies were a part of bath time. It’s also safe to say that your morning and nighttime cleansing routines have changed a bit (ok, a lot) since then. So, you’ll want to make sure you know the right way. Let’s review.
Tell Me More
Confused by skin cleansers? We got you. To make the whole get-glowing-skin process easier, we’re answering some of the hottest questions surrounding the topic (what is a cleanser, what does cleanser do, how do I use a facial cleanser, how often…you get the idea) plus offering up a few ways St. Ives products can help you always put your best face forward.
Tell Me More
Here's the thing: There are a slew of scrubs and choose from out there in this great big world of beauty. Why? Because there are many types of skin! Maybe you've already identified the characteristics of the skin you're in (definitely humble brag-worthy), and maybe not (no worries, you're still good). Either way, we're here to help you. Ahead, the best scrub and face wash for all skin types.
Tell Me More
You might know skin exfoliation to be that thing that has something to do with face scrubs. Maybe you’ve heard it’s your ticket to fresher, more radiant-looking skin. Both are true!
Tell Me More
Winter can be harsh on your skin. From itchy and irritated to dry and dull, the coldest season is not kind to your complexion. But don’t let winter get you down!
Tell Me More