Guide to an At-Home Glow Up
The "glow-up" is one of countless trends born on social media over the last decade. It involves using products or changing your lifestyle to achieve a new, more socially acceptable look. The commodification of self-love isn't new, but this trend is especially harmful because it tells us we'll like ourselves more if we just buy that one product or try the newest treatment.
Social media is known for exaggeration and distortion. What we see online rarely mirrors our day-to-day lives. The idea that we can change our self-image through consumption doesn't hold up under scrutiny. But the question remains: if products aren't the key to self-acceptance, then what is?
Simply put, the way we treat ourselves reflects how we feel. Straightforward steps like getting an extra hour of sleep or drinking more water can drastically improve our mood. So start with the basics: eat a balanced diet, drink enough water, and aim for 8 hours of sleep a night.
Understandably, that can sound a little boring — and the whole point was to treat yourself, right? So here are a few ideas for self-care at home, no spending required:
Give yourself a face massage using your hands or a gua sha, if you have one
Splash your face with cold water, or dip it in a bowl of ice water
Massage your scalp in the shower to promote circulation and hair growth
Search YouTube for a Pilates or bodyweight workout
Find a stretching routine online to loosen up tight muscles
Clean out your closet, donate what you don't wear, and figure out how to style what's left with more intention
The whole point of a glow-up is to feel better about yourself. So focus on taking care of your body first, before you think about consuming anything. You can also check out our event directory to find local wellness events — we have something for everyone. Click here to learn more.
