A Day Dedicated to Pampering Your Hands

Winter is a season where self-care should not take a backseat. Even though the sun-kissed glow may have faded, and the morning freshness of your skin might not be as vibrant, it’s essential to keep up with your beauty routine. Hands, just like your face, are a significant part of your appearance and deserve equal attention. Dedicate a winter weekend to pampering your hands, and you’ll see the difference.

Exercise

A quick three-minute workout for your hands can bring a world of difference. The most problematic area is the shoulder region. To keep your biceps and triceps toned, a little strength training is necessary. Don’t have dumbbells? No problem! Grab two plastic bottles, preferably 1.5-2 liters, and fill them with water.

To improve your triceps, alternately lift the bottles above your head and bend your arms behind your head. For a firm biceps workout, sit facing the back of a chair. Place your straight arms on the backrest so that the bottles in your hands are facing upwards. Slowly bend your arms at the elbows, bringing the weight closer to your shoulders, and then extend them.

Shower

After an energetic mini-workout, it’s time to freshen up and take a shower. You can rinse your hands from the wrist to the shoulder and back with a strong stream of water. This will not only feel pleasant but also strengthen your blood vessels and heart. For toning your face, you can use ice cubes from the freezer. Your hands will appreciate an aromatic lotion or cream containing natural ingredients like lemon, shea butter, honey, or lavender. Avoid products with vaseline or paraffin.

Massage

After working out your shoulder muscles, treat them to a relaxing massage. Leave the hands for the evening (even if it’s not entirely correct from a full massage technique perspective), but relax your shoulders and forearms in the morning.

Start with stroking the shoulder area, moving towards the armpit and forearm, kneading the biceps and triceps. You can use pinching, light tapping, and vibrating movements. Pay special attention to the elbow joint, as the skin there is very thin and dry.

Diet

Before breakfast, drink a glass of pure water. After 20 minutes, you can start eating. Begin your day with a small dietary adjustment by consuming a carrot or carrot juice. Carrots are rich in vitamin A, which nourishes your skin and nails.

Set aside a couple of tomatoes for lunch and a kiwi or orange for an afternoon snack, as they are also packed with vitamin A. Instead of a poppy seed bun or cake, opt for rye or whole grain bread with butter and an egg. Replace your cup of coffee with green tea, which is much healthier.

Note: Creams containing caffeine are ideal for your hands in the fall.

Warming Up

If you have a trip to the city or a family walk planned, make sure to keep your hands warm. Moisturizing cream and gloves are your best friends against redness and dryness. After your walk, wash your hands with warm water and glycerin soap. It will additionally moisturize your skin and give it a pleasant velvety feel.

Nutrition

Dedicate the second part of your day to your wrists and fingers. To prevent a deficiency of vitamins A and B, which keep your nails from peeling and breaking, prepare a meal worthy of their beauty. For example, bake any fatty fish with tomatoes under sour cream with cheese, and add a piece of whole grain bread to the first course.

Procedures

In the evening, while watching your favorite movie or listening to music, make a bath to soften your cuticles and nail plates. Mix some heated olive oil and a few drops of lemon juice in a convenient container.

Soak your hands in the warm mixture and forget about them for 30 minutes. You can use the resulting mixture for up to two weeks. This procedure is recommended two to three times a week.

Stores offer a wide range of ready-made hand masks, so you can simplify your task by buying a few in advance. Apply them in a thick layer under cellophane gloves, and after 20 minutes, rinse with warm water. Then, apply a cream with shea or coconut oil to your fingers with rotational movements, starting from the cuticles.

Relaxation

After the relaxing oil procedure, you can give yourself a beautiful manicure with a coating or let your nails rest. An evening hand massage will be the final touch to a wonderful day dedicated to your tender hands.

Stroke the surface of each finger with your thumb and index finger, starting from the tip and ending at the base. Then, knead the soft tissues of the fingers with circular movements and stretching. Rub and stroke each finger.

After massaging both hands, gently move each finger joint. Do the same with your wrists: stroking, rubbing the back of your hand and the base of your palm, and finish by massaging between your fingers.

Remember, your hands are the first to give away your age. Their beauty, grooming, and youth depend on your love for yourself and your body. You are your own unique individual!

Text: Julia Rudneva