For those experiencing winter right now, the key to survival is hibernating like a boss.

Whether it’s Snowmageddon, Snowpocalypse, Bombogenesis, or some other really craptastic winter weather event, for those in the Midwest and the East Coast wintertime can be rough. While the latest named winter storm has just made its exit (don’t let the door hit you on the way out, Winter Storm Grayson), there is sure to be another one soon.  Now is the time to make your plans for hibernating through the next deep freeze–or until spring.

Need some inspiration for hibernating like a pro, read on.

Hibernating Inspiration

1. Binge-Watching

Wintertime is not the time to worry about how much screen time you are putting in. Consider that when spring returns! January and February are the months to do some good binge-watching. On Netflix, “The Crown” is trending right now (as if you didn’t know), or go for an oldy like “Weeds,” which has many seasons for your hibernating pleasure.

2. Warm Beverages

Do not underestimate the power of a nice cup of tea to make everything all better. Right now in our home, we are making regular pots of Golden Chrysanthemum tisane from Harney & Sons. Serve it with a little bit of honey or raw sugar for a delightful, and caffeine-free, warm beverage. Looking for something with a little more kick, try making some glogg.

3. Crafting

If cabin fever begins to set in, start crafting. Craft kits make the perfect hibernating activity. Buy one or two to keep on hand for the next winter storm and learn a new craft. I just bought a punch needle kit from Myra & Jean for myself!

4. Cool Tunes

While working on your craft, and drinking your tea, turn on some tunes. I have been listening to a surf rock station on Spotify. There is just something about single digit temperatures that makes me think fondly of surf music.

5. Hot Water Bottle

It might be super cold outside, but try to keep from clicking the thermostat upwards. Instead, turn to the trusty hot water bottle to help keep you warm. Tuck a filled hot water bottle underneath a cozy throw for added warmth.

6. Potluck

Hibernating doesn’t mean you can’t invite family and friends over for a tasty meal. Bribe friends and family with talk of a delicious homemade dessert and get them to bring comfort food dishes perfect for winter. It’s a win-win situation.

7. Treat Yourself Spa Day

Our skin and hair can really take a beating during the winter. Treat yourself to a self-care day at home and revive your winter-beleaguered skin and hair.

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Blustery winter weather can be harsh on our bodies, particularly the skin and hair. And when those areas appear dry, it usually means they’re craving a healthy dose of thirst-quenching moisture.

Fortunately, your winter beauty concerns have been turned into solutions thanks to this selective list of products featuring ethical brands with naturally-derived, cruelty-free ingredients.

1. Lower the Shower Temp

We’ve probably all heard a time or two (thousand) that hot showers are bad for our hair and skin. Not only are they drying, but hot showers strip you of your natural oils, which experts believe may trigger inflammation and exacerbation of skin conditions. This is said to be especially true when that shower is above 99 degrees. Fortunately, by adding this nifty temperature gauge, you can be sure your winter showers are less damaging.

2. Moisturize Not Once, But Twice

During harsh winter conditions, it’s perfectly fine (and even encouraged) to moisturize your body twice a day. This organic hand and body lotion from Puracy is the perfect candidate for doing just that. In fact, I use this myself on my highly-sensitive skin. Hydrating without feeling greasy or leaving any residue, this gentle formula really is fragrance-free, silky, and luxurious.

3. Tame Dryness and Frizz

Another product I use regularly is this rosehip seed body oil from Life-flo. It’s excellent for putting moisture back into dry winter hair and works wonders for hydrating my skin after showering or cleansing. The smell is mild, doesn’t irritate my skin, and a few drops go a long way, making it very economical.

4. Continue Wearing Sunscreen

Just because the harsh summer sun is in hiding, doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods in the winter. Yes, the UV index is at its lowest around this time, but it still exists and can still cause skin damage. That’s why sunscreen is a year-round must. Designed to be a nutrient-replenishing cream plus SPF 30 sunscreen, you’ll benefit greatly by using this Josh Rosebrook product that was tested and recommended by staff at Organic Authority.

5. Use a Humidifier

Winter air equals dry air. And when the air has more humidity in it, the risk of infection and viral transmission is lowered, you’ll have softer, more radiant skin, you’ll breathe easier, and experience a host of other benefits. This particular humidifier also incorporates aromatherapy so you can de-stress while you re-hydrate.

6. Hydrate Your Face

Winter wind can be unforgiving, especially on the face. Therefore, a high-quality natural moisturizer is recommended, especially if you live in an extreme climate and/or already have dry skin. Suggested by the manufacturer for dry or very dry skin, this ultra-sheer moisturizer from Andalou Naturals is non-GMO, SPF 18, and scored well with EWG.

7. Lock In Lip Moisture

If you already suffer from dry, flaky, chapped lips year-round (slowly raises hand), then you know just how harsh winter weather can be on the mouth. However, it is possible to lock-in moisture with the right product. Highly recommended by many wearers, this Intense Therapy Lip Balm with SPF 25 by Jack Black just might do the trick.

8. Drink More Water

Sure, we’ve all heard this before, but its importance never diminishes, especially during the winter, when it’s crucial to hydrate from the inside-out. Silly post-its on the wall, a pestering app, or a gorgeous insulated bottle–it doesn’t matter what it takes, just do it–although, I am totally partial to this mother of pearl container from S’well. Bonus: aside from being, quite possibly, the best looking water bottle ever, it keeps your drink cold for 24 hours or hot for twelve.

9. Pamper Your Hands

Forget dry, chapped, peeling hands this winter. Instead, pamper your digits with this specially-designed hand salve from Badger Balm. Sweet birch and wintergreen oils soothe, while aloe and castor oil moisturize. If you are prone to severely dry hands, apply after every hand washing, and don’t forget to rub into your cuticles, as well.

10. And Your Feet, Too

Even if you keep your feet bundled up when heading outdoors, the combination of dry air, hot showers, and other factors, like naturally dry feet and calluses, still call for extra moisture. Hydrate and escape to the tropics (at least in your own mind) no matter where you are this winter by incorporating this pampering Coconut Foot Creme from Burt’s Bees into your routine.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Brrrr. Whether snuggling up on the sofa, in front of a fire, or tailgating before the game, cozy throw blankets are a necessity.

Just because you are super focused on function when using throw blankets does not mean you need to sacrifice form. Practicality does not require that you throw (pun intended) aesthetics out the window–at least not in our book.

Get warm and toasty with these throw blankets that combine just the perfect amount of warmth and fun design. By the way, the Danish have a word special word for getting cozy. They call it hygge, and it’s pretty much a national pastime, particularly during the winter. It sounds like the rest of the Northern Hemisphere could learn a thing or two from the Danes.

Get Cozy with These Comfy Throw Blankets

1. Open Market Throw

From the All Roads Design studio, this throw combines texture, everyday comfiness, and luxe design in a one-a-kind piece that really catches the eye.

2. Fair Isle Colorblocked

Get warmth and classic patterns in one, but with updated styling, with this throw. You will want to wrap yourself up in it all winter.

3. Living Squares

From the Danish design brand Ferm Living, this optical illusion jacquard knit blanket is super cool–er, warm. Get toasty and be stylish at the same time.

4. Kiryu Throw

Color and texture combined, what could be better? The pattern is reversible! From Osamu Mita, a third-generation textile designer known for his use of unique finishing techniques that achieve novel patterns and textures.

5. Humbert Throw

Throw this colorful, patterned blanket on your legs while curled up on the couch and binge-watching the latest on Amazon Prime or Netflix.

6. Handwoven African Mud Cloth Throw

This throw is handwoven from authentic West African mud cloth, which is cotton fabric that has been mud dyed and embellished with distinctive tribal patterns.

7. Labyrinth Blanket

This bright and colorful throw is part of the Bitmap Series by Zuzunaga where a digital image is enlarged to become pixelated to create unique and playful patterns.

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Staying chic and cruelty-free is a difficult feat come snow season. Most snow-proof clothing is either made from wool, leather, or down feathers–or it’s simply not flattering. But these slick snow essentials prove it’s possible to stay stylishly vegan while walking in a winter wonderland.

Cruelty-Free Snow Clothes

1. Thermal Top

Thermal tops lock in heat and are perfect for layering under snow jackets. This bandana print thermal by Free People is trendy and practical. Plus, it has a stretchy fit that’ll prevent you from feeling trapped beneath your layers.

2. Softshell Anorak

Jessica Simpson is one of my go-to brands for vegan snow jackets. Each season, there are usually at least three different cruelty-free styles to choose from. This soft shell anorak is perfect for wearing over a few layers on winter outings.

3. Quilted Puffer Jacket

This sleek puffer jacket by Jessica Simpson is perfect for staying extra warm with its polyester filling. Plus, it has a removable faux fur hood which will allow you to switch up your look. Water-resistant polyester means you’ll stay dry all day long in this cruelty-free snow coat.

4. Skinny Ski Pants

These slick ski pants have a skinny silhouette and are fitted closely to ensure you’ll look sophisticated. Their design allows you to ski effortlessly without being weighed or slowed down by baggy pants.

5. Floral Snow Pants

If snowboarding is your preferred snowsport, then these floral Burton snow pants are a must. The whimsical print will keep you looking trendy as you ride down the mountain. Plus, they are waterproof and very breathable with zipper vents running through the sides.

6. Colorblock Leggings

A comfy pair of leggings layered under your snow clothes are essential. The stretchy feel of these colorblock Free People leggings makes them ideal for both snow sports or just wintery walks. They’re also high-waisted which means they have the perfect rise for staying put as you move about.

7. Faux Leather Gloves

Finding gloves made without leather is always a challenge. But these Marmot gloves will keep your hands dry and warm with their faux leather coating and polyester-fleece interior. The printed trim adds a trendy touch that’ll help you stand out.

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The post 7 Cruelty-Free Snow Clothes Your Winter Wardrobe Needs appeared first on EcoSalon.

We have all heard that proverb “it’s always darkest before the dawn,” and that is never truer than on the Winter Solstice. Celebrate the Solstice and the return of sun’s light with these simple ideas.

The Winter Solstice is an astronomical phenomenon resulting from the Earth’s tilt away from the sun that marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year. In the Northern Hemisphere, the Winter Solstice occurs on December 21st each year.

While during this time of year many of us are caught up in the preparations for the various winter holidays, it’s important to remember that the celebration of the Winter Solstice is the original winter holiday. Many of the world’s cultural and religious traditions incorporated the marking of the Winter Solstice in one way or another into their celebration. To humans, both past and present, it’s been only natural to mark the day on which things seem the bleakest and darkest and to herald a return of the light. The Winter Solstice is a reminder of the awesome power of the natural world and a chance for us all to feel awed in the face of that power.

No matter your current status–whether secular, religious, or culturally religious–the Solstice is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. It is a time to unwind, de-stress, be joyful, and to appreciate the remarkable beauty that the natural world has to offer.

While some cultural and religious traditions do celebrate the Solstice in a more official capacity, you can do whatever the hell you want to mark the occasion. We offer up some suggestions, though, in case you are overwhelmed by the busy demands of the season.

6 Perfectly Lovely Ideas for Celebrating the Winter Solstice

1. Make a point to catch the Solstice sunrise and/or sunset. Not only is the rising and setting sun a stunning sight to behold during December, but watching the setting and rising sun is wonderful way to reconnect with nature.

2. Plan a bonfire. Whether you can pull off a massive bonfire or just a small backyard chiminea fire, it makes no matter. Communing with family and friends around a fire in the middle of winter is an ideal way to relax and to mark the long Solstice night.

3. Take a hike in the woods. Honor the Solstice and yourself by taking a walk in the woods. Walking in nature is the perfect time and place to reflect back on your year and to plan for the future.

4. Drink mulled wine. There is no explanation needed for this suggestion. Mulled wine is just a good idea on any cold winter’s night. It’s as simple as that. On the other hand, if you are avoiding alcohol, hot spiced cider will also do the trick.

5. Throw a dinner party–by candlelight. Honor the longest night of the year by having friends over for a meal by candlelight. Candlelight provides for an enjoyable atmosphere by which to mingle with friends and it also helps to draw attention to the darkness and lightness theme for the day.

6. Make a big pot of soup. Nourish yourself and loved ones by making a hearty pot of soup. Making and eating soup with friends is a great way to feed yourself both inside and out. And what a wonderful way to honor the day!

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Autumn and winter may not seem like the seasons to wear off-the-shoulder outfits, but they totally are. Especially if you correctly craft your ensemble.

We’ve rounded up five off-the-shoulder outfits that any woman can wear with confidence throughout the upcoming chilly months.

1. Off-the-shoulder dress

Let’s start with the subtly slinky. Body con dresses are a staple in most women’s closets. This dress, similar to all the classic dresses you already have, features a body con fit, and an off-the-shoulder accent. To counter this dress’ tight fit, pair it with a large, shaggy jacket, thick tights, socks, and vegan Dr. Martens. Priced at $78. Enhance this dress’ color by pairing it with items that are white or beige, or create a muted look by pairing it with black or forest green hues.

2. Off-the-shoulder bodysuit

If you want a sleek, put-together look at the office, we suggest wearing this snug bodysuit with a pencil skirt to avoid the dreaded panty line. This bodysuit is incredibly soft and features long sleeves. Its off-the-shoulder design is draping. The overall fit is lightweight and stretchy. Priced at $58. We think this bodysuit would look best with a dark grey pencil skirt and cropped blazer. Add some black loafers and a mini, faux leather backpack.

3. Off-the-shoulder jumpsuit

Break fashion tradition and wear flowers in late fall or early winter. If any outfit will allow you to do so, it’s this one. This incredibly trendy jumpsuit features a pronounced off-the-shoulder neckline and gorgeous, large bell bottoms. Pair this jumpsuit with a deep brown faux fur coat, dark brown floppy hat, and dark brown cowboy boots–perfect for a Thanksgiving party and feast. Priced at $168.

4. Off-the-should pullover

You can dress the off-the-shoulder trend in a casual way, too. An example: this wool, pullover sweater. It’s simple, classy, and can be worn with skirts, pants, jeans, bell bottoms… You get the idea. Maybe wear it on a casual Friday with your favorite, wide-leg, vintage jeans, worn in boots, and a slouchy beanie. Priced at $98.

5. Off-the-shoulder, retro-inspired sweater

And because retro 1970s inspired clothing are having their time in the sun—again—we had to include this versatile sweater. You can wear it anywhere. This pullover sweater features bell sleeves that would look amazing paired with platforms and corduroy. Priced at $68.

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Image of woman wearing an off-the-shoulder sweater via Bigstock

The post 5 Off-the-Shoulder Outfits to Wear Come Winter: Friday Finds appeared first on EcoSalon.

You are supposed to have dry skin in winter, right? If you are experiencing extra oily skin in the dry season, it may be due to your beauty regimen. Let’s see what we can do about that.

Those with oily skin are usually on the lookout to manage oil production and ward off breakouts. Products that help with this can be overly drying, as can different skin care techniques that target oily skin.

Isn’t drying supposed to be a good thing where oily skin is concerned? Not exactly. Skin that is too dry actually produces even more oil in an attempt to compensate for moisture loss. This is the most common reason people see excess oil.

6 Possible Reasons for Extra Oily Skin in Winter

1. Using drying products. As I said above, skin care products that are meant to be drying can cause skin to produce excess oil. The key is to balance oil production, not strip the skin of necessary oils. Steer clear of the harsh acne treatments and drying lotions for now, and see if skin comes back into balance.

2. Over cleansing. It is not uncommon for those dealing with oily skin to over cleanse. If you are seeing breakouts, redness, irritation, or flakiness, you are likely over cleansing. The remedy? Use a more gentle cleanser when skin isn’t actually dirty, say in the morning, or skip the cleanser and use a swipe of hydrating toner instead.

3. Over exfoliation. Another common blunder, over-exfoliating can cause skin to become too dry and oil production to ramp up. Strive for once to twice weekly exfoliation with a gentle product. Fruit acids are effective and non-abrasive.

4. Going with the flow. Just because a thick cream or oil cleanser works for your coworker or roommate, doesn’t mean it is right for you. If you truly have an oily skin type, it may be best to stick with a gentle foaming cleanser and lighter moisturizer even in winter months.

5. Too many tools. Those brushes and mitts that make skin look great in summer months can be too harsh for more delicate wintertime skin. Skip these for now and give your skin a break.

6. Hitting the tanning beds. Aside from the obvious health concerns, tanning dries the skin, causing it to become more oily in the long run. Looking for a bit of color through winter? Opt for a healthy sunless tanner instead.

Perfect Products for Oily Winter Skin

One Love Organics Easy Does It Cleanser

Kahina Giving Beauty Antioxidant Mask

Josh Rosebrook Nutrient Day Cream with SPF 30

True Natural Perfect Tan Face – Self Tanner & Moisturizer 2-in-1

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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Woman with oily skin via Shutterstock

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