HOW TO FEEL BETTER USING DAILY SELFCARE HABITS

When you plan your selfcare habits and routines, they become sacred elements of your life. If you don’t look after you, that is a sign of disrespecting yourself, and we’ve all been there through some of life’s challenges. Keeping it simple when adding change to your life is the golden rule for success.

My Suggestion?

Choose two days of the week to implement some new selfcare habits. You can always build on that foundation as you progress. I’ve been working on my habits for the past year and a half, and all I can say is I am a work in progress, and I am loving the journey.

I focus on Monday and Thursday most because those days work best for my lifestyle.

Below are some simple selfcare habits and beauty rituals I have incorporated into my week to keep me feeling and looking my best. I work in the beauty industry, and I am usually busy on Fridays and Saturdays so these routines help me feel like I am not missing out on fun and keep me grounded so I can pack as much enjoyment into my days as possible. 

I try not to put too much pressure on myself with strict habits every day, but I try to maintain Mondays and Thursdays religiously. When I miss these habits on those days my week falls apart pretty quickly. So below is a peek into my two most important days and why these rituals work for me. You may choose Sunday and Wednesday, the important thing to remember is to recognize what changes (habits or rituals) would bring you the most satisfaction and happiness.

Monday 

Monday morning, I rise early, somewhere between 5am and 7am, which gives me time to fit in my leisure habits. It took a long time to move my morning rise to 5am, but it’s paying off. I get to concentrate on my day ahead with my journal and a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee, watching the sun rise. 

Then I move on to cleaning my house so it is literally sparkling when I am done, then I can go into the week calm and confident. After cleaning, I go for a walk. When I return home, I take a bath or shower, put on a face masque, hair masque and do a quick manicure focusing on pushing back my cuticles, shaping and buffing my nails. I always apply a nail strengthener and shiny top coat. I stay away from colour as it looks bad when chipped. Then I apply minimal makeup and go about my day.

I love green smoothies, so I usually make one of these and take it with me while running errands. My Green Goddess Smoothie recipe is delicious and easy to make.

Green Goddess Recipe

• ½ cup ice

• ½ cup almond milk or water

• 1 cup organic spinach

• ½ organic banana

• ½ cup organic frozen strawberries

• 1 scoop vega unsweetened pea protein powder

• ¼ cup coconut milk

• Teaspoon of Moringa powder 

• Put all ingredients in a blender and blend thoroughly.

  I like using a mini blender so I can just change the top on the container and take it with me. It saves time and is an easy way to have something nutritious on the run. 

  Monday is my day off, so I try to get everything completed on my to do list before 3pm. I always try to make sure I can get home and cook a delicious meal and relax for the evening. I love to cook, and I always feel better when I plan and sometimes prepare my meals ahead of time. 

  I focus on Monday and Thursday most because those days work best for my lifestyle.

  Below are some simple selfcare habits and beauty rituals I have incorporated into my week to keep me feeling and looking my best. I work in the beauty industry, and I am usually busy on Fridays and Saturdays so these routines help me feel like I am not missing out on fun and keep me grounded so I can pack as much enjoyment into my days as possible. 

  I try not to put too much pressure on myself with strict habits every day, but I try to maintain Mondays and Thursdays religiously. When I miss these habits on those days my week falls apart pretty quickly. So below is a peek into my two most important days and why these rituals work for me. You may choose Sunday and Wednesday, the important thing to remember is to recognize what changes (habits or rituals) would bring you the most satisfaction and happiness.

One little trick to get you into habits is creating a reminder to do something, like laying out your workout clothes the night before. It is a little trigger to gently nudge me to actually go for that walk.

Thursday 

Thursday is always a long day for me. It’s usually late evening before I arrive home, so there’s not time for cooking. We usually have Turkey Nachos and Chardonnay; sounds weird, but we love this simple casual meal. 

Herbal tea is great to help me relax after a busy day. I make a Beauty Tea that is made from adaptogenic plants (Labrador Tea and Lingonberry) in Newfoundland, and it also contains Organic Blue Peaflower. I love to enjoy a cup of this tea while in my bath.

This is also the time when I cleanse my face and apply my Blueberry Bliss Sugar Scrub head to toe, wash and condition my hair and then it’s time to do my face ritual. I like to use a serum and eye cream and lip balm then I apply a sleep masque.

I love sleep masques! If you don’t have a sleep masque, use your night cream instead. You can put this on and leave it for the night (awesome after a busy day). Then it’s couch time with my hubby. We enjoy watching the news or a movie. It’s our little ritual to spend time together before bed a few times a week.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What little habits and rituals have you created that add to your happiness? I’d love to hear about them if you want to share.

BY LISA WALSH article originally published on www.sixtyandme.com APRIL 07, 2025 BEAUTY Republished with permission

Selfcare Rituals Rooted in Nature

ISC Beauty Self-Care Bath Ritual: A Transformative Island Bathing Experience.

Begin your ritual by setting the scene: dim the lights, light a candle, and play soft relaxing music — perhaps ocean waves or a calming instrumental. Fill your tub with warm water and add a generous scoop of ISC Beauty’s mineral-rich Blueberry Bath Salts, infused with hand-harvested botanicals from Newfoundland’s boreal landscape. These salts detoxify, soothe tired muscles, and restore energetic balance.

As the salts dissolve, drop in one of ISC Beauty’s all-natural bath bombs — pure white like a snowball with seaweed and peppermint essential oils. As it fizzes, it releases nourishing oils and gentle aromatherapy, turning your bath into a therapeutic soak. Inhale deeply. Let the scent of wild mint, transport you to Newfoundland’s rocky cliffs and quiet coves.

While soaking, gently exfoliate your skin with a facecloth or let your body relax completely, eyes closed, hands over your heart. Stay present. Set an intention. This isn’t just a bath — it’s a return to self.

What makes it different:
Unlike mass-market bath products that rely on artificial fragrance and filler ingredients, ISC Beauty’s bath line is handcrafted in small batches with real, wild-harvested botanicals and clean, ocean-loving ingredients. Every product carries a sense of place, a purpose, and a ritual — rooted in Newfoundland’s natural rhythms. It’s not just about scent or bubbles. It’s about transformation. Presence. A deep remembering of your own beauty.

A Little About Our Journey

ISC Beauty offers more than just skincare — we deliver a soulful, science-backed self-care experience. Rooted in the raw beauty of Newfoundland, we blend natural, island-sourced ingredients with expert esthetic formulations to support women through all stages of life, especially midlife and menopause. Whether you're visiting the Self Care Lounge or indulging in a ritual at home, ISC helps you feel radiant, restored, and deeply seen. Our personalized service, award-winning products, and commitment to sustainable beauty make us standout in an overcrowded industry — this is a destination where beauty meets meaning.

Lisa Walsh, founder of ISC Beauty (Island Skincare), is a passionate beauty entrepreneur and certified esthetician with 30+ years of experience in the industry. Based in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Lisa built ISC from a deep desire to create meaningful, holistic beauty experiences for women — especially those navigating midlife, burnout, and life transitions. Her journey is rooted in resilience: after years of balancing teaching, entrepreneurship, and caring for her parents, she envisioned a space where beauty and self-care could truly nourish the soul.

Known for her warm, intuitive approach, Lisa combines professional expertise with heartfelt connection. She formulates products inspired by the natural beauty and healing botanicals of the island, and she designs wellness rituals that help women feel radiant, grounded, and seen. Under her leadership, ISC Beauty has become an award-winning brand with a devoted community, recognized for sustainable practices and innovative self-care offerings.

Lisa believes that beauty isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. Through ISC, she empowers women to reclaim their luminousity, one ritual at a time. You can learn more about her digital offerings at www.lisawalsh.ca

Lisa grew up in the small, windswept coastal outport of Bay de Verde, Newfoundland — a rugged and tight-knit fishing community shaped by the Atlantic Ocean. Life there wasn’t fast-paced or glamorous, but it was rich in resilience, resourcefulness, and connection to nature. In a place where generations lived close to the land and sea, Lisa developed a deep appreciation for simplicity, beauty in the everyday, and the power of storytelling and tradition.

This rural upbringing greatly influenced her values and business ethos. It taught her to honour natural ingredients, especially those native to Newfoundland, and to create with intention. The isolation of small-town life also fostered a strong sense of independence and creativity — traits that now shine through in her approach to beauty, wellness, and entrepreneurship. ISC Beauty isn’t just a brand; it’s a love letter to her roots, offering modern self-care deeply connected to place, heritage, and heart.

Get that Refreshed Vacay Glow

Achieve That Vacation Radiance with Aurora Serum

You know that radiant, well-rested look you have after an amazing vacation? Skin glowing, refreshed, and naturally luminous? While we can't always escape to a tropical paradise, we can recreate that sought-after "vacation glow" right at home with the help of this skincare serum.

Introducing a Hidden Gem: Newfoundland's Transformative Serum

Allow us to introduce you to a hidden gem: a transformative serum crafted in the pristine wilderness on the island of Newfoundland in Eastern Canada.This luxurious formula harnesses the power of locally sourced ingredients, including rare botanicals that thrive in Newfoundland's untouched landscapes.

Imagine infusing your daily skincare routine with the essence of Newfoundland's rugged coastlines and ancient forests. This serum features cold-pressed blackberry seed oil, sacred Labrador tea and globally sourced Blue Tansey – each ingredient carefully chosen to illuminate your complexion.

Curious about how this treasure from Newfoundland can help you maintain that refreshed, vacation-worthy glow all year round? Join us as we explore the science behind serums and reveal the secrets to achieving radiant skin.

Understanding Skincare Serums

Skincare serums are like power drinks for your skin. They are concentrated formulas filled with active ingredients that target specific skin issues. Unlike creams that sit on top of your skin, serums have smaller molecules that can penetrate deeper into the layers of your skin.

What Makes Serum Different?

Here are some key factors that set this serum apart from other skincare products:

1. Concentrated formula with up to 10% active ingredients

2. Lighter consistency compared to traditional oil serums

3. Quick-absorbing properties that don't leave residue

4. Versatile application options for layering with other products

The magic of serums lies in their lightweight nature. These oil-based formulation sinks right into your skin, delivering potent ingredients exactly where they're needed. Their molecular structure allows for enhanced penetration, making them incredibly effective at addressing specific skin concerns like dryness, dullness, or uneven texture. Aurora Serum works amazing for problematic and sensitive skin too, improving the skin barrier to prevent irritation.

Hydration: The Key to Radiant Skin

Your skin needs proper hydration to maintain its natural glow and bounce.

When your skin is well-hydrated, it appears plumper, smoother, and more luminous. Serums deliver this hydration without the heaviness of traditional moisturizers, making them perfect for all skin types - even oily and combination skin can benefit from their lightweight hydrating properties.

Key Ingredients for Glowing Skin

The secret to achieving that coveted vacation glow lies in the powerful combination of nature's most potent ingredients. Let's dive into these remarkable botanicals that work together to transform your skin.

Cold-Pressed Blackberry Seed Oil

This luxurious oil stands out as a skincare powerhouse, packed with essential nutrients that your skin craves. The cold-pressing process preserves its rich nutritional profile, delivering maximum benefits straight to your skin.

Key Benefits:

• Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for deep hydration

• Contains vitamin A to promote cell turnover and skin renewal

• High levels of vitamin C boost collagen production

• Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors

The unique molecular structure of blackberry seed oil allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin without leaving a greasy residue. This makes it perfect for all skin types, especially those seeking intense nourishment without heaviness.

Skin-Loving Properties:

• Lightweight yet deeply moisturizing

• Non-comedogenic (won't clog pores)

• Helps maintain skin barrier function

• Reduces appearance of fine lines

• Soothes irritated skin

For sensitive skin types, blackberry seed oil acts as a gentle guardian. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation while strengthening the skin's protective barrier. The high concentration of antioxidants fights free radicals, protecting your skin from environmental damage and premature aging.

Usage Benefits:

• Provides immediate hydration

• Creates a protective barrier against moisture loss

• Helps balance oil production

• Improves skin texture and tone

• Enhances skin's natural radiance

The cold-pressed extraction method ensures that every drop of this precious oil retains its full spectrum of nutrients. This careful processing preserves the delicate compounds that make blackberry seed oil such an effective ingredient for achieving that sought-after vacation glow.

Blue Tansy Oil

Blue Tansy oil is derived from the Tanacetum annuum flower, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The oil is obtained through a process called steam distillation, where the bright yellow flowers undergo a natural chemical transformation to produce a deep blue oil.

Skin Soothing Benefits

The unique blue color of Blue Tansy oil comes from a compound called chamazulene, known for its exceptional ability to soothe the skin. This natural compound offers several benefits:

• Calms irritated skin

• Reduces redness

• Balances skin reactivity

• Supports the skin's natural healing process

Antioxidant Protection

In addition to its soothing properties, the antioxidant rich ingredients provide protection against environmental stressors. These antioxidants work at a cellular level to:

1. Fight free radical damage

2. Support the skin barrier function

3. Promote an even skin tone

4. Enhance natural luminosity

Gentle Solution for Sensitive Skin

For individuals with sensitive or reactive skin types, Blue Tansy oil offers a gentle yet effective solution. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties help minimize the appearance of various skin concerns while promoting a balanced and healthy complexion.

It helps in combating acne as well.

Aromatherapy Benefits

Blue Tansy oil also has therapeutic qualities due to its sweet and herbaceous aroma. This scent can create a sense of calmness and tranquility, making it a sought-after ingredient in high-end skincare products.

Labrador Tea Essential Oil

Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum) is an extraordinary plant that thrives in the pristine wilderness of Newfoundland. This hardy evergreen shrub withstands the harsh northern climate, producing leaves packed with healing properties year round.

The essential oil extracted from Labrador tea leaves possesses potent cleansing qualities that:

• Detoxify and purify the skin

• Regulate excess oil production

• Promote a balanced and glowing complexion

• Strengthen the skin's natural protective barrier

• Improve healing

• Slows signs of aging

Indigenous Wisdom and Sustainable Harvesting

For generations, Indigenous communities throughout North America have held Labrador tea in high regard. Their traditional wisdom acknowledges this plant as a sacred gift from nature, utilizing it for both medicinal purposes and ceremonial practices.

The harvesting of Labrador tea adheres to strict sustainable methods. Local wildcrafters carefully hand-pick only mature leaves during optimal seasons, ensuring the continued growth of the plants. This mindful approach safeguards both the ecosystem and the potency of the essential oil.

The Benefits of Labrador Tea Essential Oil

Packed with antioxidants and natural cleansing agents, Labrador tea essential oil serves as a gentle yet powerful skin purifier. Its unique molecular structure enables deep penetration, effectively:

• Eliminating environmental toxins

• Minimizing the appearance of blemishes

• Support cellular renewal

• Restoring the skin's natural luminosity

• Skin healing benefits

• A natural anti-aging ingredient.

When combined with other potent botanical ingredients in skincare formulations, this distinctly Canadian component infuses your daily routine with the pure essence of Newfoundland and Labrador's wilderness.

Incorporating Serums into Your Skincare Routine for an Everyday Glow

Creating that coveted vacation glow doesn't require a trip to the beach - it starts with a thoughtful skincare routine. Here's our guide to maximizing serum benefits for radiant skin:

Morning Routine

1. Cleanse with Aurora Facial Bar with lukewarm water

2. Tone with Aurora Mist or Sea Mineral Mist

3. Apply serum to damp skin using gentle patting motions for a minute for maximum absorption

4. Follow with Aurora Moisturizer and an SPF Foundation

5. Apply Rose Petal Eye Cream

6. Apply Arctic Lip Treatment

Evening Routine

1. Double cleanse to remove makeup and impurities

2. Tone again liberally, including neck area.

3. Apply serum while skin is slightly damp

4. Gently press and pat the product into your skin

5. Layer with Aurora Sleep Masque

6. Apply Rose Petal Eye Creme

7. Apply Arctic Lip Treatment

Pro Application Tips

• Use 2-3 drops of serum for your entire face

• Start from the driest areas and neck, apply in an upward and outward motion.

• Don't forget the décolletage area

• Tap don't rub - this enhances absorption

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying serum on dry skin reduces absorption

• Using too much product wastes precious ingredients

• Mixing multiple serums can decrease effectiveness

• Skipping moisturizer after serum application in winter is not advised.

These aspects are crucial in maintaining an effective routine, as highlighted in our tutorials.

Customization Tips

• Dry skin? Use an exfoliant once or twice a week plus a weekly masque.

• Oily skin? Use a lighter application and use a clay masque weekly.

• Sensitive skin? Start with once a day in the morning, works perfect with our Sea Veggie Lotion.

• Combination skin? Avoid adding serum or moisturizer to the nose forehead and chin in the daytime, it stretches pores and adds to the shine.

Remember the golden rule: consistency creates results. A daily routine with Aurora Serum, transforms your skin's appearance, bringing that vacation radiance to your skin everyday.

Why Choose Made in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada Products?

Newfoundland's pristine environment creates the perfect conditions for potent, pure skincare ingredients. The harsh climate and unique geography of the region naturally strengthen local botanicals, forcing them to develop powerful protective compounds that benefit our skin.

Local foraging practices ensure these precious ingredients reach your skincare products at peak potency. The short distance from harvest to production preserves the active compounds, delivering maximum benefits to your skin.

The Newfoundland advantage includes:

• Small-batch production maintaining quality control.

• Higher than industry average active ingredients to deliver exceptionally quick results.

• Direct support of local communities and sustainable practices

The cold, clean waters and untouched wilderness of Newfoundland produce botanicals with higher concentrations of beneficial compounds compared to commercially grown alternatives. This natural potency translates to skincare products that work effectively with better results in a faster timeframe. Supporting local Newfoundland products means choosing products that respect both tradition and innovation while preserving the delicate ecosystems where these precious ingredients grow. Ingredients are pesticide free, commonly referred to as wild harvested or naturally organic.

Key Principles for Glowing Skin

Keep these fundamental guidelines in mind as you embark on your journey towards luminous skin:

• Start Small: Gradually incorporate the serum into your routine

• Stay Consistent: Use the serum daily for optimal results

• Be Patient: Give it 2-4 days to witness significant improvements

• Listen to Your Skin: Modify usage based on how your skin reacts, less for oily skin more for dry or dehydrated skin.

The secret behind that sought-after vacation glow isn't found in instant solutions or miracle products - it's rooted in commitment to a well-thought-out skincare regimen featuring high-quality, natural components. By opting for this Newfoundland-made serum, you're not only investing in your skin; you're also integrating Canada's natural beauty into your everyday ritual.

Ready to Revamp Your Skincare Routine?

Visit us in store or online at www.iscbeauty.ca or you can pick up Aurora Serum at Lawton’s Drugs Everyday Wellness Stores in the Atlantic.

FAQ’S

What are the benefits of using skincare serums over creams and oils?

Skincare serums are lightweight formulations that absorb quickly into the skin, allowing for effective delivery of active ingredients. They are designed to provide intense hydration and target specific skin concerns, making them an excellent addition to any skincare routine. Aurora Serum is safe for all skin types. It was ideally created for normal and combination skin.

Why should I choose ISC Beauty skincare products made in Newfoundland Canada?

Choosing our skincare products made in Newfoundland Canada means opting for locally sourced value added products made here. Supporting the provincial, regional and national economies. The ingredients we use are famously known for their potency and purity. ISC Beauty products embrace sustainability, create jobs at home, are based on successful research and development and deliver effective skincare solutions. ISC Beauty is a certified Cruelty Free brand by PETA. 96% of our formulas are also certified Vegan. Only our beeswax lip balms are not vegan. Our lip balms are made with organic beeswax from a small beekeeper in Ontario, Canada.

Morning Ritual

This ritual is so easy and pleasurable to do. Start your day with this 6 step process that you can complete in under 4 minutes with ease. Your skin is going to look and feel amazing, your friends will start complimenting you on how beautiful your skin looks and you will feel more happy with this calming ritual to start your day. The textures are sensorial, so gorgeous on the skin, they absorb completely leaving skin silky smooth and glowing.

This is the Sunrise Ritual To achieve the maximum improvement in your skin and and create the best morning ritual for you please follow the directions exactly.

Step 1 Cleanse with our zero waste bar, Aurora Facial Bar

Step 2 Tone The Aurora Mist which is the same pH as your skin is made from wild rose botanical water. Spritz throughour the day to refresh. Comes in a handy purse/travel size 40ml

Step 3 Serum

Step 4 Moisturize,

Step 5 Eye Cream

Step 6 Lip Repair Balm

The benefits go way beyond clean glowing skin. You are investing in you first thing as you prepare for your day. You deserve to have beautiful habits like this one so you feel amazing before you leave your bathroom. Here is how this ritual will change your life.

1 You are prioritizing you

2 Your new habit will have you feeling more calm and beautiful

3 You are protecting your skin’s largest organ, it is your protective shield, giving it hydrating TLC in the morning ensures that shield can protect you from everything from bacteria to nasty viruses.

4 You will develop the best new habit of 2024, it’s not difficult to focus on you for 4 minutes in the morning, and after 66 mornings you will have conquered adding a new habit to your day that elevates your life.

5 Pleasure is necessary in all areas of our lives, dive into this sensory experience to reset you on the daily.

Morning Self Care

Evening Ritual

A simple easy evening ritual to rebalance and restore yourself

1. Begin with a shower or bath, always cleanse your face first, shampoo, condition, body scrub and afterwards a cool or cold shower is a proven way to keep hair and skin healthy, the colder the better adn it helps you sleep better.

2. Apply face toning mist, serum and moisturizer while skin is damp, you use less and it absorbs better.

3. Apply a body oil and or body lotion, this decadent step is a must if you want silky smooth skin. A woman looking after herself in this way shows she has high standards.

4. Journal by reflecting on your day and plan tomorrow

5. Read for 10 minutes to relax

   • it is always a good idea to place devices like your phone, tablet or computer outside of your sleep area to prevent sleep disturbance.