Simple Soothing Pleasures as Fall Turns to Winter

Are you smack dab in beautiful balmy weather? When can my dehydrated self join you at the beach? 🙂 Today’s ideas and finds for simple soothing pleasures as fall turns to winter just may bring a glimmer of sunshine (or a nugget or two of self-care) to aid your own journey through cold weather woes. Products my sensitive/aging skin loves along with comfy wearables and inspiring lifestyle glimpses are shared with quotes to pin, random smiles, and personal reflections from someone with chronic illness muddling through another December.

Beautiful handknit wool cableknit socks kicked up on dashboard with snowy woods outside - @woolsocool. #cozysocks
@woolsocool – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

Am I selling myself short with each mention of ‘muddling through?’ It doesn’t feel wrong. I like that it implies movement, and we’re always moving through something.

It describes my journey as I grow in a way that a bunch of #livingmybestlife hashies simply do not. Such motivational mantras may be earnest and aspirational, but they aren’t one size fits all.

The temperatures have been mild here (it may reach 50 degrees today!) for holiday season, but we can count on extreme weather to appear out of nowhere.

Winter wonderland woods in snow and cozy room with sherpa chairs - @theglampingland. #cozychristmas #snowywoods
@theglampingland – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

It seems that in order to move through the changes and challenges winter brings, it is best to get out in it (nature hikes and sporting) and be prepared (think hydration, indoor comforts, and travel plans).

Hello Lovely Christmas joy at my front door with holiday wreath and me and sis dressed in festive wear. #hellolovelystudio #christmasdecor #christmaswreath #christmasdoor
My favorite Christmastime companion…all we do is laugh!

Since I have autoimmune and chronic illness issues, there are extra challenges. Changes in barometric pressure are brutal and trigger ocular migraine issues which affect my sleep and daily well-being. Thank goodness my best friend (pictured above) understands since she has them at the same time thanks to our surgical menopause synchronicity.

Access to fresh produce dwindles which can affect nutrition, and the lack of sunshine and humidity?

Rustic European country interior by Desiree Ashworth Design (Beljar Home). #beljarhome #desireeashworthdesign
Beljar Home

All sorts of unpleasantries seem to follow. My already vulnerable skin needs extra attention.

Winter cozy snowflake decorations in window - @fjordfiskerenhjem. #scandichristmas
@fjordfiskerenhjem – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

Pampering it is no longer about vain attempts to preserve a youthful appearance. Rather, it is an important step to taking good care of my organs.

Heart shaped snow sculpture - #wildflowers_and_stilllife. #cozywinter
@wildflowers_and_stilllife – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

I independently selected products in this post—if you buy from one of my links, I may earn a commission.

Mindfully Kind Skin Care

My aging, rosacea-prone, sensitive skin needs all the help it can get in every season, but winter brings extra harshness.

Michele of Hello Lovely Studio at historic stone bridge in white jacket with balloon sleeves. #hellolovelystudio
Hello Lovely

Does it appear I am always trying new remedies and adding to my collection of soothing potions?

Michele of Hello Lovely Studio

For me, having a range of tried and true healthy options to prevent and treat issues with hydration, hyperpigmentation, damage and texture is a smart response to dermatological changes.

In fact, I have learned from my autoimmune journey, that too much of anything in diet and lifestyle causes my systems to get defensive.

Heartwarming tweet from @jeremycshipp comparing you to a scholastic book fair - Hello Lovely. #lovequote #encouragementquote

Don’t even get me started about the avocado drama of 2018. A varied diet of healthy ingredients from quality sources for my skin seems to agree as much as the one for my overall health.

And I’m learning not to deprive myself in a very restricted sort of way…that can lead to overdoing it! Tastes of the season take on a new meaning.

Hello Lovely g-free brownies with bittersweet chocolate glaze (Congo Tropicals organic dark chocolate from Costa Rica). #gfreebaking #organicchocolate #darkchocolatebrownies

Made these g-free brownies today and glazed them with…

Hello Lovely g-free brownies with bittersweet chocolate glaze (Congo Tropicals organic dark chocolate from Costa Rica). #gfreebaking #organicchocolate #darkchocolatebrownies

a few squares of this organic chocolate from Costa Rica packed with antioxidants:

Congo Tropicals organic dark chocolate (70%) from Costa Rica. #organicchocolate
Congo Tropicals Organic Dark Chocolate – tap for buying info

Here are more little indulgences (other than the coffee, just tastes for me!).

Here’s what is tried and true in my medicine cabinet, along with a few new goodies my skin is loving.

Skin Care Routine

Jenni Kayne’s Oak Essentials line is made with ingredients that agree with my skin.

If you are reactive to coconut oil, you may not be a fan. It’s important to notice whether particular ingredients are not for you. But I love me some healing coconut oil for skin and what’s under my skin. (I bake with coconut oil since it is a fat more easily digestible with my pancreatic insufficiency.)

Inspirational quote about aging on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #gertrudestein #inspirationalquotes #aging #encouragement

Something I just sampled and want more of is made by a lesser known brand that creates small batches of balmy goodness with consciously-chosen natural ingredients:

There’s something magical about feeling close to the sea in the middle of winter (and even the land-locked prairie far from my happy place in Haleiwa!), and this brand understands that. Try their nourishing lip balm too for a sensual beachy keen experience and happy lips. I like this flavor:

When I can’t stand the texture of my skin, I know I need a powerful active. If retinol is on your radar, you may have noticed there are tons of choices. For a decade, I have stuck with this one: Skinceuticals 1.0 Retinol (a STRONG formula with 1.0…so go easy, child!) because it is powerful and does every dang thing it says it will. A benefit of winter is worrying a bit less about skin’s photosensitivity while using retinol.

Thoughts on Aging Skin

We can all benefit from checking our emotional response to the word ‘aging.’

Funny quote about midlife on Hello Lovely Studio. #funnyquotes #humorquotes
Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter as well as Inspirational Quotes to Pin

After all, from the moment we are born, all of our organs (including our skin) begin aging. Infants age, and even though memories of being 16 may be rosy, our skin was aging back then too.

Tender wish of encouragement on Hello Lovely Studio.

Aging isn’t this sudden sorrowful decline after we turn 35. It truly is a natural process as we progress through seasons of life. Just look at the fading rose, the autumn maple leaf, or the fruit ripening on the vine. My thoughts about death have evolved too. It is losing its sting as I lose friends. Not just because of the longing to someday reunite, but because I imagine death meeting me with the loving arms of a mother. Why do we routinely link all things associated with mystery to darkness and sharp edges?

A More Flexible Approach to Caring for My Aging Skin

I don’t have the energy for Vogue youTube-esque celebrity tutorials with 75 products and steps before bed.

Close up photo of Michele of Hello Lovely Studio at piano with sister - photo by Melissa James.

I prefer to take things day to day since my health concerns, the weather, and amount of sleep all affect the needs of my sensitive skin.

I have several hydrating, serum, and cleansing options and have learned to assess when I need a little more of this or a bit less of that. All of these goodies above are on the shelf. Plus, my number one pick for an allover blast of moisture and comfort?

BOOMSilk, Boom by Cindy Joseph moisturizer with beeswax and honey. #over50skincare #matureskincare
tap image for buying info

I can’t say enough good things about BOOMSilk for ultimate relief that is still priced so fairly! What else can you say that about in the 2020s?

Another shout out to a new to me brand–Iris & Romeo. Everything I have tried has been lovely. For example, their Weekend Skin (on board above). It is more than sunscreen since it’s also a Vitamin C source and primer for makeup. Weekend Skin comes in two options, and I just tried Warm Glow and love it even more than Universal!

Fashion Finds

Rousseau Enamel Cuff bracelet, Rifle Paper Co. #riflepaperco #rousseau
Enamel Cuff (Rousseau), Rifle Paper Co – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter
Mayfair Chelsea Lug Boot, Rifle Paper Co.
Mayfair Chelsea Lug Boot, Rifle Paper Co

Winter Neckwear Goodness

Oh, LE GOBBLE factor!

While I’m not embarrassed about age or the age I appear, the right pieces will direct attention where I want it. J. Crew’s tissue turtlenecks do that for me. “Tissue” means they feel like the softest t-shirt and can be layered easily. I have a stack of ’em, striped ones are my favs, and I’m wearing one this very moment.

j.crew: tissue turtleneck t-shirt in stripes
Tissue Turtleneck in Stripes – Simple Soothing Pleasures for Winter

If you care to score a youthful look, layer this over a fun tissue turtleneck, wear a headband or ponytail and this bronzer, and get yer #oldmoneyKatherineHepburn effortless casual look ON like Donkey Kong…

But wait, Michele. We like where you’re going with a classic casual yet classic Katherine Hepburn style, but what about flattering eyeglasses?

Tap HERE to choose your styles to try on for free!

Favorite Black Bottoms

When you are after organic cotton and fair trade certified clothing:

Should you be serious about smoothing and extra support…

In case you’re curious about superior stretch Lycra power and a high waist…

j.crew high-rise black leggins for women. #blackleggings
Leggings, J. Crew

Socks I Can’t Live Without in Winter

Welly boot socks are my best friends in winter, and I wear them over bare feet around the house. If I have to step outside (it’s pouring out there as I type this), I step into Ilse Jacobsen lace up rain boots (I prefer the shorter styles to the tall).

I finally replaced my crossbody bag. I’m still attached to this brand and have yet to grow bored with flight bags.

Day and Night Pajamawear

Michele of Hello Lovely Studio
Oh hi!

If you have been hangin’ out on this blog for any length of time then you know I’m a pajamanista. This style is still my reigning favorite:

Wisdom quote about what money can't buy on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #wisdomquotes #inspirationalquote
Michele of Hello Lovely Studio in Domi babydoll pajamas.
Kindness inspirational quote on Hello Lovely Studio: kindness does wonderful things to a face. #inspirationalquotes #quotes #kindnessquote #kindness

Shower as Spa Retreat

I discovered Tocca’s Cleopatra body wash years ago at the Elysian Spa in Chicago. It was not only in the luxurious showers but was also used as hand soap at every sink. The grapefruit and cucumber combination is completely irresistible, and who knew handwashing could feel this luxurious?

Tocca Cleopatra Body Wash
Tocca Cleopatra Body Wash – Over 50 Daily Beauty: Gentle Rhythms for Skin, Makeup & Hair As Well As Quotes to Pin and Outfit Ideas.

Daily Hair Favs

Hello Lovely Studio - come discover Over 50 Daily Beauty: Gentle Rhythms for Skin, Makeup & Hair As Well As Quotes to Pin and Outfit Ideas.
A good hair day – Hello Lovely
Funny quote about house plants on Hello Lovely Studio. #quotes #funnyquote #humor #plants

AVEDA’s Cherry Almond Line

If you have used AVEDA since the ’80s like me, then you may remember the yum of their cherry almond line which they brought back. Also a fan of the fragrance of their Shampure line which was reformulated to be more hydrating.

AVEDA cherry almond softening shampoo - come discover Over 50 Daily Beauty: Gentle Rhythms for Skin, Makeup & Hair As Well As Quotes to Pin and Outfit Ideas.
Cherry Almond Softening Shampoo, AVEDA…certainly fragrant indeed.

Cherry Almond products are so delicious that I’m craving something yummy and sweet!

Over 50 hair and chemically processed hair can be fragile and require extra TLC. Here is a leave-in treatment for dry ends prone to split. Organic bergamot, mandarin, ylang ylang and more plant essences impart their pure loveliness.

AVEDA Damage remedy daily hair repair - come discover Over 50 Daily Beauty: Gentle Rhythms for Skin, Makeup & Hair As Well As Quotes to Pin and Outfit Ideas.
AVEDA Damage Remedy…certainly effective indeed.

Gamechanging Favorite Blush

I can’t stop re-purchasing this cheek and lip color (in shade Werk) from MILK. It’s very sheer and looks equally good on my eyelids which surprises me. I think certain pinks are tricky to wear on the eyes, but this one imparts a feeling of health.

MILK MAKEUP - Lip + Cheek Clean at Sephora
SAVE: Milk Makeup Cheek + Lip (Werk is my favorite shade!)

Pro SHOWS Us Exactly How We Apply Makeup the Wrong Way

So helpful, and I learned so much about how to correct my color application!

Managing Winter on the Health Journey

Since I have Raynaud’s, it’s tricky to not be triggered by cold temperatures.

Inspirational quote - Hello Lovely Studio.

There have been a few painful episodes, and they happen when there are dramatic shifts in weather, not necessarily when it’s below zero.

Funny quote with humor on Hello Lovely Studio.

I have to get extra intentional about my diet in winter. If I simply listen to cravings, it’s carb loading every single day!

Funny quote and life humor on Hello Lovely Studio. #funnyquotes #humorquote #sillyquotes

I find that healthy soups, adding fresh spinach to just about everything, homemade green juice smoothies, and lots of acai bowls with various toppings helps.

Inspirational Ann Voskamp faith quote relevant for Christmas on Hello Lovely Studio. #annvoskamp #faithquotes #christmasquotes #christianity #gratitudequotes #thanksgiving

Holiday gatherings are not what they used to be for me since I am such a foodie and food was always at the center of them.

Funny quote and life humor on Hello Lovely Studio. #funnyquotes #humorquote #sillyquotes

Now I am mindful about eating something healthy before confronting the spread of options that could lead to days of recovery!

Funny Christmas humor and holiday quote. #quotes #funnyquote #christmas #humor

And of course I skip alcohol since I want to give my pancreas all the help it deserves.

Inspirational Ann Voskamp faith quote relevant for Christmas on Hello Lovely Studio. #annvoskamp #faithquotes #christmasquotes #christianity

I’m getting a little better about enjoying little tastes of things rather than gobbling the whole enchilada.

Inspirational quote and faith quote by Michele of Hello Lovely Studio. #faithquote #hellolovelystudio #contemplativequote #contemplativespirituality #spirituality

Truth be told, my appetite has always been huge, and I have much more in common with folks who struggle with overeating than people who eat in an organized manner.

Inspirational Ann Voskamp faith quote relevant for Christmas on Hello Lovely Studio. #annvoskamp #faithquotes #christmasquotes #christianity

Wait. There ARE folks whose eating is not disordered, right? Because once you get people honestly dishing about food issues, it becomes unclear.

Serene breakfast dining with round table and slope arm chairs from RH in Belgian linen (Sand) - Hello Lovely Studio.

I wrote this about permission to relax in case you could use it about now during holiday season. Thanks so much for entertaining all of this and bringing a spirit of tenderness here.

Peace to you right where you are.

-michele

Thanks for shopping RIGHT HERE to keep decor inspiration flowing on Hello Lovely!

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6 Comments

  1. Amy
    December 10, 2023 / 11:39 pm

    Such an encouraging post…I relate to all the things you share! So much great info…I will need to read and reread several more times!! I still want to try Oak Essentials. A skincare line I’ve have been loving for a couple years now is Charlis…check it out, Michele…I think you might like it too! It just FEELS so good on my skin the moment I put it on…everytime! I especially love the spray mist toner…ahhhh…sooo refreshing …like a little pick-me-up …and it’s all toxic free! Thanks for all your recommendations!! I especially LOVE your last quote by YOU! LOVE’s kingdom truly is upside-down (& backwards!)…I’ve always said the same…but what an encouragement that truly is!!

    • Michele
      Author
      December 11, 2023 / 11:32 am

      You know I love my skin care potions so I will definitely try Charlis! Thank you for the suggestion. 🙂 An upside down kingdom helps me with perspective at times when the mystery is so overwhelming. I am strangely comforted by the thought that even when I seem to be getting it wrong, I can still get it right. That in my weakness, something else is happening that is growing my strength. So much paradox, and I’m presently clinging to the elegant simplicity in every realm of this masterfully created universe. I need not exhaust my intellect with understanding the mechanics when I am called to surrender to joy. 🙂

  2. Amy
    December 11, 2023 / 11:24 pm

    Amen! Amen!!

    • Michele
      Author
      December 12, 2023 / 11:43 am

      And Hallelujah 🙂

  3. Amy
    December 11, 2023 / 11:34 pm

    Also…fyi Charlis offers 50% off their skincare multiple times each year…I’ve never paid more than that for it!!

    • Michele
      Author
      December 12, 2023 / 11:42 am

      Awesome. Thank you!

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White Slipcovered Sofa
SHOP MY HOME!
29″ Whitewashed Table Lamp Set of 2
White Matelasse Quilt on MY BED
SHOP MY BATH!
Trees White Wallpaper Mural
Round Farmhouse Table
Myla Slipcover Sofa
Deconstructed Wingback Bed
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Milagro Heart
Slipcovered Dining Chair
Rustic Farmhouse Stool
Edgecombe End Table
Parisian Style Iron Table Lamp  33.5″
Black or Bronze Accent Table
French Stripe Basket Set
White Cotton Crochet Bed Skirt
French Country Rattan Basket Set
Marble Subway Mosaic Tile
Rattan Basket With Lid
White Ruffle Bedding
Seagrass Basket Set
Schumacher Wild Things Wallpaper
Slipcovered Sofa
Upholstered Dining Arm Chair
Shop My Breakfast Nook
White Matelasse Quilt
Tree Mural Wallpaper
Faux Potted French Lavender
Shaw Daybed
Distressed White French Country Chandelier
French Country Headboard
Oval Back Counter Stool, Set of 2
Antique Brass Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Round French Tufted Ottoman
Kinston Wood Bench
Italian Candelabra Chandelier
Slipcovered Linen Chair
Warner Upholstered Bench
Rustic Country French Dresser
Laurel Wreath Mirror
Round Farmhouse Dining Table
Reclaimed Wood Dresser
Louis Upholstered Bench
Pardon My French Doormat
Stripe Turkish Towel Throw
Pamela Arm Chair
Sweater Weave Basket
French Carved Wood Chandelier
Terracotta Pots & Basket
French Country Wood Chandelier
French Linen Dining Chair
Gustavian Cabinet
French Farmhouse Dining Table
Bar Stool
Beachy White Slipcovered Sofa
Rattan Armchair
Diptyque Oyedo Candle
Cross Back Dining Chair
French Country Candle Holder
French Industrial Metal Chairs (4)
Designer Favorite Wall Mirror
Holborn Lantern Pendant
French Country 6-Light Chandelier
Tray Side Table
French Country Upholstered Arm Chair
Wicker Trunk Set
French Ticking Stripe Pillow
Jute Area Rug
Mohair Throw
Rustic Industrial Farmhouse Shelves
Belgian Linen Sofa
White Duvet & Bedding
Rustic Wood Candlestick Set
French Market Basket
Linen Modern Wing Chair
French Country Farmhouse Baskets
Concrete Pillar Table Lamp
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Style Lamp
Kendall Skirted Dining Chair
White Charleston Sofa
Scrubbed Wood 5-Light Chandelier
Arched Champagne Wall Mirror
Moravian Star 1-Light Pendant
Highback Armchair
Mini Pendant Light
White Vase Set
Round Woven Placemat Set
Cashmere Throw With Fringe
Wreath Doormat
Fireclay Farm Sink (Reinhard, 30″)
White Waffle Coverlet
Light Grey Vienna Quilt
Boheme Madera Bench
Belgian Linen Duvet Set
Round Marble Side Table
Rustic Pedestal Farm Table
Rattan Hanging Chair Swing