Tips for Looking and Feeling Joyful

Karen Caldwell Designs
Karen Caldwell Designs

The hectic holiday season can put stress on both mind and body. Kristi Dowler of YyAyr Fitness recommends relaxing and revitalizing with exercises that focus on breathing and movement. If you just can’t get to the gym, take three minutes and make an effort to center yourself with this simple breathing exercise:

1. Lie on your back and place one hand on your stomach and one hand on your chest
2. Take a deep breath and let it fill your lungs, then your stomach
3. Exhale and empty the breath from your stomach, and then your lungs
Repeat for three minutes for relaxation and rejuvenation.

When it comes to fashion, stylist Sandy Mandel suggests making a cheerful statement with your wardrobe by mixing textures and adding splashes of bold color. Clothing designer Karen Caldwell, who recently launched her namesake collection, agrees. Karen says, “Bright colors often remind me of special occasions, so I add a dash of color with gloves or a handbag to an otherwise simple outfit. Even if you wear all black, add a dash of something memorable.”