• January 2022
  • Carolyn Barber

Carolyn's
January Picks

When the season of over-indulgence comes to an end, I like to kick off the start of the year with a fresh start. Two of my New Year’s Resolutions are to begin my morning routine with only one cup of coffee and reading a few pages from the self-help book, You Are a Badass Every Day by Jen Sincero. This motivating book gives me quick tips to help stay focused and the confidence to seize the day.  

 

Having a sweet tooth is one of my major weaknesses, so being mindful of my sugar intake is also top on my priority list. I have homemade energy balls readily available for when the craving hits. Made with flaxseed meal from Traders Joe’s, rolled oats, honey, peanut butter, and mini chocolate chips, just one of these tasty treats gives me the energy to get through the day. Take a peek at my recipe:

 

Carolyn’s Energy Balls:
(Serving: approx. 12)
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup flaxseed meal
½ cup peanut butter (I’m a chunky peanut butter fan)
⅓ cup honey or agave* 
½ cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup shredded coconut
Combine all together in a large bowl and form into 1-inch balls. (I prefer to use a cookie scoop for this.) Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. Enjoy!

*Please note: you may need to add more honey/agave to the batch if you include more dry ingredients such as Chia or sunflower seeds. 

 

Here in the Northeast, the cold Winter weather can really wreak havoc on our skin. Because exfoliating removes dead skin on the epidermis, not only does it leave the surface smooth and refreshed, but it is extremely helpful for moisture absorption. Pamper yourself twice a week with my two essentials: Malin + Goetz Jojoba Exfoliating Cleanser a rich creamy cleanser that gently buffs away dullness with finely ground jojoba seeds and Aesop Redemption Body Scrub, a finely milled blend of pumice and aromatic botanicals that leaves you feeling baby soft.  If your skin is more on the sensitive side, you might want to skip manual exfoliation altogether. Consider following up your shower or bath with a soothing body lotion made with salicylic acid.