Be Good To Yourself: 5 Ways To Enhance Your Life As A Stylist

At FHI Heat, we value our stylists as much as we value your business. And we know that although you love your job, there are times when you just need a break from it all. Especially after the last year (and trust us we know you are not quite out of the woods yet), we understand that stylists around the country need a little extra TLC. So how do you take care of yourself when you spend all day taking care of others? We’re not saying it is easy, but we are saying that it is imperative! Take a minute to read up on the latest trends to see what stylists are doing to take care of themselves these days.

Take mini-vacations during the work day

Some people think that in order to get a break from the endless customers and cuts, that they have to physically leave the salon. But that is not the case. You can’t work like a robot for the entirety of your shift and then expect to relax and recover once you are home. Consider the mind/body connection while you are working, and you will be able to take mini-breaks throughout the day that keep you refreshed and recharged.

• Take stretch breaks: Concentrate on your lower back, your shoulders and your arms, and give yourself a few minutes to stretch whenever you can.
• Stay well-hydrated: Drinking water keeps your body running smoothly, so try for your 8 cups a day. In particular, water helps cushion your joints, and since you are on your feet all day, that will help immensely.
• Put your feet up: Speaking of being on your feet all day, any chance you get to put your feet up will be a welcome respite. You might not think that 5 minutes will matter, but it sure will to your tired legs!
• Breathe/meditate/visualize: While you put your feet up, take a few minutes to close your eyes and breathe. In the salon you can get so tense and busy, but if you take a minute to calm your body, your heart rate will drop and you will be ready for the next client.

Take actual Vacations

It’s important to take some time off, but we understand that when a stylist isn’t at the chair, they aren’t making money. That is, unless they’ve discovered a side hustle that allows them to make money off the clock. We are talking about the FHI Heat Pro Commission Program. If you haven’t already signed up, take this opportunity to make a commission on FHI Heat sales you make to your friends and social media followers. It might be as simple as posting a tutorial video and selling one of the FHI Heat tools. Once it’s posted, you don’t have much work to do aside from waiting for the cash to roll in! It’s the perfect way to enjoy some stress-free time off. 

Use the right tools

Let’s face it: salon fatigue is real. And besides helping your body achieve rest during your long days in the salon, the tools you use make a difference. If you are using powerful ergonomic tools on your clients that cut drying and styling times because they are so well-made, then that is less time for you and your hands to be working. 

Kore Stone Stainless Steel Shears

Our STONE shears are ergonomically designed for comfort, and with their sword edge and ability to cut tight angles, they will make the job of cutting hair all day much more comfortable on your hands and arms. Using the right tool for the job will save your energy.

Pro Series Digital Dual Voltage Hair Dryer

This Black Diamond ceramic dryer creates an abundance of negative ions which reduces drying time by 50%, and takes the frizz and static out of your clients’ hair. Add the reduced drying time to the ergonomic design which makes it easier to hold, and your work itself will become easier.

Take care of your body

When you are at home, taking care of your body will go a long way to making you feel more refreshed and energized on the job.

• Eat and drink for health: The healthier your food, the better you will be able to withstand those long shifts. Avoid high fat and high sugar foods, which quickly cause you to crash. Fruits and vegetables will fuel your body the right way, and also give you a jump start on all the water you need to drink.
• Sleep: What your mom said is true. Get 8 hours of sleep and your whole body will work better. You will also be able to handle the stress of the salon more easily.
• Exercise: As for exercise, do what you like to do and you will be more likely to do it. Yoga, running, cycling, dancing: all of these activities will get your heart pumping and keep you healthy for your long days on your feet.

Take care of your mind and spirit

No, you do not have to be a yogi on a mountain top to reap the benefits of a clear mind. There are several ways that you can take care of yourself that will leave you relaxed and focused when you head back for your next shift, 

• Meditate/journal: If you end up feeling stressed after work and can’t seem to settle down, journaling about it is helpful. When you write things down you release their power over you. The same goes for meditation. Releasing your breath while meditating will release your tensions and worries.
• Find a hobby: From gardening to book club to cooking healthy foods, find a hobby that will get your mind off the salon and give you something to enjoy outside of work.
• Phone a friend: Never underestimate the power of good connections. Take time to talk to or hang out with one of your pals, and you will be more rested and happy when it is time to start your next shift.

Whether at work or play, it is the little things that matter, and taking a few minutes for yourself no matter what kind of chaos is swirling around you will keep you rested and refreshed for the job at hand.