Did I brush my teeth today? I wonder as I fire up my laptop for another day of working at home. As I sip my coffee and reply to the latest emails, I become increasingly aware of my unwashed hair, but since there’s no one to see it, what’s the harm in leaving it just one more day? Then again, I do have that important Zoom meeting at 2 pm. I should probably look a little more presentable for that. Surely some muted lighting will help hide the tired, dark circles under my eyes. And there’s nothing that a high ponytail can’t solve.

As each day melts into the next during social isolation, it’s easy to neglect even the most basic self-care rituals. I was never a high maintenance gal to begin with, but I feel myself slipping even further into lazy habits. The problem is, once you start wearing your pyjamas around all day, the malaise can trickle into other areas of your life.

Beauty isn’t just about the superficial. How you feel about your appearance can have a strong negative impact on productivity and energy. You might stop video chatting with your family and friends because you “don’t look good right now.” You’ll probably skip that afternoon walk worried because your hair is frizzy and your grey roots are showing. And now that you’re in your pyjamas – so soft and warm –  a little nap couldn’t hurt. But once you’re in that cozy bed, it’s oh-so-hard to get back up again.

So what can we do to feel better in these challenging times? How can we create a realistic and manageable beauty routine while being kind to ourselves?

If you are looking for beauty inspiration, Vaughan Public Libraries has you covered on several free digital platforms available with your library card – from DIY soap making tutorials on Creativebug – to digital lifestyle magazines on RBdigital –  to an amazing assortment of beauty ebooks on Hoopla.

What better way to begin then with some gentle pampering? Try making these homemade bath bombs from Creativebug, light a candle, and luxuriate in the simple indulgence of a peaceful bath. Set the tone for relaxation with Naxos Music Library and enjoy over 1.6 million streaming audio tracks of classical music, jazz, world, and folk music.

On RBdigital Magazines you can access the latest editions of Elle Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Marie Claire for helpful articles on trends and tips for women’s fashion, beauty, and shopping. Of course, beauty isn’t only a woman’s domain. Men’s fashion and lifestyle magazines like GQ and Esquire are also instantly available.

Want to dive deeper into the world of beauty? Hoopla has you covered with an incredibly diverse selection of beauty ebooks covering everything from badass braids and essential oils to beauty secrets, healthful habits, and self-acceptance. I’m feeling inspired just looking at Eat Pretty Every Day: 365 Daily Inspirations for Nourishing Beauty by Jolene Hart and Silver Hair by Lorraine Massey, a handbook for saying goodbye to the dye and letting your natural light shine. And now is undoubtedly the perfect time to grow your beard, but don’t forget to do it in style. For simple routines for beautiful glowing skin every day, try Fresh Face by Mandi Nyambi.

If you don’t already have a library card, you can now apply online for a temporary library card. The library card number that you will receive by email will allow you to borrow eBooks, eAudiobooks, and access exciting digital resources.

So while we are all struggling to cope during these challenging times, let’s remember to take a timeout from fixating on an unknown future, and give our self-esteem a much-needed boost. Now could be the perfect time to perfect a sultry cat-eye, try a homemade skin-care treatment or experiment with a fun manicure. Reconnect with your body, show off the results to family and friends, and stay safe.