In a past issue of RUSSH, I speak about beauty, luminous skin and the importance of managing lifestyle factors like stress before turning to quick fix skincare solutions. Looking at your lifestyle is the first step, next is introducing ingredients to your diet to support your lifestyle, energy and help you find your glow.

If stress is present - and for most of us, it is - integrating ingredients rich in antioxidants is a wonderful way to support and reduce the oxidative effects of stress on our cells and skin. Cacao and matcha are incredibly rich in these antioxidants; try them as a mid-morning or mid-afternoon snack in a stress-fighting smoothie.

To relieve stress we should also turn to rest, but unless we are fuelling our bodies with the right ingredients, this can be challenging. Try the combination of chamomile, oats, cherries and almonds in the sleep smoothie to calm the body.

Finally, radiant skin comes with good hydration. Fruits and vegetables are full of water, naturally enriched with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants and fibre. Drink a hydrating smoothie to up the ante on your daily H2O.

"Looking at your lifestyle is the first step, next is introducing ingredients to help you find your glow."

Stress-Fighting Smoothie

Serves 1

1/2 banana
1 tablespoon cacao powder
1 cup almond milk
1 teaspoon macadamia oil
1/2 teaspoon matcha powder

 Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Sleep Smoothie

Serves 1

1 cup brewed chamomile tea
1/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup pitted cherries
2 teaspoons almond butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Hydrating Smoothie

Serves 1

1 small kale leaf, stem removed and leaves shredded
1 (150g) small cucumber, roughly chopped
1/2 (70g) green apple, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice (juice of half a lime)
1/4 cup packed mint leaves
2 teaspoons chia seeds
1 cup coconut water

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.