Ever since I can remember I have been the person that friends call when they need someone to listen. I have spent countless hours consoling friends about boy issues, growing pains, and family problems. I have also been there to celebrate their victories, new relationships, and accomplishments. Looking back, I cherish those hours spent talking to friends as some of my most treasured memories- and all I had to do was listen!

Here are some of the ways I have learned to listen actively and effectively:

1. While talking to your friend, make sure to keep an open mind (and ear). Remember that everybody is different. This means that everyone sees situations from a different perspective based on different past experiences and insecurities. Instead of judging the situation based on your own experiences, ask your friend how she feels about the situation.

2. Reflect back to her what she is feeling. She will be relieved that someone understands her. She may not say exactly how she feels, so you have to listen for clues. For example if she says, “I hate that no one is ever home after school. I just sit in my room and don’t get to see anyone.” You could respond by saying, “it sounds like you feel lonely at home.” Be careful not to make assumptions about her feelings, but really listen to what she is telling you

3. Let her form her own answers and make her own decisions. Try to stay away from giving her direct advice. Again, this advice is what you would do in the situation and is not necessarily what is best for her. Instead, ask questions that help guide her to her own decisions.

Click here to Ask Allie a specific question or post a comment.

So we all know that moisturizers play a key role in a girl’s daily maintenance routine, specially in the winter! So it makes perfect sense that Greenies should try to use the greenest moisturizer possible, not only as the key to that healthy glow but to make sure that you’re not buying or ingesting any harmful chemicals!

Now, when buying moisturizers for your face and body beware of labels that say “organic”, “fragrance free” or “cruelty free” because even though it might say that on the bottle, unless it is actually “certified” you cant be sure that claim is true.

Since moisturizers usually come in plastic packaging, make sure what you buy is recyclable in your area (usually numbers 1 & 2 in the little triangle on the bottom of the bottle).

And finally, here are some tips taken from the Green Guide on keeping your skin moisturized and healthy during those long winter months!

Here are some easy tips to give green gifts this year:

1. Avoid super hot water; which dries out your skin, instead opt for warm water in the shower or bath.
2. Keep baths and showers brief.
3. Use a mild, natural soap.
4. Apply moisturizers immediately after bathing, while your skin is just towel dried.
5. Drink the recommended six to eight glasses of water a day, to keep moisturized from the inside out!