Brrr is the word! As I’m sure your lips and elbows are telling you, winter’s elements have started to take a toll on our bodies. Since it’s too cold to get to ze spa, bring the spa home!
Here are some simple “recipes” to spoil yourself:
Sea Salt & Rosemary Oil Body Scrub
This is ideal for winter skin as it becomes dry; the sea salt exfoliates the skin’s surface and rids it of dead cells whilst the rosemary acts as a tonic invigorating and increasing blood flow.
What you need:
1/2 cup coarse sea salt
1/4 cup rosemary oil (click here for a video tutorial on making your own rosemary oil—much cheaper than buying it pre-made… but it takes six weeks, so get started now!)
body-scrub tool
Take the body scrub tool and dip it into the oil then into the coarse salt. In a circular motion, rub over skin and pay particular attention to rough spots like elbow, knees and heels. Rinse off with warm water, pat dry and moisturize.
TIP! Get your partner involved to help you with your back.
Did you know?? Rosemary is commonly used in inhalations for nasal congestion it helps to revive and clear the mind.
Herbal Baths
Take a cue from our European friends and get to know your bathtub! Us Americans are always in a rush to take a shower and go. S L O W down and linger. Consider this after a long day at the office and create ambiance in your bathroom… Turn off the lights and put the candles on. Pour yourself a big glass of vino and upgrade from bubble bath to a CITRUS AND MILK BATH:
1 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup orange peels
1/4 cup lemon peels
4 drops lavender essential oil (can get at any health food store or Whole Foods).
Draw a warm bath and slowly add the coconut milk, orange, and lemon peels with the lavender oil.
Soak for 20 minutes. Pat dry and moisturize.
The combination of coconut milk, which absorbs easily and moisturizes the skin, the refreshing citrus scent, and the stimulating yet relaxing properties of lavender will guarantee you a wonderful night’s sleep.
TIP! Perhaps before you get in the bath you want to do this quick skin-tightening mask:
Puree a ripe apple with a teaspoon of honey. Apply to face and neck and leave on for 5-10 minutes. Rinse off thoroughly whilst in the bath—after you’re done with bathing be sure to splash your face with come cool water and moisturize.
Do YOU have any fun at home spa secrets to share? Tell us in the comments section below!
