In this economy, it's
pretty difficult to afford one's usual beauty regime. But have no fear! I have
come up with a list of at home rituals you can perform to refresh and energize
yourself, without the guilt of expensive spas or salons. Plus, most of the ingredients
list here are probably already in your kitchen.
* Dry, itchy skin on hands? Mix together some sea
salt and olive oil in a bowl. Be sure to pour the salt first, than the olive
oil, it'll be easier to mix together. Scrub it into your hands (but do not be
harsh!), and then rinse off with warm water.
* Dry skin on face? Throw 1 avocado and 1/4 cup of
honey into a blender and mix away! Slather it all over your face and let sit
for 20-30 minutes, then wash off with warm water. The avocado works as a
natural moisturizer and an excellent source of Vitamin E, while the honey is a
gentle astringent. Honey is like a magic ingredient, it’s moisturizing, refines
pores, tightens skin, anti-wrinkle, and anti-blemish! Just be sure to BLEND, as
that makes it into a firm paste that sits well on your face.
* Oily skin? If you're skin is breaking out, apply
freshly squeezed lemon juice with a q-tip or a cotton ball. The citrus of the
lemon is pure Vitamin C which helps to brighten the skins and tighten the pores
and will act as a toner.
* Dark circles under your eyes? Sleep can sometimes
feel like a luxury, however depriving yourself of sleep throws off your body's
entire physical and mental equilibrium. To diminish dark circles, cover the
eyes with slices of raw potato or raw cucumber.
* Stomach bloating? If you feel like your body is in
need of a good, natural detox, simply drink a class of warm water with a
freshly squeezed lemon every morning and night. Try to resist simple
carbohydrates, sugars, heavy dairy, and grease and stick to lean protein,
fiber, fresh fruits and vegetables for as long as you can, to aid in the detox
process.
* Bad mood? Fill up your bath tub with whatever
temperature of water you prefer. You can put in a cup of sea salt for dry skin,
a cup of oatmeal for itchy skin, or bubbles simply for fun! (For a while I was
too lazy to purchase bath bubbles, so I used the mini shampoos found in
hotels!) Light some deliciously scented candles, play music music (try playing
classical, or even a “sounds of the ocean” track), and simply submerge yourself
and RELAX!
* Mood swings, headache, and fatigue? Drink more
water! Chances are these are all attempts in your body informing you that you
are dehydrated. You should drink around 2 liters of water a day, more if you
live an active lifestyle.
Loving vibes & virtual kisses,
Michelle
Michelle is a Student at FIDM and she blogs about her experience on FIDM.edu. You can read her blog here.
