Unwind and Rejuvenate at Home with These Relaxation and Self Care Tips
It’s not always easy – or even possible – to relax when the worries of the world are overwhelming you. We all know that things like meditation and mindfulness practices can change our mood, but embarking on a brand-new healthcare journey may be more than you can handle right now.
If you’re feeling the weight of the world pressing down on you, we feel you! And we thought we’d share some of our favorite relaxation and self care techniques since they can be done in your own home without spending a dime.
Turn Your Shower into an Aromatherapy Chamber
Of all the places in your home where you can gain a few minutes of solitude and silence, your shower is the best. Warm water relaxes tense muscles, and adding a bundle of fragrant lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, or peppermint sprigs can feel like an in-home spa experience. Lavender’s relaxation benefits are well documented, and eucalyptus and rosemary can help you think more clearly and even improve your mood. If you’re feeling nervous – and, frankly, we all are right now – peppermint can help. Simply tie a bundle of fresh greenery together with a piece of string or wire (garbage bag twist ties also work) and hang it from your shower head. Let the water run for a few moments before stepping in, so the steam will draw out the greenery’s natural essential oils.
Tip: Try this before bed for a more restful night’s sleep.
Soothe Stressed Skin with a DIY Sheet Mask
If you have cotton pads, like the kind used to remove eye makeup, and a watery skincare product, you can make your very own sheet mask. The best cotton pads for this technique separate into thin layers, but you can also use peel-apart cleansing squares from your first aid cabinet. Soak the cotton pads in your favorite watery toner or facial mist, and then apply them to the dry areas of your face. Rest for 5–10 minutes while they work their magic then remove them and pat in the remaining moisture.
Tip: These are especially soothing if you’ve been blowing your nose a lot.
Relax, Regroup, and Revitalize with One Simple Yoga Pose
You already know about the benefits of yoga and meditation, but there’s one simple pose that can really calm your nerves while relaxing your body. You don’t need a book, DVD, or even a YouTube video to master it (but this visual aid is worth clicking on). Viparita Karani, also known as “Legs-Up-The-Wall,” improves circulation, reduces swelling in your lower extremities, and just generally feels amazing. Simply lay on the floor and extend your legs against the wall. Put a pillow, rolled-up towel, or blanket under your neck or lower back if you need one, and rest for at least five minutes. Close your eyes and breathe slowly as the tension in your ankles, calves, knees, and thighs melts away.
Tip: This pose is good for everyone in your family, although you may want to practice it by yourself just to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Thanks for spending a few minutes with us today. We wish you and your loved ones peace, serenity, and good health.
Sincerely,
Your friends at Epicuren Discovery