Make a Lavender Face Mist for an Easy Mood-Boost

Facial mists are a great way add some aromatherapy to your day. They are easy to make and you can make them in a variety of scents, depending on the aromatherapy benefits you desire.

Lavender is a great tension-tamer! The scent of lavender can help to alleviate stress-related headaches, fatigue, insomnia, and even anxiety. It has also been shown to boost mood and relieve depression.

Treat yourself to this gentle mist whenever you need a pick-me-up and some freshness in your day.

You'll need:

• A small, empty spray bottle (1-3 oz., found at drugstores)
• Lavender essential oil (organic, if possible!)
• Clean, filtered water

To make the mist:

1. Fill the spray bottle 4/5 of the way with cool, fresh, filtered water. Depending on the size of the bottle, you may need to use a funnel so it doesn't spill.
2. Add 5 drops of the lavender essential oil. Replace the spray bottle cap and shake.
3. Close your eyes, and, holding the spray bottle about six inches away from your face, spray the mist 2-3 times.

Inhale the fragrance of the lavender and allow it to soothe your mind. Keep your eyes closed as you imagine the rest of your day falling beautifully into place.

May your days be stress-free and happy.

Make an Easy Yogurt Face Mask for Dry Skin

Another simple idea from the crafty kitchen!

Why spend tons of money on expensive face masks when you probably have the ingredients for a great one in your very own kitchen? Home made masks are easy and fun, and they don't require expert knowledge of cooking or recipes.

You'll need:

• 2 Tbsp. plain yogurt
• 2 Tbsp. uncooked oatmeal
• A drizzle of honey

To prepare and apply the mask:

1. Mix together the yogurt and oatmeal in a bowl. For a more refreshing mask, use yogurt straight from the fridge. For a more soothing mask, use room-temperature yogurt. Do not heat the yogurt.
2. Drizzle honey over the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Apply with fingers using a gentle, circular motion to clean, dry skin, until skin is covered. Avoid the eye area.
4. Leave mask on for up to 10 minutes while you make coffee, read the paper, or run a bath.
5. Rinse with warm water, gently massaging your skin for extra glow.
   

May your days be filled with softness.

Avocados for Skin and Hair Care

Avocados are not only rich in potassium, B vitamins, and vitamins E and K, they also have the highest fiber content of any fruit.

Vitamin E helps keep your skin clear and glowing, and potassium and B vitamins keep your hair strong and shiny. But avocados can also be great for your skin and hair when placed directly on them!

Some crafty tips from the kitchen spa for using avocados in your regular beauty regimen:

• Scoop the flesh of an avocado and mix with one ripe banana. Apply to your freshly washed face and leave on for as long as you want. Great for regular to dry skin.
• For oily skin, mix ripe avocado with egg yolk, honey, and lemon juice. Apply to your skin and leave on for 15 minutes. Rinse well with warm water.
• Mix a ripe avocado with honey and coconut milk and apply to the ends of your hair as a masque. Leave on for 5-30 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Add an egg yolk for extra strengthening power!

May your days be delicious and beautiful.

Make Your Own Aromatherapy Sachets

Sachets are scent-filled pillows that add a bit of aromatherapy to areas of your life that might need some brightening-up! They are easy to make and a fun way to spend a few hours. You'll need:

• Fabric ~ Pick a pattern or color that resonates with you: deep red or amber work well for musky scents; rich browns for chocolate or earthy scents; soothing blues and greens for tranquil scents. Use organic fabrics if possible!
• Potpourri ~ Make your own or purchase your favorite. I like to use lavender buds from my garden, mixed with flaxseeds for weight.
• Ribbon to match the fabric, enough to tie the sachets closed.
  
• Optional: beads, charms, or other accessories for decoration.
  

Here's how:

1. Using a ruler and good scissors, measure and cut a strip of fabric that's 10 1/2" x 3 1/4".
2. Fold in the raw edges, about 1/4".
3. Iron the fold or hold in place with pins, toward the "wrong" side of the fabric.
4. Using a sewing machine or by hand, sew the edges into place, until no raw edges are showing on the "right" side of the fabric.
5. Fold the fabric strip in half, "right" sides facing each other, "wrong" side facing out. Sew the edges together, 1/4" in from the sides.
6. Turn the sachet right-side out and fill it halfway with potpourri.
7. Tie the bag with your ribbon and decorate with beads or charms.

Place the sachets in drawers, under pillows, in your car's glove compartment, on your desk, in your computer bag, in a pocket ~ wherever you need a new scent!

May your days be filled with sensual delight.