You’ve hit a brick wall, physically, emotionally, and mentally. Hours of bus rides and game days consume your weekends, you’re swamped with menial homework, your camera is definitely off in class, and the ever present pandemic has swindled spring break. Since there won’t be any official breaks, it is imperative that we carve out our own time to practice self-care, especially with the current mental health epidemic.
“Self-care is giving the world the best of you, instead of what’s left of you” – Katie Reed
Regardless of what is wearing you down, these few simple and cost effective DIY’s may inspire you to practice mindfulness before you’re threadbare.
For those with seasonal allergies, you might find that sinus shower bombs help relieve congestion. You’ll need baking soda, eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils, a muffin tin or silicon molds and water, as well as a bowl and spoon. Start by scooping roughly a cup of baking soda into a bowl, then slowly add ⅓ of a cup of water till your mixture looks clumpy and damp. Pack that into your molds of choice and leave them to dry for a few days. When you’re ready to remove the tabs from the mold, add two drops of eucalyptus essential oil and one of peppermint oil per each bomb. To use, simply run it under the warm water before you shower.
For sugar scrub bars, you’ll need: coconut oil, glycerin soap base (which is available at Walmart, Target, or Michaels), essential oils, granulated sugar, a bowl and spoon and an ice cube tray, as well as some way to melt your soap base. To begin, cut your soap base into one inch cubes and melt about eight of them. Stir in ¼ of a cup of coconut oil and let that cool slightly before adding your essential oils to your liking. Add one cup of sugar to the mixture before you pack it into the ice cube tray and let it set in a colder environment until you’re ready to use them.
Lastly, for a peel-off milk mask, you will need milk, regular powdered gelatin, a bowl and spoon and a microwave. In your bowl, add roughly one tablespoon of gelatin, then add two to three tablespoons of milk. Stir it initially, till your mixture is smooth, then stir it occasionally for five minutes. Microwave your mixture for no more than thirty seconds until the consistency is creamy. Use the face mask as soon as it’s “touchable” and avoid letting it get on your eyebrows.
By Alexandra Perla Saxon
ansaxon@vwu.edu