The month of November is the perfect moment to slow down. Days are getting shorter, it’s slowly getting colder and all everybody wants to do is cuddle under a warm blanket and rest. November should be the official cocooning month, if we do say so ourselves!
So, we went ahead and made a list of things to do to take care of yourselves, to slow down and to chase the grey November days away.
Bath time
Don’t underestimate the therapy that goes into drawing yourself a hot bath at the end of a hectic day or a stressful week. Adding a few drops of essential oils to relax (Ylang-Ylang, Lavender, Rosemary, Bergamot, Jasmin, etc.) lighting some candles, putting on your favorite playlist and reading a good book will go a long way.
To fully maximize this moment, transform your bath water into a mini-spa moment by soaking some tea leaves, dried flowers or oatmeal in a small cotton bag to infuse your water slowly. Doing so will soften your skin (with the oatmeal) or will add antioxidants (tea leaves) which are good for your skin.
Soothing bath in a bag
- 30 ml of Lavender flowers
- and/or 30ml of Romain chamomile flowers
- and/or 30ml of Calendula flowers
- and/or 30ml of Peppermint
- 250 ml de flocons d'avoine 250 ml of Oatmeal flakes
*Recipe is from the book:«Cosmétiques NON toxiques» Sylvie Fortin
Baths aren’t exactly eco-friendly, considering the water used to draw one, so make sure it’s a special moment and that you really enjoy it!
Essential oil diffuser
Cold air will often also bring with it some viruses and bacteria. If you want to boost your immune system and disinfect the air in your house, diffuse the essential oils and not only will they make your home smell lovely, it will also repel the unwanted intruders.
Our Antivirus mix:
- 3 drops of Clove EO
- 10 drops of Balsam fir EO
- 5 drops of Sweet Orange EO
- 5 drops of Bergamot EO
This will give you some cottage vibes and it’s really quite effective! If you are a bit congested, just add a few drops of Eucalyptus EO!
Read a good book
Once again, it’s about going back to the basics, but it’s often something we say we don’t have time to do (or take the time to do…). I’ve been starting my days by reading a few pages of a great novel that I got from the library and then I continue reading it at night in my bed before I go to sleep. I’ve been sleeping more soundly and it’s a great way to wind down, educate yourself or let your imagination run wild, depending on the book you choose!
Treat yourself to a therapeutic session
Ok, so we know it’s a luxury! But there is nothing like a good acupuncture, reflexology or a massage session when your energy is low. These moments where our bodies wind down are immune system boosters and they lower our stress levels. It also helps prevent the November blues, therefore, it’s money well spent! There isn’t much to regret when you invest in yourself and your health, in the long run!
Go take a walk outside
The month of November is known to be grey and a bit gloomy, so when it’s nice outside make it a point to go walk around and breathe some fresh air! No need to live in the country to do so. There are so many places to go to in Montreal (Lac aux castors, Mont-Royal, Westmount park, Lafontaine park, Lachine Canal, etc.) that are ideal to go fill up on your vitamin D.
Wrap yourself up in warm clothes and go move around! It’s good for the mood, it’ll boost your energy levels and it’s good for you!
All in all, listen to what your body tells you, take some time for yourself and do things that you love!
Happy cocooning!
L&S
