Rejuvenation…

THERE IS NOTHING QUITE like feeling rejuvenated, that sense of renewal, revitalization and restoration. There are many factors that contribute to feeling rejuvenated. For some it is rest, for others it may be a 25km hiking adventure. Perhaps time with family rejuvenates you, or time in solitude. It is entirely subjective and any way you choose to cultivate it is perfect.

Speaking of perfect, late summer / early fall can be the perfect season to rejuvenate. Days are still long, the sun is shining and people tend to be in relatively good moods, likely in part due to the number of daylight hours! This all lends to fun and carefree social engagements like beach day barbecues, evening fire sits, or other simple gatherings. Quality time with loved ones and friends can be the perfect antidote to feeling burnt out or drained.

If solo recharging is your jam, quiet walks in nature, early morning meditation and yoga practices, or sipping a delightful midday tea or healthy mocktail may be all you need to feel restored. Mocktails can be made using a chilled herbal tea, adding sparkling water, some ice and fresh mint, lime or frozen berries, or all three!

Whether on “official” summer holidays or not, spending time outdoors; enjoying the abundance of healthy, fresh, local food if we are fortunate enough to have the access and resources; and hopefully playing a bit more than usual, are all wonderful ways to recharge.

Breaking some habitual patterns, for example, visiting a new coffee shop, trying a different river spot, or exploring a local artisan shop can also add to a sense of renewal. Getting out of town on a day or overnight excursion can do wonders too.

The simplest things can offer that feeling of freshness we may be craving.

After some time in the summer elements, our skin could use some rejuvenation too! DIY holistic bodycare is the perfect way to rejuvenate the skin, our largest organ. This hydrating, nourishing body butter is simple, smells incredible even without essential oils, and is an act of self-care simply in the application to our summer thirsty skin.

Enjoy your version of rejuvenation, knowing that whatever and however you choose to create it, is absolutely perfect!

These ingredients are easy to find at health food shops. If they aren’t in your budget, find a friend to share the cost and make it together!

⅓ cup coconut oil

⅓ cup shea butter

⅓ cup cocoa butter

2 tsp arrowroot powder*

*Optional. This can make it feel less greasy but if your skin is dry it may just slurp it up as is!

• Over medium heat, melt oils in a double boiler or glass bowl. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

• Transfer bowl to the fridge to continue cooling until it begins to harden (it will turn white or yellow depending on the type of shea butter).

• Remove from fridge. Whip with an electric or hand mixer on medium speed for approx 5 minutes until fluffy. It will resemble a pillowy cloud!

• Add 15-20 drops of essential oil of choice and mix again for another minute.

• Transfer to an airtight jar and store in a cool dry place. note: warm spots will cause the oils to melt.

Have fun blending and playing with aromas and become an alchemist.

For calming / grounding: frankincense, lavender, cedarwood, bergamot

For energizing / uplifting: peppermint, rosemary, grapefruit (note: citrus oils are photosensitive and should not be applied before sun exposure)

For dry or dehydrated skin: geranium, ylang ylang, neroli, carrot seed

Dana has been a devoted explorer of wellness for over 25 years. She combines her love of body work, aromatherapy, holistic nutrition and mindful movement to offer women her very best on their wellness journeys. Her first book, Release Your Inner Wild, is the modern day women’s guide to reconnecting with your true Self and honouring health, passion and power.

Dana Mahon | Wellness for the Wild Woman danamahon.com