I am horrible at relaxing. If you leave me to “sleep”, you’ll find me on Twitter. Taking a bath? I’m checking my emails. Relaxing outside? I’m writing something in my head and planning next week. It’s nothing to be proud of, trust me. It’s just plain stupid.
However, I have found a couple of things that have tricked me in to relaxing. Some of those things I am not willing to write about here because I have some boundaries (not many, but some...) and I thought it would do some good to share them with you, fellow stress bunnies.
All of these have been tried and tested. YOU HAVE MY WORD.
Tuscan Fig Candle
Yes, I like scented candles. No, this doesn’t mean you should buy them for me for my birthday or Christmas. (Nice try.) This candle (pictured above) isn’t necessarily meant to be therapeutic, I just like the way it smells. This is probably just a psychological trick - “Hey, I’m lighting a candle. See how seriously I’m taking this whole relaxing thing?” - but it works. And smells divine.
The White Company, £20
Aromatic Foaming Bath
If you’re after some serious bubbles, this will not do the trick. However, if you’re looking for to take a long, hot bath with some added aromatherapy goodness to unwind, this foaming bath from Neal’s Yard is your new BFF4EVA. I love this stuff, but tend to only use it once a week to keep it being a treat.
Neal’s Yard, £14
Moisturising Mask
I like this mask because it doesn’t cause you to look like Elphaba from Wicked, nor does it crack and smell like feet. It doesn’t harden, it just sits on your face (ahem) and moisturizes the heck out of your skin. Because it isn’t made from a bunch of fruity crap like most masks, it wont get all up in your hair and take forever to remove, either.
Dr. Hauschka, £36.95 (or £5.95 for a trail)
Lavender Pillow Mist
This is probably just another psychological trick, but this lavender pillow mist is amazing. It smells lovely, and it really feels like you’re taking sleeping seriously - but not too seriously - when you spray it before bed time. Your bed should be your ultimate relaxing place, so why not make it smell nice, too?
Boots, £6.15
Main image via The White Company