January can often feel a bit of a slog. We’re still recovering from a full-on festive period, the routine cogs are turning once more, and it can feel as though we are in darkness, more than we are light. Being faced with a few challenges, this time of year provides an opportunity to recharge and prioritise our well-being, by indulging in some self-care and trying out some new tips to add into the everyday routine, to feel as though we are taking better care of ourselves.
One way to vamp up your self care is to romanticise aspects of your life and make small, everyday tasks feel a little more special. By upgrading your shower routine, you can do exactly that. How often do you just nip in for a quick whiffle and scrub, not really having the chance to indulge in your favourite products or take the time for a decent skincare? Especially if you’ve got several other bodies in the house to look after, you’re more than likely not able to have that time for yourself.
Gen X and Boomers are looking for ways to upgrade their self-care habits, given we’re slowly prioritising ourselves and making more space and time, for things that matter to us and make us feel a little more human. Here we share five ways to upgrade your shower routine and help make winter feel a little easier.
Lay out your Essentials
Before stepping into your steaming shower, get your post-spritz essentials at the ready so you don’t get chilly upon leaving the warmth of your hot shower (you can tell I’m writing this mid-winter…). Personally, I love wrapping myself into a towel that’s been warming on the radiator so it's lovely and toasty by the time I’ve finished. During the winter months, I sometimes even hang my pyjamas and socks on a radiator for maximum comfort, if I’m feeling like I need to be wrapped in a hug. Not forgetting to grab a robe and slippers - they’re non-negotiable, right?
Fill Your Space with Soothing Scents
Scented candles are a must-have addition to your self-care routine because they not only infuse your space with a wonderful scent, but they can also create a calming, peaceful atmosphere. Opt for comforting aromas like fresh linen or amber to unwind blissfully in no time.
If you want to infuse your space in a different way, essential oils and mists are an excellent way to fill it with fresh scents and create an aromatherapy experience. Put a bowl of hot water with a few drops of your favourite essential oils on your bathroom shelf. Once your shower starts to steam, the oils will transform your bathroom into a luxurious, aromatic sanctuary.
Refresh Your Bathroom Interiors
Upgrading your shower routine entails more than just changing out your skin and haircare products. Changing the interior design of your bathroom can entice you to spend even more time in your luxury retreat. Why not spruce up your interiors with a new bath mat or curtain that can be coordinated with your current décor.
For neutral bathrooms, consider a bright colour like cinnamon or orchid to add warmth to your space. If you prefer a softer colour palette, our white or meadow green towels are a classic that won’t ever date. Opt for bath sheets in the largest size to bring that sought-after spa-like feel into your home.
Use Natural Exfoliants
Throughout the day, our skin produces a build-up of sweat and other natural body oils, and without regular cleansing, all of that dirt and oil can accumulate. Chemical soaps can be harsh on your skin, stripping away essential oils that can lead to irritation; instead, choose gentle cleansers and natural soaps with added moisturisers to leave your skin feeling smooth and nourished.
Follow up with a nourishing body moisturiser in your favourite scent and you’re good to go! After all, nothing feels better than jumping into your fresh sheets after showering and moisturising.
Bring Nature Indoors
Incorporating greenery into your bathroom is aesthetically pleasing, but it also has numerous health benefits. Hanging fresh eucalyptus is the ultimate spa-like touch, but it also improves air quality and releases essential oils, creating a calming, blissful atmosphere.
Start by rolling a rolling pin across the leaves of your eucalyptus bunch to extract the essential oils. If you want to infuse your space even more, mix in your favourite flower stems at this point, and reap the benefits later. Then, using string or twine, secure your bunch so that you can hang it on your shower. Simply tie the eucalyptus bunch to your showerhead or shower basket, and voila! You'll have an insta-worthy shower that you can't wait to get into.
Enjoy!
