Time Of The Month Essentials

I thought I would share a few tips and suggestions to making that time of the month less exhausting *groans*

FOOD IS FUEL
I think it is really important to keep structure during this stressful time, that means having proper meals which give us enough energy to get through the day. This doesn't mean you can't indulge in chocolate- just ensure that you aren't replacing your meals with sugar.

Although, that being said, I'd still encourage you to:

TREAT YOURSELF
It's hard enough dealing with everyday stress, all of which seems magnified during this period (pardon the pun) so it makes sense to chill out and gain a cleaner mindset towards tasks. For the ultimate pamper, I like to have a bath filled with goodies from Lush, along with a hair and face mask. Have a cuppa, read a book, watch YouTube videos or whatever helps you escape reality for a while.

(My current haircare faves)

SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS

Alone time is important but if you feel a little unmotivated during these days, it can be comforting to be surrounded by friends to cheer you up. Just washing your hair and getting out of the house for some fresh air will really aid in lifting your spirits. If you, like many of us, can't handle company during this time in fear of becoming a mega bitch- dog walks are a good alternative.

EXTRA TIPS
I would suggest being extra organised during this time (always!) to reduce stress, be it through creating to-do lists or setting out clothes the night before school- believe me it'll help minimise the amount of crying over silly things we've forgotten to do.

I know that those women who run during their period make us want to punch something but light stretching or cardio can actually release endorphins which in turn, make us happier. If you are lazy like me then how about try some yoga moves which you don't even need to leave your bed to do! A few are mentioned here: Cramp-Relieving Yoga.

Nothing pleases me more than making a zen atmosphere, deep times I know. light some scented candles or incense and simply reflect on the day so that those essays don't seem so daunting.

♥

March Empties

I've collected a bunch of products I've used up and thought I'd write a review for each item once the box was full- so here goes, my first empties post.

           

First up is something which came in a Lush gift box and so it isn't what usually catches my eye in store...

It's Lush's 'Fun' in Blue, a playdoh-like bar filled with chamomile and lavender oil to use as a body wash, hair wash or for bubble baths. The scent is fresh, sweet and floral but not super feminine. It is pretty fun (excuse the pun) to be able to mould little shapes out of this 'soap' and I'm sure would be a hit with little ones! In terms of price, I'm pretty sure these are under £5 and last for ages.

Next up, two samples from Aesop, the purifying facial exfoliant paste and the 'fabulous' face oil. 

The scrub contained fine quartz, rosemary leaf and lactic acid which was fairly powdery rather than scratchy. Despite the overwhelming herbal smell which was quite medicinal it did a good job of smoothing out all bumps and reduce redness. The abrasive texture meant that I would only use it on the chin area- definitely not on the eye area and was too harsh for everyday use.

The oil was a concoction of juniper berry, ylang ylnag and jasmine, which as you can imagine was quite intense fragrance wise. The scent was spa like but I didn't want to smother my face with it. The residue remained on skin in a strange way as if it wasnt absorbing despite being on for an entire sunday. My dry patches in between eyes remained so not much hydration happening- major letdown.

I am a huge fan of the Twinings green tea and peppermint range but the Salted Caramel was not to my liking. The smell was insanely good, like danish pastries and honey. The taste however was weak and bland with a hint of butter which was frankly, rancid. 

A bit of positivity with this one finally! My ultimate bedtime beverage, a sweet peppermint and chamomile tea from Celestial. If you see this anywhere just give it a sniff- beyond delicious and although it's probably the warm drink sending me off, I find that this really helps me drift off.

Two candles which have burnt beyond reuse, both very subtle. The Gardenia one is more floral and creamy whereas the Muji one is citrusy and sweet. I would recommend both for affordability and lasting power.

Last but by no means least is my go-to cream cleanser by Botanics. Marshmallow and sweet almond oil leave my face nourished and clean without feeling stripped. It is also very soothing on sensitive skin so would definitely reccomend for unruly teenage skin or for those looking for a budget cleanser - this bottle is around £8 and lasts for ages.