herbal facial steam

Let me introduce you to your new best friend: The Herbal Facial Steam

 

So last week I had a little cold. It was one of those colds that had the potential to become a full blown thing, but I (begrudgingly) took my own advice and didn’t do any strong exercise for a couple of days, cancelled some plans, took a sauna, ate a lot of soup and had as many naps and restorative poses as I could possibly squeeze into my days.

 

I survived - but I have a real tendency to lose my voice after a cold which makes teaching yoga an absolute nightmare. I am slightly traumatised by past experiences of having coughing fits while calling out a sun salutation (#triggered), so was on damage control at the slightest sign of throat dryness. Enter - The Steam. Inhaling steam and herbs not only shakes everything up if you’re congested, it adds back in that sweet, plumping, moistening quality so longed for in winter.

 

After a couple of days of steaming my face morning and night, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and was like, wow. My skin is LUMINOUS. Maybe not quiet luminous, but for someone who, usually, by the onset of autumn has peeling skin from dryness, no matter how many times I reapplied rosehip oil throughout the day, this was a revelation. As a side note on severe dryness in winter? A couple things: Green juice, infusions and watery fruits and vegetables for deep internal hydration and cut out all essential oils for anything that goes on your face, and moisturise your body with plain almond oil or shea butter. Oh and take off those synthetic tight yoga pants and get your body out in the sun as much as possible.

 

After a couple of days of steaming my face morning and night, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and thought wow! My skin looked luminous. For someone who usually by the onset of autumn has peeling skin from dryness, this was a revelation. As a side note on severe dryness in winter: green juice, infusions and watery fruits and vegetables are great for deep internal hydration. Cut out all essential oils for anything that goes on your face, and moisturise your body with plain almond oil or shea butter. Oh and take off those synthetic tight yoga pants and get your body out in the sun as much as possible!

 

Herbal Facial Steam for Immune System Support
1 sprig eucalyptus leaves
*Sprinkles of:
Rosemary
Lavender
Thyme
Lemon Balm
Citrus rinds or peels

 

Herbal Facial Steam For Beauty
*Sprinkles of:
Rose Petals
Calendula
Lavender

 

Make sure you cleanse your face beforehand, and take time to massage in your favourite oil or moisturiser afterwards - use a jade roller or gua sha tool if you have one. Note that if you are congested….. it’s not going to be pretty. Don’t uh.. force anything to come out? But let it all happen if thats what your body needs! Herbal facial steams are super hydrating, calming, great for circulation and cleansing. Plus they’re cheap and low fuss too!

 

by emmie rae
'take exquisite care of yourself'