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Me time is almost taboo in the land of Motherhood. We are always 'needed' for one thing or another. I'm learning more and more how necessary it really is to MAKE time for self care and a little bit of pampering.  I made a pact with myself to get back to the regimen I held before my time was split four ways. In a very while, things have really improved. It seems like the more time I spend caring for me, the more time I have to care for everyone else. The more I love up on Me, the more love I feel for others and the more they give back to me! I no longer feel like I'm giving all of myself but my family feels like they're getting more of me. It really is an amazing thing. Now, this isn't to say that I have just dropped everything and made space for only me. My responsibilities haven't changed but I've changed the way I manage my time. I find 5-10 minute 'snatches' of time and capitalize on them.

Of course I bless the days when I have the resources to spare to have a spa day; but I also appreciate the care that I can give myself at home. So when I was in the Indian market a few months back and came across a bottle of rosewater I got kinda excited. I knew it had to be great for baths at least so I brought some home. It turns out its a top notch cleanser and toner. Its great for sunburn, acne and skin regeneration and it's even rumored that Cleopatra washed her face with it. (A serious STEAL at about $2-3 a bottle!) So yeah, I've been using it ever since, especially in facials and baths. It's so calming, and when paired with lavender it's an unbelievably relaxing experience. Give yourself one of these five minute facials when you need a "calming pick-me-up" during the day, you won't be disappointed!

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You don't need much for this quick treat. A little rosewater, (which you can DIY by boiling rose petals, covered on a medium heat, then store for later use) a towel and I use a little coconut oil at the end for a moisturizer but you can use whatever you like.
So, when you get a quiet moment, run the bathroom faucet as hot as you can stand it. Stand over the sink with a large enough towel draped over your head to hold the steam in. Relax and let the warmth open your pores. For the purposes of the '5 minute facial' I'll say stand 2 minutes but you can stay longer or shorter if you want. It's your facial! :) Do what makes you most comfortable. Now, I try to stay away from harsh chemicals and detergents on my face since facial skin is so delicate. I have found a great goats milk soap that's very mild that I use here for a quick cleanse. If you have a mild enough soap, use it. If not, the rosewater acts as a cleanser too, so fret not. Gently clean your face and décolletage with rosewater and cotton pads in upward sweeping motions. 'Rinse' your face with cotton pads dipped in clean water in upward sweeping motions :). Take a moment to pat your face dry with a clean face towel. Dab a [very] few drops of coconut oil onto your fingertips and massage into your face in upward circular motions. Coconut oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifungal, and sun protective properties. It can help fight acne and other skin ailments and is a great all around moisturizer and dietary supplement. 




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