LOVE IS AROUND THE CORNER

Valentine's Day has a long tradition in various cultures around the world as a day of expressing and celebrating love to others. Roses and bouquets are in high demand, and expensive dinners are almost always expected. But times are changing, and Valentine’s Day is starting to take on a slightly broader definition. We celebrate love in general – be it romantic or friendly. Self-love is also key – what’s the point without it?

A DIFFERENT KIND OF VALENTINE'S

It’s always nice to get (and smell!) flowers, of course. It’s also a pleasure to sit and have a delicious meal in the company of a loved one. There’s nothing wrong with that. Perhaps instead of flowers that will quickly wither, or chocolates gifted just for the sake of it, you can try out something new? Make your own gift – add a bit of yourself into it and show that it comes from the heart a bit more.

NOTHING LIKE A SOOTHING BATH

Here’s a simple recipe that will be more fragrant than flowers. Also, it will last longer and nurture and relax - both you and the person you love. Bath salts with essential oils are a great addition to a bath experience. While relaxing in itself, a bath with aromatic salts will elevate the experience even more.

You will need the following:

• 400 g of Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate)
• 100 g of coarse sea salt
• 10 drops of true lavender
• 10 drops of Indian frankincense
• 10 drops of Himalayan cedar

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is a very affordable and accessible ingredient. It has been used for many years as a supplement to baths, most often to relieve muscle and joint pain, for skincare purposes, and for improving sleep quality. Coarse sea salt, on the other hand, will help you do a gentle body scrub and float a bit more lightly in your bath.

Essential oils will join in with their beneficial effects – nourish the skin, bring about feelings of relaxation and comfort. Also, the aroma they will bring will smell better than the most beautiful flower bouquets.

HOW TO MAKE, HOW TO USE?

You can’t go wrong with this recipe – no need to worry about it not succeeding. Simply mix the salts and essential oils in a large bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture is uniform and then store in a glass jar with and seal with a lid. Add 2 to 4 tablespoons of salt to the bath – enjoy the care it provides and the aromas it exudes. Share this gift and try it out with your loved one – or treat yourself to it. Whatever you decide, you will be immersed in love.

NATURE CAN ALSO BE YOUR VALENTINE

Whether you are expressing romantic or friendly love to others on Valentine's Day or showing some yourself, you’re also expressing your love towards nature with this gift. With a DIY approach, you’re reducing the amount of waste and contributing to the environment. Who knows, you might even fall in love with nature along the way – we at KAIAA would be more than glad.