People who suffer from psoriasis tend to experience more symptoms and flare-ups during fall and winter. In addition to the stress people experience during the holidays, the colder temperatures and reduced daylight hours tend to trigger psoriasis symptoms. In fact, in a survey conducted by the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF), 4 out of 10 people with psoriasis explained that they experienced more symptoms during the winter.

Psoriasis 101

Psoriasis is a condition that causes irregular immune function and involves a series of different symptoms. It’s best to consult a dermatologist to figure out the necessary steps to manage the condition, but each person deals with it in their own way. Some people only experience minor symptoms, while others develop a series of patches and deal with regular flare-ups. For the most part, though, people with psoriasis can experience a combination of the following symptoms:

• Irritated or sensitive skin
• Inflammation of skin and joints
• Itching, burning, stinging, or painful sensation in affected areas
• Overdevelopment of skin cells (resulting in plaques)
• Joint pain (for people who have psoriatic arthritis)

The colder weather and holiday stress doesn’t mean that you have to suffer through flare-ups and frustrating symptoms. You can help manage symptoms and naturally improve the condition with the following tips. 

Add Moisture To The Air

In addition to the dry air outside, indoor air is often very dry as a result of heating. This can irritate sensitive skin and worsen flaking or itching. According to Mayo Clinic, the humidity in your home should be between 30 and 50 percent. One of the best ways to add more moisture to the air is by using a humidifier. Although it’s an expensive option, it’s best to incorporate a central humidifier to your home’s air-conditioning system. A portable humidifier in the bedroom or living room is the next best option. 

Try Light Therapy

It’s possible to receive a prescription from your health care provider for UV light therapy treatment. This can be beneficial during the winter months because there is less daylight. Exposing the skin to ultraviolet B (UVB) light on a regular basis may be an effective treatment for psoriasis. According to studies, UVB light exists in natural sunlight and it helps to penetrate the skin, slowing down the rapid growth of skin cells. It’s possible that other types of light therapy exist, but they may increase the risk of skin cancer. 

Avoid Wearing Wool

When it’s cold outside, staying warm is of the utmost importance. Naturally, many people opt for wool clothing items because it keeps the body incredibly warm. Wool is also itchy and it can be especially irritating for people with psoriasis or sensitive skin. If you already have symptoms, wearing wool may only increase their severity. If you absolutely have to wear your favorite wool sweater, it’s best to do so over cotton or silk undergarments that don’t allow itchy fibers to irritate the skin. It’s also best to wear breathable clothing because bundling up and overheating may lead to chafed skin that increases the risk of flare-ups.

Take Shorter Showers And Baths

Standing in a steamy shower or soaking in a hot bath is magical when it’s cold outside. Spending a lot of time in hot water, however, can easily dry out the skin. Taking a shower or bath helps you get clean, but it also strips the skin of its natural oils. You can help minimize flare-ups and prevent symptoms by only taking one shower or bath per day. Keep it short as well, only spending five minutes or so in the shower and no more than 15 minutes in a bath. If you do take a bath, it’s best to use lukewarm water and mix Epsom salt in to increase mineral absorption.

Avoid Trigger Foods

During the fall and winter months, it’s easy to abandon dietary rules and eat whatever’s in sight. Unfortunately, many of these temptations are often trigger foods that increase the risk of flare-ups. Common trigger foods include processed foods, gluten, high-fat dairy products, alcohol, and more. You can click here to learn more about trigger foods. Many indulgent holiday spreads tend to have these foods, so do your best to avoid them because consuming trigger foods during cold weather may result in severe symptoms or extreme irritation.

In addition to the above recommendations, resist the urge to scratch because that can worsen symptoms. The last thing you want is to accidentally open a lesion and develop an infection. 

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When you think of the holidays, twinkling lights, hot cocoa, festive cheer, and time with friends and family come to mind. Too many people understand that the holidays typically bring about stress and pressure. Planning gatherings, hosting parties, and managing financial concerns are just a few things that come with the season. That’s why we recommend you take some time for self-care in order to nurture your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. 

What Is Self-Care?

In a nutshell, self-care is any action or effort that preserves or improves your overall health or wellbeing. That is especially true during periods of stress. Self-care is especially important during the holidays, as it balances the pressure you put on yourself or what others put on you to fulfill expectations. Create a buffer for yourself using self-care practices, which can look different for everyone. Some people may need a relaxing bath, while others may simply need to say no to holiday commitments. Consider the following self-care tips to have a stress-free holiday. 

Make Time For Movement

Physical activity, even if it is a brisk walk in the crisp winter air during your lunch break, is a great way to relieve stress. Find time to move in ways that are supportive to your body. Gentle movements, such as yoga or stretching, can be highly beneficial, especially if you sit all day for work. During time with family, spend time walking around the neighborhood and admire the lights.

Practice Positive Affirmations

A simple practice of saying positive affirmations for a couple minutes every day can help reinforce a sense of inner peace. You can also meditate for five minutes every day to help reduce stress and center yourself. Alternatively, practice gratitude by keeping a daily gratitude journal. Write down five things (big or small) that you are grateful for!

Set Healthy Boundaries

This tip applies to family or friends, because you should always do what is comfortable for you. Attend the number of events that you want, know your limits, and do not be afraid to communicate them with friends or families. Just remember that it is perfectly acceptable to turn down invitations or delegate tasks during chaotic times. 

Stay Hydrated

With all the hustle and bustle, you can easily forget to both eat and drink water. Drinking water throughout the day can help improve digestion, manage stress, prevent unnecessary snacking, and improve overall wellbeing. If you are not great about drinking water, carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times. You can even set alarms on your phone to remind yourself to drink more water. 

Stick To A Budget

Be mindful of what you can and cannot afford in order to reduce financial stress this holiday season. Plan your spending and stick to it! Use budgeting apps to help you avoid over-spending and remember that it is ultimately the thought behind the gift that means more than how much you spend. 

Take Social Breaks

Socializing can take a lot out of you, so it is no wonder that you feel exhausted after attending a party or gathering. It is essential to incorporate solitary quiet time to help you reconnect with yourself. Look for moments in your schedule where you can schedule solitude, even if it is only for 15 minutes. Consider meditating or doing your affirmations during this time as well. 

Express Emotions Openly

The holidays can stir up a mixture of emotions. Do not hold these feelings inside; rather, allow yourself the freedom to express what you are feeling, be it joy, sadness, stress, etc. Keep a journal or schedule a weekly call with someone you trust and can openly vent to. Sharing emotions with someone you trust can be incredibly relieving, so do not be afraid to seek support this holiday season.

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Even though they may not be as expensive or fancy, handmade gifts tend to mean more than those bought in the store. Obviously, a homemade sugar scrub is not the same as a brand new laptop, but top-tier electronics are not always in the budget. Perhaps the laptop is in the budget, but you want to give a lot of gifts to friends, colleagues, and family. A great way to do that is by making your own beauty gifts. 

Heartfelt, homemade gifts always put a smile on the gift receiver’s face. It’s a beautiful gesture and people appreciate the time you took to make them something. The great thing about homemade sugar scrubs, bath bombs, soaps, or lotions is that you can make large batches and portion them out into small containers. Decorate the containers to your liking! You can even adhere labels on them that detail the ingredients or instructions to whatever you make. 

Since dry skin is very common during the winter, there are several DIY beauty recipes in this article that help moisturize the skin. There’s nothing wrong with giving a gift that improves skin health! Your gifts may be so well received that you have some repeat customers the following year. Or maybe you share the recipe(s) with your friends and family so they can enjoy the products year round. 

We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and hope these gifts go over well, should you decide to make and gift them. They are perfect for anyone on a budget, and the best part is that they are free of harmful chemicals. Let us know in the comments if you make one of the recipes, and if the people enjoy them as gifts!

Soothing DIY Lavender Oatmeal Bath Bombs

Release all the tension in your body and hydrate your skin in a relaxing soak with these DIY lavender oatmeal bath bombs. 

Click here to make the bath bomb. 

DIY Peppermint Sugar Scrub

Not only is this peppermint sugar scrub easy to make and beneficial for the skin, but it also utilizes some of the best scents of the holiday season.

Click here to make the sugar scrub. 

DIY Beard Oils With An Essential Oil Blend

Do you know someone with a beard? Help them get rid of any itchiness or dryness by gifting them this DIY all-natural beard oil. It’ll tame that mane!

Click here to make the beard oil. 

DIY Mint Foot Butter For Softer Feet

Nourish your feet, freshen them up, decrease cracked heels, and get rid of unpleasant odors by applying this DIY mint foot butter. People will notice the different after only a couple applications!

Click here to make the foot butter. 

DIY Under Eye Cream For Dark Circles

Do you want to help someone tighten their skin, reduce puffiness, and reduce wrinkles with 3 ingredients? Make this all-natural DIY under eye cream and people will love it!

Click here to make the eye cream.

DIY Aftershave Made With Essential Oils

Don’t let your male friends or family members plague their skin with the chemicals in personal care products after they shave. Instead, help them soothe their skin with this DIY aftershave.

Click here to make the aftershave.

DIY Apple Spice Sugar Scrub

Slather on a big dollop of this apple spice sugar scrub on the skin for maximum hydration, exfoliation, and moisture during dryer weather.

Click here to make the sugar scrub.

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In the world of health and wellness, gut health, detoxing, weight loss, and immunity are typically the most discussed topics. You may also hear about hormone balance, inflammation reduction, and natural detoxification. What doesn’t receive a lot of attention is lymphatic health. Perhaps you have heard of lymphatic massage, but there is more to detoxing the lymphatic system than a simple massage. This article covers how you can support the often neglected lymphatic system. 

What Does The Lymphatic System Do?

On average, there is about three times more lymphatic fluid than blood in the body. The system constantly works to carry immune cells, nutrients, and waste products through hundreds of lymph nodes. The lymphatic system does not have a pump, so lymphatic fluid only moves if you move. Lymphatic fluid contains white blood cells that fight infection, in addition to proteins and waste products that have to be eliminated. 

As lymph passes through the nodes, it filters in order for the body to remove toxins, debris, and damaged cells. That is one of the primary ways that the body keeps inflammation under control. That means that your immune system works better and the body can recover more quickly when lymph is flowing. When the system slows down, you can experience brain fog, fatigue, swelling, and puffiness. That’s why supporting lymphatic flow is a great way to help the body stay as healthy as possible. 

Why Does Lymphatic Fluid Get Stuck?

Present day sedentary life is not kind to the lymphatic system. Lack of movement from long hours of sitting means that your muscles are not squeezing lymph vessels like they should. Even being a little dehydrated can make lymphatic fluid thicker and more difficult to move. Other common things that cause lymphatic fluid to get stuck include:

• Chronic stress, which alters breathing patterns and blood flow
• Daily exposure to environmental toxins
• Tight clothing that compresses vessels
• Poor sleep, which reduces drainage at night

These things slowly build up over time and can make it harder for lymphatic fluid to flow freely. Continue reading to learn about everyday habits that can keep lymph flowing.

Rebounding And Inversions

Rebounding is a low-impact exercise that involves jumping on a small trampoline, also called a rebounder. It is especially helpful for lymphatic flow because the up-and-down movement works like a pump for your entire system. A few minutes of light bouncing can make a big difference. If you do not have a rebounder, lie flat on the floor with your legs resting up against the wall. That encourages fluid from the lower legs to drain back towards your core. 

Contrast Therapy

Although the Ice Man, Wim Hof, has been promoting cold plunging for years, contrast therapy is now a part of the lexicon. It is the act of alternating between hot and cold as a way to stimulate circulation and lymphatic fluid. The heat dilates blood vessels and the cold constricts them. Going back and forth between the two creates a pumping effect for lymphatic flow. You can sit in a sauna and then take a plunge in a cold bath. You can even end your hot shower with a minute of cold for some benefits. 

Lymphatic Massage And Dry Brushing

Gentle massage can help support lymphatic flow, but lymphatic massage is not the same as deep tissue massage. In fact, lymphatic massage is very light and it almost feels like the skin is being stretched. Begin at the collarbone area to help activate the system before working on other body parts. Dry brushing is another option that you can do yourself. Use a natural bristle brush and move in light strokes toward the heart. That helps stimulate circulation, supports lymphatic flow, and leaves the skin feeling softer. 

Walking And Gentle Movement

Walking is the easiest way to encourage healthy lymphatic flow. The lymphatic system relies on muscle contractions and even a short walk involves a lot of muscle contractions. Break up long periods of sitting with a few minutes of movement. If you have a desk job, take a walk on your lunch break instead of watching a video on your phone. Other gentle activities that encourage lymphatic flow include yoga, Tai Chi, or stretching.

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Let us set a very common scene for you quickly. You prepare your bedroom for sleepy time, turning on the fan, fluffing your pillow, and making sure everything else is just right. After you lie down and turn off the lights, you realize that you are alone with your own thoughts. Perhaps you spiral out of control about diseases that you don’t have, financial hardships, family members, and other stupid things that you don’t need to think about when going to bed. 

When you are in this situation, it feels like you cannot turn off your brain. Before you know it, you look at your phone and it is three in the morning. You have to wake up in a few hours to start the day, and that only propels your anxiety to a whole other level. The next thing you know, the sun is peaking through your curtains and it is time for you to greet the day, as much as you don’t want to. 

The goal is to get peaceful and restful sleep every night so that you feel refreshed when you wake up. What is the mind doing at night and how can you shut it down?

The Science Of Sleep

To give you a quick overview, you must know about two thought networks. The first is the central executive network (CEN) and the second is the default mode network (DMN). The former runs when you focus your attention on something, making it purposeful and task-oriented. The latter runs whenever the CEN is off and it is the general mental chatter that you hear all day long. DMN is essentially your stream of consciousness. 

The bad news is that the DMN is negatively biased, so it loves to point out the worst qualities you have. It brings up all of your most painful or embarrassing memories. Sleep experts note that one of the most critical stages of falling asleep is uncoupling the DMN. That basically means that you have to get areas of the brain to stop talking to each other. The CEN is tired at night, so it becomes more difficult to get the DMN to turn off because your ability to focus decreases. 

If you are uptight and stressed, the DMN may also not want to turn off. Researchers at Brown University watched people fall asleep in a brain scanner to better understand why people have a hard time going to sleep at hotels. They observed that the left hemisphere of the DMN remained more active than the rest of the brain during the first night. It woke up other areas of the brain when something unexpected happened, such as a hotel door closing or a voice in the hall. The more alert the DMN was to the outside world during the study, the longer it took for people to fall asleep. It was the DMN that kept them awake and alert when they really wanted to be asleep.

How To Train Your DMN For Better Sleep

Now that you have a better understanding of how the brain keeps you up at night, you can learn ways to override the DMN. The following techniques will help you fall asleep. Experiment with them and see which one works best for you. 

Read Something Uninteresting

If your DMN will not be quiet, find something neutral, boring, or uninteresting to read or listen to. Some people suggest watching something boring, but it’s best to limit blue light exposure before bed. Reading is great, but it is a big leap to go from an anxiety spell to a book. In that instance, an audiobook or podcast might be a better option. Perhaps an astronomer talking about Venus’ relationship to a black hole might soothe you and help you drift off to sleep. 

Force Your Mind To Remember Something

One of the scariest parts about going to sleep is the actual going-to-sleep part. The reason for that is because so many people struggle with sleep. That is true whether you are beginning to go to bed or trying to fall back asleep after waking up in the middle of the night. When you actively ask the brain to do something, you prevent the DMN from the chaos it causes. Try to remember something that you read or listened to from the previous tip. You can also try to remember the plot of a movie or book that you read/watched recently. Give yourself a cognitive task while falling asleep and the DMN won’t steal the show!

Breathe

It is very easy to feel stressed out when the DMN gets caught up in its worries and insecurities. You may feel your breathing become shallow and your muscles can clench. If the DMN is firing on all cylinders, you may clench your jaw and experience nightmares. To help calm the DMN, try soothing the body with some deep breaths. You can also engage in breathing techniques that promote more restful sleep. 

Take A Hot Bath

As a quick note, do not take a hot bath right before you are about to go to sleep. Hop in the bath to soak about two hours before bedtime. Research shows that a hot bath or shower at night can help people fall asleep almost as fast as people who take Ambien. Why does a hot bath or shower help the body shut down? In the hours leading up to bedtime, the body temperature naturally drops. A hot bath or shower simulates this process, helping to improve sleep duration and quality.

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No matter how old you are, a fall can affect your quality of life. It all depends on how you fall and the surface on which you fall. When you are over the age of 65, though, even minor falls can result in major injuries, such as hip fractures, head trauma, or broken bones. One report found that one in four older adults fall annually within the United States. After you fall once, your chances of falling again double. 

Besides compromising independence and quality of life, falls can bring about financial worry. That all depends on the extent of care that you require while recovering from the fall. The following tips can help you reduce your risk of falls, whether you are at home, a care facility, or out and about. 

Fall-Proof Your Home

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reports that most falls occur within the home. Fall-proofing the home doesn’t mean that you have to do extensive renovations or anything like that. There are simple changes you can make, such as the following:

• Add better lighting
• Increase the placement of light controls to avoid walking to switches
• Keep walking areas free of clutter
• Install railings on both sides of any stairs/steps
• Mount grab bars in high slip areas, such as the bathroom
• Use motion- or voice-activated electronics
• Place cookware and high use items in places that are easy to reach
• Use night lights
• Attach carpets firmly to the floor with nonslip pads
• Wear nonslip footwear
• Secure cords out of the way
• Maximize open space by rearranging your furniture

Keep Your Hands Free

Your hands are some of the best tools you have for keeping you upright. If you stumble, you instinctively reach out to grab onto something for stability. Unfortunately, that is also why a lot of people break their hands and wrists. They attempt to brace themselves on the ground, instead of rolling. That said, keeping your hands free means that you can easily grab onto something if you lose balance. Keep your hands available at all times by using backpacks or shoulder bags when possible. Consider taking more trips to and from the car if you buy groceries, only carrying one or two things at a time. You can also use a grocery delivery service that brings items straight to your door.

Engage In Balance And Strength Training Exercises

As you age, your physical capabilities decline. Available data suggests that muscle mass loss occurs at about 1% annually, with up to 50% loss by the age of 80. Some older adults also develop sarcopenia, a musculoskeletal disorder that causes declines in muscle mass, performance, and strength beyond what occurs as part of the natural aging process. The body changes with the decrease in strength, which is why balance worsens. For this reason, it is beneficial to keep up with balance, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises. Doing various movements that encourage core strength can help you maintain strength and stability. 

Improve Sleep Hygiene

According to researchers, poor sleep is linked to an increased risk of falling across many age groups. Poor sleep can cause daytime sleepiness, attention problems, and poor balance, all of which increase the risk of falling. There are many ways to improve your sleep, but some common recommendations are listed below:

• Limit screen time or blue light exposure at least one to two hours before bed
• Stick to a pre-sleep routine
• Go to bed and wake up around the same time every day
• Skip caffeine, alcohol, and large meals before bed
• Limit daytime naps, especially those in the late afternoon
• Go to bed only if you are tired
• Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and peaceful
• Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a neighborhood walk

Use Support Equipment

Canes, rollators (a type of walker), scooters, and regular walkers can be useful supportive devices that reduce falls. Within recent decades, mobility devices have made substantial improvements. Walkers are very lightweight and easily transportable. Newer scooters are now capable of higher speeds and smoother movement on uneven terrain. A walking cane can also encourage you to stay active, while providing support at the same time. If you love animals, consider getting a service dog to improve quality of life.

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During the summer months, it is easy to encounter several pests, including mosquitos and ticks. You can also get tangled up in some poison ivy while hiking if you are not careful. That should not scare you away from being outside and enjoying nature. Skin irritation happens no matter what you do or where you go. When something does happen, jewelweed salve may be the natural, folk remedy that helps your skin issues with ease.

What Is Jewelweed?

Jewelweed is a wild-growing plant that has helped soothe skin irritations for centuries. Some people have used it to calm eczema, while others apply it to keep bug bites from itching. The actual plant grows in shady areas across North America, but you can typically find it near water sources, such as creeks or streams in the forest. You can actually find it growing by its poisonous neighbor: poison ivy. The good news is that it has distinctive orange flowers and seed pods that explode (to a certain degree), making it fun to forage for. 

According to researchers, jewelweed contains powerful natural compounds, especially lawsone. This molecule is believed to contend with urushiol, which is the rash-inducing oil in poison ivy. Some preliminary research shows that rubbing jewelweed on the skin after brushing up against poison ivy can stop the rash before it even starts. How amazing is that?! Lawsone can actually block urushiol, which reduces or prevents rash altogether. Jewelweed also contains saponins, which act like natural soap to help cleanse the skin. 

Traditional And Modern Uses Of Jewelweed

Historically, Native American tribes mashed jewelweed plants to make a poultice to treat poison ivy rashes, cuts, burns, sprains, and insect bites. Modern research backs this up as well! Freshly mashed jewelweed is a popular remedy for stopping a poison ivy rash before it even starts. Jewelweed soap can also help reduce poison ivy rash if you use it right away after contact. In general, soap is efficient at breaking up the oils in poison ivy that cause rash. 

Should you get into some poison ivy, your best bet at avoiding a rash is to use jewelweed right away. It is not always apparent that you have been in contact with poison ivy until it’s too late, especially if you do not know what poison ivy looks like. If that is the case, a DIY jewelweed salve can be a great alternative. Soothe or prevent a poison ivy rash with the following salve, which also works on bug bites and irritated skin. 

DIY Jewelweed Salve

Ingredients:

• Fresh jewelweed, roughly chopped
• 1 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops tea tree oil
• 1/2 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Place the jewelweed into a pint-size Mason jar. You want enough plant material to fill the jar up to the halfway point. Cover the jewelweed with olive oil. 
• Fill a saucepan about halfway with water and place a cotton towel at the bottom. Place the jar with the jewelweed and olive oil on top of the cloth, as that will prevent the jar from breaking. 
• Turn the heat to medium-low and bring the water to a simmer. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and keep in the water bath for about three hours. You can add more water if it evaporates. 
• Strain the jewelweed-infused oil through a cheesecloth, giving it a good squeeze to get as much infused oil out as possible. 
• Add one cup of the infused oil and the beeswax to the top of a double boiler and heat until the wax is melted. Stir to combine. 
• Remove from the heat and then stir in the essential oils and vitamin E oil. Pour the mixture into small tins or glass jars and allow the salve to harden at room temperature.
• Use on poison ivy rash, mosquito bites, and eczema or irritated skin.

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Summer is nearly here, and you are likely planning to spend more time outdoors. Perhaps you spend a day at the beach, lake, or pool, or maybe you go on a long hike. By spending so much time outside, you increase your exposure to sunlight, insects, and other things that can cause itchy or painful rashes. Sometimes, the cause of the rash may be a mystery, but this article intends to explain the unexpected causes of summer rashes. 

You can easily prevent sunburn by taking the proper precautions. How do you prevent rashes, though? From swimmer’s itch and hot tub rash to polymorphous light eruption, we give you the low-down on common yet surprising causes of rashes during summer. 

Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmer’s itch differs from seabather’s eruption (covered later) because it occurs in areas not covered by swimwear. Microscopic parasites from infected snails that live in the shallow waters of lakes, streams, or the ocean can burrow in the skin. That causes an allergic reaction that looks like tiny red bumps or large welts. The parasites ultimately die in the skin because we are dead-end hosts, but the problem is that these bumps cause intense itching. Relieve the itch by taking an Epsom salt bath or a bath with ground oatmeal. You can also apply baking soda paste to the affected area to soothe the skin.

Heat Rash

Heat rash, or miliaria or prickly heat, occurs when sweat blocks the pores in your skin and starts to build up under the skin. This is a common problem in babies, but it can occur at any age, especially in hot and humid weather. Heat rash usually stings and itches, and you can identify it by small red bumps or clear blisters that break easily. You will see a rash in areas where you sweat more, for example, the armpits, elbows, and groin. Heat rash typically clears on its own, but you can ease itchiness by wearing loose-fitting clothing and cooling off the skin.

Margarita Dermatitis 

Unfortunately, drinking this classic alcoholic beverage that is either frozen or on the rocks will not cause a skin condition. That said, a dribble of citrus juice on the skin, which has been exposed to the sun, can lead to a nasty burn. This burn is known as margarita dermatitis, or phytophotodermatitis. This happens when a photosensitizing compound (furocoumarin) in limes and other citrus fruits, parsley, dill, and celery becomes activated by UVA light. That reaction causes a burning rash that develops within hours. 

It’s possible to develop blisters or red, itchy patches on the skin. Symptoms will be at their worst within two to three days. While the blisters heal, the skin may become darker, which can take months to go away. Just be careful when you handle citrus immediately after being in the sun. 

Polymorphous Light Eruption

If you have a sensitivity to sunlight and expose your skin to UV rays in late spring and early summer, you may break out in itchy, hive-like bumps. This phenomenon is known as polymorphous light eruption (PLE). According to research, PLE affects 10% of the general population. Those affected most likely live in northern versus southern climates. Researchers note that PLE occurs about 75% of the time in females between ages 20 and 40. People with fairer skin are also more susceptible. 

PLE is a hypersensitive reaction to the sun that will typically go away within 10 days. It usually only occurs once each season, when the weather warms up and the skin gets exposed to UV light. It tends to get better over the course of summer, but be careful on beach days or sunny vacations. If you want to relieve the itch, ask your healthcare professional about an anti-itch or antihistamine cream. Severe cases may call for a topical corticosteroid. 

Seabather’s Eruption

If you notice a rash under your swimsuit after a dip in the ocean, you may have seabather’s eruption, or pica-pica (Spanish for “itchy itchy”) or sea lice. This usually occurs when tiny thimble jellyfish and sea anemones get trapped under your swimsuit. They release stinging cells that inject a toxin, which causes an allergic reaction in the skin. You may notice a prickly sensation while swimming, but you’ll notice a reaction within four to 24 hours. It will look like a patch of insect bites or hives under your swimsuit. Make sure to remove your swimsuit and shower immediately after a swim in the ocean. Rinse your suit thoroughly in hot water to remove any remaining organisms, and consider an antihistamine if you notice something. 

Hot Tub Rash

About one to two days after you soak in water contaminated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which is found in the ground and water, you can develop a skin rash: hot tub folliculitis. This skin rash gets its name because it is more common in hot tubs. The reason for that is because hot water breaks down the chlorine that kills bacteria. The rash can also occur after swimming in a contaminated lake or pool. A hot tub rash is characterized by tiny millimeter-sized red bumps that are worse in areas that were covered by the swimsuit. You may notice itchy or tender pimples around hair follicles. The rash usually gets better on its own, but a doctor visit may be necessary if it doesn’t go away within a few days.

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It’s that time of year again, when the holidays are in full swing and the end of the year is approaching. Before you get ahead of yourself, don’t start stressing about the new year. Enjoy the holidays, and then you can start to plan what you’ll do when January 1st approaches. 

A lot of people want to lose weight, eat better, and exercise regularly at the beginning of the year. Weight loss and diet resolutions always top the list, but seldom do people follow through with those goals. Gyms in January look a lot different than they do in March, specifically regarding crowds. The reason that many people give up on their resolutions is because the goals are too lofty, and there is no plan in place. To make “weight loss” your resolution is a nice idea, but there is no structure. Instead, it’s better to say, “I want to lose five pounds in January,” for example. 

The new year isn’t just about exercise and dieting, though. One of the best things to incorporate into your “new year new you” plan is self-care. One could argue that the new year is the perfect time to start fresh with self-care. Self-care is not just bubble baths and time spent reading in a nook. Those things fall into the self-care category, but there is a lot more you can do for your mental health. To prepare you for a successful January, we’ve outlined a list of self-care ideas you can do before the year ends. Let us know if you engage in them before the New Year!

Enjoy Those Holiday Treats

Yes, you should have your holiday cake, and eat it too! Be mindful about the treats you eat, focusing on thoroughly enjoying the couple that you looked forward to all year. You do not have to completely lose all self-control and abandon dietary restrictions, but you should allow yourself to enjoy the holidays without guilt. There is enough guilt to be had from family!

Get Your Home In Order

Holiday clutter is a real thing, and it only builds on any preexisting mess(es) you had in your home. There is no greater feeling than entering the new year with a clean and tidy home. Although cleaning can feel like a chore, it is actually a form of self-care. Even if the actual cleaning process is not enjoyable, the feeling of a clear space helps to boost your mood. That puts you in a great mental space to start the year off right.

Create A New Year Playlist

Listening to music is beneficial on so many levels. It can lift your spirits, amp you up, bring you down, and turn you inside out. Whether you need to pump yourself up or rest and recharge, music can benefit your situation. We recommend that you create a playlist of songs that get you pumped up and motivated to tackle your New Year’s resolutions.

Gratitude For The Year

It can be beneficial to reflect on the year and write down all the things you are grateful for. There is power in gratitude! Sure, there were most likely moments of negativity, stress, or other low points, but good things and highs also happened. Focus on being grateful and flood your mind with positivity. If this ends up being a practice that you enjoy, consider practicing daily gratitude, during which you write down a couple small things you are grateful for every day. 

Move For The Sake Of Movement

Exercise and self-care go hand in hand because you always tend to feel better when you move your body. You don’t have to push yourself to the point of throwing up; rather, a neighborhood walk, playing with your kids in the park, riding your bike, or jumping rope are all great forms of movement. Move your body because it deserves to move! Dance like nobody’s watching, as they say. Consider taking a new class, such as Zumba or Pilates. Find your groove and carry that motivation into the new year. 

Set Your Goals Or Make A Vision Board

This may not be useful for everyone, but it can be for those who love personal development. Spend a day mapping out your goals, hopes, and dreams before the start of the year. We do not recommend doing this once 2025 arrives. Planning out your goals can be very helpful to your future self. Additionally, nothing says self-care quite like planning out the goals you want to achieve or things to happen in the year to come.

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The post Self-Care Ideas To Get You Ready For The New Year appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Essential oils have numerous health benefits and can be incredibly relaxing. Used in both aromatherapy and skin care, essential oils can help you create spa-like experiences in your very own home. Treat your feet right with an invigorating peppermint foot cream and slough away dead skin cells with a DIY sugar scrub. You can even use whipped body butter to establish a smooth skin tone. 

Although the aromatherapy shower mist recipe in this article doesn’t turn back the hands of time, it can transform your shower into a full-on steam room. Spray the mist in your steamy shower and the aromas will transport you to a relaxing oasis. The best part is that you don’t even have to leave your bathroom!

Typically, spa scents are made with a custom blend of essential oils. Because you are making this aromatherapy blend, you can also customize to your liking. If you prefer more eucalyptus essential oil than peppermint essential oil, alter the recipe. You can also use essential oils that help contribute to more alertness and energy to help you get your day started. A relaxing blend of essential oils, including lavender essential oil, may be beneficial for winding down before bed. 

What Is A Shower Mist?

A shower mist is basically a spray that you spritz into the water or steam of the shower, which transforms it into a spa-like experience. The steam from the hot water creates a natural diffuser, spreading the aromas of the essential oils in the shower air. While showering, you’re surrounded by the shower steam and an amazing fragrance. 

A shower mist is about more than a pleasant aroma, though. The essential oils in the shower mist have therapeutic properties, which you benefit from during your steamy shower. A few spritzes in your shower may help relax the body, calm the mind, wake you up, lift your spirits, regulate emotions, and rejuvenate your senses. 

Shower Mist Vs. Shower Steamer

You may have heard of a shower steamer. In fact, you can click here for our DIY recipe! They are scented discs that you place on the shower floor. As hot water flows onto them, they release their aroma into the shower air. A shower steamer is very similar to a shower mist, as both release the aromas from essential oils that you choose. Shower steamers are not for everyone, though, especially if you use oils or butters to make them. They can cause the shower floor to become a bit slippery, which is dangerous if your balance is not 100%. 

A shower mist is also a lot easier to make. All you have to do is pour the ingredients in a bottle, screw on the cap, shake the bottle up, and you are good to go. A shower mist also does not depend on humidity, so you can use the same recipe whether the humidity level is 0% or 100%. Shower steamers are a lot harder to make if you live in a humid environment. Finally, there is no setting time for a shower mist. Use it as soon as you make it, unlike shower steamers, which occasionally take days to set. 

DIY Shower Mist

Ingredients:

• 20 drops lavender essential oil
• 15 drops orange essential oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 1/4 cup high-proof grade alcohol (such as Everclear)
• Distilled water

Instructions:

• Add the essential oils to an eight-ounce spray bottle and then pour in the high-proof grade alcohol. 
• Should you choose to use other essential oils, that is also fine. The general recommendation for this recipe is 30-40 drops of essential oils. You can keep the high-proof grade alcohol and distilled water measurements the same in that eight-ounce bottle.
• Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water (leaving a small amount of space at the top to prevent overflowing), screw on the cap, and shake well to combine. 
• Put your spray to use! Spritz the shower mist in your hot shower and reap the benefits.

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