| Get Into It! Spring - Summer 2008 |
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How can we use herbs to positively pamper our bodies in a natural way? Denise Springer, a Reiki therapist and advocate for personal self-care, gives the following suggestions:
Fragrant Bath Bag
Try experimenting with your favorite fragrant herbs to make a bath bag. I use about 1/4 cup of marjoram, 2 tablespoons of mint, and 2 tablespoons of lavender. Cut the quantities in half if using dried herbs.
You will probably be able to find a small muslin bath bag with a drawstring at the top in your favorite craft store. If not, simply tie the herbs up securely in a square of muslin. Steep the bag in a quart of boiling water for 15 to 20 minutes, then allow to cool. Add the water and the bag to your bath water.
Peppermint Skin Toner
1 pint vinegar
1 pint purified water
1 cup mint leaves
Place all ingredients in a glass or enamel saucepan and bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Pour into a glass jar and allow to steep for four days. Strain and bottle.
Thyme Bath or Foot Soak
This is the herb to use after a long hot day in the garden because it helps to deodorize the body. You can also use it in a foot soak to help with tired, stinky feet. To use, steep a handful of mixed thyme and rosemary in a quart of boiling water for 15 minutes, cool, and add to the bath or foot soak.
For more superb herbs visit Seed of the Soul online at www.xanga.com/seedofthesoul
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