Looking for the perfect way to unwind from holiday shopping?
Jodi Davis
| 2 min read
Holiday shopping can take a toll on your body. Many of us will find ourselves exhausted from last-minute holiday shopping which tends to create stress that frequently leads to numerous body aches and pains. I can’t think of a better time to treat a sore, tired, tense and knotted body than now – by enjoying a body massage. A massage will allow you to miraculously unwind, relax and nurture yourself after a long day at the mall. And if you shop anything like I do, boy-oh-boy do you ever need one!
A massage is also very good for your health as well. Massage is known to promote overall wellness along with giving relief to those sore and achy muscles. Millions of adults enjoy a therapeutic massage each year; in fact, there are several types of massage therapy styles to choose from: Deep Tissue, Shiatsu, Hot Stone, Reflexology and Thai just to name a few. There are some types of massages that actually offer additional health benefits such as alleviating head or severe back pain.
And don’t worry if you don’t have the time or the energy to leave the home for a massage, a significant other can give you a de-stressing massage as well. Below is a simple mint-chocolate massage butter recipe below that is naturally scented and very moisturizing to dry and tired skin. This massage butter is not sticky at all and the scent will help refresh all of your senses.
Mint Chocolate Massage Butter
Makes about 1/2 cup
Ingredients:
2 T almond oil (or other lightly scented oil)
2 T coconut oil
3 T Cocoa Butter, grated
1 T 70% Cocoa or higher dark chocolate or cocoa powder
1 tsp honey
5-8 drops peppermint essential oil
2 T coconut oil
3 T Cocoa Butter, grated
1 T 70% Cocoa or higher dark chocolate or cocoa powder
1 tsp honey
5-8 drops peppermint essential oil
Directions:
Use a microwave or double boiler on low heat to melt all ingredients except essential oil. Mix ingredients well and add essential oils (orange is a very popular choice.) Store the massage butter in glass jar.
Note that if you are finding it difficult to decide what to get for those hard-to-buy-for individuals on your gift list, a massage therapy gift certificate makes a wonderful present. If you want to go the extra mile, mix up some mint-chocolate massage butter for the recipient as well.
During this busy holiday season I remind you to please- take time to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures in your life. I wish you and yours a happy and healthy holiday season! ~Jodi
Photo credit: FoundryParkInn
