A Moment of Calm
Three ways to look after yourself when you need a bit of extra TLC.
There’s a lot going on in the world right now that’s weighing heavily on our hearts and minds. Sometimes, it can be hard to find solace amid all of the commotion or to spot that sliver of sunshine peeking through the clouds. It’s on these days we need to consider not only how we can be of service to others, but also how we can better take care of ourselves. Our mental and physical health are inextricably intertwined and when one is neglected, the other surely follows suit.
The three products in this week’s edition lend themselves perfectly to those self-care moments, helping you recharge your batteries for everything else left on your to-do list. Each one is a refined way to show yourself some love so you can then pass that love on to others.
Take a breath. Take what you need.
1. Naturallogic Atmosphere Balance + Clarify Nutrient Mist ($48)
I wear my stress all over my face. While not all toners are created equal (i.e. they actually do something) I’ve found a few gems. One of them is this formula from Toni Ann Barandon’s holistic skincare line Naturallogic. The blend of ingredients includes hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, green tea, burdock root and willow bark to reduce inflammation, provide antioxidant protection and hydrate. And while I typically find toners with witch hazel to be too drying, this one I’ve used nightly—even with retinol—without any issues. It’s packaged in glass and has a soothing, not astringent scent.
2. Natori Robes and Kimonos (£54 and up)
Putting on a robe is an essential part of my morning and nighttime rituals. One of my most cherished robes is a beautiful, silky one from Natori given to me as a wedding present. I often pack it for vacations in lieu of hotel robes because it just makes me feel at home. Founder and CEO Josie Cruz Natori (pictured above) was born and raised in the Philippines, which continues to inspire her line of apparel, accessories and home goods. With all of the rich, vibrant patterns she uses (like this one), I couldn’t agree more with her description of Natori as “where life meets art.”
3. Zara Home XXL Poetic Mind Scented Candle (£79)
I got very into scented candles during quarantine. Working from home, we needed something to signal it was time to shut down our computers and unwind. So, I started lighting a scented candle every day around 6 p.m. and it’s a habit that stuck. Made with 100% vegetable wax, this candle from Spanish megabrand Zara is a whopping 3.6 KG, perfect for a larger room or to fill an entire studio apartment with fragrance (for the same price as a much smaller designer candle). The notes include jasmine, magnolia and lemon zest along with woodier ones to balance out the florals.
Something to think about …
The people of Haiti have just experienced another devastating and deadly earthquake. Founded by JoAnne M. Kuehner, Hope for Haiti has been working to improve the lives of Haitians for three decades, with a special emphasis on the wellbeing of the nation’s children.