I’ve always enjoyed Valentine’s Day, but for me it’s never really been about the chocolate or flowers. Growing up on the east coast, vday always signified that spring and warm weather were (somewhat) on the horizon.  I continue to use vday as an optimist reminder that it will soon be warm and sunny again. Until then, I routinely enact self-care routines that keep me warm, rejuvenated and relaxed – even on the most subarctic NYC days.  Below are a few of my go-to self-care tools – pick your favorites and share what works with a friend, because sharing is caring.

 

Pink Salt Lamp: this was one of my first purchases for my new Brooklyn apartment. Beyond its calming pink glow, this himalayan salt lamp helps to purify the air and neutralize the effects of electronic devices.

 

CAP Beauty Pink Salt: speaking of salt, CAP’s Pink Mountain Salt is a pantry staple for me. It helps with remineralization in the body, and it’s as good sprinkled on savory dishes as it is sweet. I barely bother putting the lid on as I’m constantly reaching for a pinch.

 

Zenbunni Holy Smoke: a significant memory from my trip to Bali this past spring was the ever-present scent of incense. The Hindu people burn incense multiple times throughout the day as part of their daily rituals and offerings, and it creates a beautiful and serene vibe, even when walking down busy city streets.  This indonesian incense from Zenbunni calms me and brings me right back to Ubud.

 

Rose Quartz Gua Sha: when I’m not researching new kitchen tools, I love to see what new developments are emerging in the natural beauty market.  I’ve long been fascinated by the use of rose quartz for skin. This gua sha is dainty, easy to use and has become a soothing part of my evening skincare ritual.

 

True Botanicals Resurfacing Moisture Mask: often before using my gua sha, I’ll prime my skin with this resurfacing mask from True Botanicals. It hits on all the high notes – exfoliating, hydrating, and brightening.  Even my bf will comment on how glowy my skin looks after applying this secret weapon. (I’m pretty obsessed so I asked them for a discount code so you could try – use LILYTRUE20 for $20 off your first order!)

 

Coco Rose Body Scrub: I love nothing more than taking a hot bath to decompress at the end of a long winter day. This Coco Rose body scrub works wonders on my skin (helping to beat winter dryness) and leaves my bathroom smelling amazing.  If i’m feeling extra decadent, I’ll pair it with a rose tea or coconut-butter infused elixir to sip on while I soak.

 

Daughter of the Land Shampoo + Body Bar: for those days when I’m rushing and opt for a quick shower, this multi-purpose shampoo + body bar cleans my hair and body, smells amazing, and the goat milk leaves my skin extra soft.

 

Activated Charcoal Toothpaste: I’ve been meaning to try this for a while now! It’s fluoride free, non-GMO, and helps to whiten your teeth without all the added ingredients from commercial whitening pastes.  

Organic Linen Bedding: I’m obsessed with these 100% European flax sheets from Parachute. Is there really anything better than new sheets?

Sometimes the best self care is spending time alone, other times it’s inviting over a friend over for goji lattes and cookies. Either way, hope you find a little time for self care and sharing one of these uplifting gifts with a friend! Xx