A lot goes down in the shower alongside the usual scrubbing, washing, deep-conditioning and shaving. It’s where we develop mental lists, rehearse imaginary arguments (just me?) and come up with the next Shark Tank worthy biz idea. Done well, your shower should also serve as a few precious moments of escape from everyday life, and perhaps even an opportunity to meditate, if you’re so inclined.
Enter eucalyptus: the simple, cheap addition that can leave you more refreshed and relaxed from a shower than you ever thought possible. Eucalyptus oil is known to help open up the nasal passages (hello, cold and flu season), boost immunity, and even alleviate stress and anxiety.
Treat yourself to an invigorating experience with three easy eucalyptus DIYs to elevate your shower:
Eucalyptus Shower Spritz
Image via A Bubbly Life
Spritz your way to a scent-sational shower with a bottle of bliss.
Supplies:
- Distilled water
- Eucalyptus oil
- Spray bottle (if using glass, be careful in the shower as glass can get slippery)
Directions:
Mix distilled water and eucalyptus oil together in a spray bottle, starting with about two cap sizes of oil for every 16 ounces of water. Spray in the shower, breathe in deeply, and relax.
Peppermint & Eucalyptus Shower Melts
Image and recipe via A Beautiful Mess
Pop these luxurious melts in the shower for an invigorating aroma.
Supplies:
- Cornstarch
- Baking soda
- Witch hazel
- Peppermint, eucalyptus & orange essential oils
- Silicone mold
- Food coloring (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of cornstarch. Stir.
- Slowly add 5 tablespoons of witch hazel to your mixture, making sure you get out any lumps. Once combined, add in a drop of food coloring if desired. If your mixture seems a little dry and hard to stir, add just a touch more of witch hazel. Finish by adding in 5 drops of orange, 10 drops of peppermint and 6 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to your shower melts.
- Once everything is combined, use a spoon to fill your silicone mold. (This recipe made 8 small stars).
- Put your shower melts in the freezer overnight to harden. Keep in a cool place like the fridge to prevent them from melting. When you’re ready to use your melts, simply put them in your shower away from direct water so it can melt slowly. For an added boost of scent, add an extra 1-2 drops of essential oil to your shower melt once it’s in the shower.
Hanging Eucalyptus Bundle
Image via Free People Blog
Heat and steam work to activate the natural oils of eucalyptus, invigorating the senses with a touch of nature.
Supplies:
- Fresh eucalyptus
- Natural garden twine
Directions:
Bundle branches together, tie up with twine, then hang from the shower rod or shower head. Breathe in deep, and enjoy for a few weeks!