Mercredi: The Art of Beauty

We talked about cleansing our personal space last week and I’ve been thinking about that.  While it’s always good to undertake a cleansing ritual now and again, sometimes what we really need is to clear our head and start our thinking process with fresh eyes.  One of my favorite ways to do this, particularly if I am faced with a life altering decision, is with a ritual shampoo. 

Easy to make and an effective cleanser, this recipe was originally in a Better Homes and Gardens magazine article from the ‘90s.   You will note that the base is liquid Castile soap which is usually available in the beauty aisle of the health food sections of major grocery chains.  Originating from Medieval Spain, Castile soap is one of the mildest cleansers available.  All Castile soaps are still made with vegetable oil, so you should not expect to get the frothy lather that you would get with store-bought shampoos.  The clean feeling is just as satisfying, though, and maybe more so with my addition of three essential oils to help clear your head and get you thinking about the right choices for you.  Here’s what you’ll need:

3 oz sparkling water or club soda (for effervescence)  

2 oz liquid Castile soap (to cleanse)

2 drops lavender essential oil (for calm, clear thinking)

2 drops sandalwood essential oil (for protection & healing)

3 drops rosemary essential oil (to invigorate your mind & spirit)

2 tbsps apple cider vinegar (to banish negativity & add shine & gloss to hair)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and place in a plastic bottle.  Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, you may be able to get two or three shampoos out of this mixture.  I have long, fairly thick hair and this recipe makes enough for me to get my hair thoroughly clean – and my brain thoroughly clear – once.  Hopefully that’s all I need.  A votre santé ~

Header: Portrait of a Lady as a Muse by Richard Cosway c 1804 via Old Paint