Sip on hibiscus water for a better night’s sleep
struggling with sleep? Give hibiscus water a try! Also known as hibiscus tea or agua de jamaica (which translate to hibiscus water), hibiscus water is made from the dried outer pods or sepals of tropical Hibiscus sabdariffa flowers. With a tart, cranberry-like flavor, this unique drink is traditionally served cold and sweetened (but can also be served hot and without any added sweetener if you don’t mind the sour taste). Hibiscus water is a rich source of polyphenols and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which has been shown to lower inflammation in the body.
In terms of its use as a sleep aid, studies have shown there may be a positive relationship between consuming hibiscus and increased time spent in REM sleep. Avoiding caffeinated beverages before bedtime and replacing them with non-caffeinated drinks is also linked to improved sleep quality. Even though research about hibiscus water’s impact on sleep is still limited, comforting bedtime routines, such as sipping a cup of hibiscus water, are a positive step towards getting a good night’s rest.
Grow your yoga practice (and your hair!)
Regular yoga practice has many well-known benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and increased self-awareness, but it’s not until recently that hair growth has been added to the list. Although research directly linking the two is somewhat tenuous, healthy hair growth relies on blood circulation, which helps to nourish your hair follicles. Moderate to intense yoga improves blood oxygenation and promotes the distribution of nutrients among all blood vessels, which in turn increases your heart rate leading to better circulation.
Calming yoga exercises, however, reduce stress, and can help lower cortisol and adrenaline levels. This makes yoga a promising practice for controlling hair loss or thinning due to telogen effluvium (temporary hair loss caused by emotional or physical stress).
Ice, ice (facial) baby!
Ice facials are the summer’s coolest DIY skin treatment—and all you need is an ice cube! While the benefits of ice facials aren’t backed by research, fans of this method swear by its ability to reduce inflammation, lessen the appearance of under-eye puffiness, brighten overall complexion, and heal acne. So how does it work? According to dermatologists, briefly and gently applying ice to the skin drains built-up fluid and toxins from the facial lymph nodes, creating a tightening effect and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Treat yourself to a quick ice facial by applying ice to clean skin for a maximum of one minute per application. To prevent skin damage, wrap the ice in cloth, wait a few minutes between each application, and practice in moderation. Try aloe ice cubes for sunburnt skin or green tea ice cubes to target acne, eczema, and rosacea.
Japandi design: where East meets West
A classic architectural and design style that dates back all the way to the 1850s, Japandi design is back in the spotlight. The Japandi aesthetic combines Scandinavian concepts of hygge, which emphasizes coziness and contentment, and Japanese wabi-sabi, which is based on the acceptance and appreciation of imperfection. This style incorporates natural materials such as wood, stone, and paper; clean lines; functional décor such as vases, tea pots, and books; natural light; neutral colors; and minimal clutter. Research has shown that clutter is linked to stress and dissatisfaction, and that positive engagement with home surroundings has the potential to improve quality of life.
Whether decorative or architectural, a major component of Japandi design is the use of high quality and sustainable materials or items. High-quality housewares may have higher upfront cost but are much more likely to last a lifetime. There’s no need to buy new, either—studies show that sourcing secondhand items (and buying less in general) can be more sustainable than buying new environmentally friendly products.
