In today’s stress filled world, it’s critical to carve out a little “me” time and take responsibility for your spiritual and physical well-being. A clean diet and consistent yoga practice are great ways to relax and rejuvenate the mind and body producing significant psychological benefits.  But what about being nurtured from the outside in?  Not only do weekly mani/pedis and regular facials make you feel glamorous, but they keep you looking your best too.  Unfortunately, your schedule and/or budget may not always allow for such indulgences.  But what if you were able to create a near-professional spa experience in your very own home? To indulge yourself from head to toe, all you really need is a quick run through your kitchen (or a trip to Whole Foods) to create all-natural, antioxidant packed spa treatments.  While there is no substitute for being pampered by a professional, you can easily create your own personal mini-spa with 3 key ingredients — avocados, grapes & honey.  Here are some easy, DIY recipes to whip up for your day of beauty.

Avocado oil is a great source of lecithin. When applied topically, lecithin forms a protective covering on your hair follicles, which prevents moisture-loss due to wind and climate damage. Avocado oil is also high in sterolin, which moisturizes both hair and skin.

Deep Conditioning Avocado Hair Mask

1 ripe avocado

2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt

1 egg

½ tsp rosemary oil

1 tbsp jojoba oil

Blend all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth.  Be sure to mix well so there aren’t any lumps.  Separate hair into sections.  Apply the mixture to one section at a time beginning at your scalp then working your way down towards the ends. Comb through with your fingers to distribute evenly.  Leave in for 20 minutes.  Rinse the mask out completely before shampooing and conditioning.

Grape seed oil is a very powerful antioxidant.  It is light and finely textured containing linoleic acid.  Linoleic acid is very important for the health of the skin because of its anti-inflammatory, acne reductive and moisture retentive properties.

Anti-Aging Grape Facial Mask

½ cup of green grapes.

½ of an avocado

1 tbsp pure aloe vera gel.

Puree both the grapes and avocado to form a thick paste. Add the aloe vera gel and blend all ingredients together until the mixture takes on a creamy texture. Lightly dampen your face and apply a thin, even layer onto your skin.  Be sure to wash your face prior to applying mask.  Leave mask on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with cool water and apply your favorite moisturizer.

Honey is a great natural moisturizer for parched skin.  It has hygroscopic properties, which means it naturally absorbs and retains moisture from the air. When applied topically, honey aids in rebuilding the moisture level in skin without making it oily. This is particularly important during the winter months.

Honey Body Scrub

1 tsp. pure honey

1/4 cup almond oil

1 cup raw or granulated sugar

2 tsp. fresh citrus zest

1 tsp. of Vitamin E

Combine almond oil, Vitamin E, honey and sugar in a bowl and mix well.  Mix in the zest as your final ingredient.  Apply a small scoop and gently scrub with water in circular motions.  Double the recipe and store remaining product in a mason jar in your shower.