The holidays are really a wonderful time for joy and gratitude, but they also seem to bring up stress around gift buying, giving, and exchanging. 

When it comes to gift-giving, I’m a sucker for homemade items.

I’ve always believed it’s the thought that counts, and the best gift you can give yourself and others, is you and your gifts and talents.

Anyone you’re thinking of gifting to would be happy to receive a handmade gift from you, or even more, time spent with you.  If you’re looking for something special, I have a special recipe to share with you.  Gather your friends and make these together!

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups coconut oil
• 1 cup beeswax
• 1 cup shea butter
• 30 drops essential oil of choice

How to Make Lotion Bars

1. Combine all ingredients except essential oils in a double boiler, or a saucepan over low heat. Tip: I use an old pot for anytime I make lotion bars so I don’t need to worry about getting it spotless from the greasy oils
   and wax when I’m done.

1. Stir ingredients constantly until they are melted.
2. Remove from heat and pour into molds (silicone molds work well as theycan be easily removed – you can also pour into a baking dish and cut into squares).
3. Allow the mixture to begin cooling, but before they harden, add the essential oils.
4. Allow the lotion bars to cool completely before popping out of molds.

Note: Adjust the recipe if you want to make fewer or more bars. This recipe makes about 24 bars (about 3″ x 3″).

Essential Oil Recommendations

• Wintergreen + Cypress (circulation, healthy inflammatory response)
• Wild Orange + Cassia (immune boost, circulation, warming)
• Lavender + Eucalyptus (relaxing, soothing to skin, respiratory support)