A pair of socks, stainless steel water bottle or a set of ankle weights are all great stocking stuffers for the fitness fanatic on your list. But to show someone that you really pay attention to their passion, why not give something homemade that will enhance their active lifestyle? These DIY creations whip up quickly and will be useful to anyone who spends time at the gym or puts effort into taking care of their body and appearance.
Refreshing Spray Toner
Give this gift to friends who work out to toss in their gym bags and use whenever they need a quick refresh. Witch hazel is a wonderful natural astringent that can help clean oil, dirt and impurities from the skin, and lavender essential oil has calming and purifying effects.
Ingredients
1 tsp. witch hazel
5 drops lavender essential oil
1 cup of distilled water
Directions
In decorative glass, ceramic or BPA-free spray bottle, combine all ingredients and shake to mix.
Dry shampoo
Dry shampoo is useful when there’s no time to wash your hair (especially after a work out!). Package this creation in a small glass jar, and attach a medium-sized makeup brush – used for application – with a festive ribbon.
Ingredients
1/4 cup arrowroot powder or organic cornstarch
OR 2 Tbsp. arrowroot/cornstarch + 2 Tbsp. cocoa powder
5 drops essential oil of choice
Directions
In small glass jar, mix together cornstarch or arrowroot powder (or mixture).
How to use: Dry shampoo is always applied at the roots of the hair. Use a brush or a comb and separate sections of your hair, shaking the powder onto your scalp. Massage the powder into your hair and let it sit for approximately two minutes–just enough time to absorb excess oil! When you’re finished, brush the dry shampoo through your hair until it is no longer visible.
Exfoliating scrubs
Nothing feels better after a workout then to use an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin, sweat and oil. Here are two options: one for your face and one for your entire body.
Facial scrub
Grapefruit contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that works to combat damage to skin caused by free radicals (which are generated during exercise!). Avocado oil is a light, nourishing oil that will help leave skin soft and refreshed without clogging pores.
Ingredients
1 cup organic sugar
1/2 grapefruit, squeezed
3 Tbsp. avocado oil
Directions
In small glass jar, fold together all ingredients. (Note: Be sure to gently fold mixture instead of mixing, which can cause sugar to dissolve.
Body scrub
Coffee is another natural plant source of antioxidants, which can help protect skin from free-radical damage. It may also have an energizing and tightening effects, potentially helping to reduce the appearance of cellulite. Coconut oil provides deep moisture and leaves skin feeling silky soft and smooth.
Ingredients
1/2 cup organic sugar
1 cup coconut oil
1/2 cup ground coffee
Directions
In glass gar, mix together all ingredients, using hands instead of a spoon. The warmth from your hands helps to melt and incorporate the coconut oil.