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5 ways to pamper your mum for Mother’s Day

<p>Special occasions seem to come around so often that it can be hard to come up with new and thoughtful gift ideas. Here are five ways to lavish your love on your mum on <a href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/gifts/mothers-day-gifts?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=MothersDayGifts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mother’s Day</a> that don’t require you to leave the house.</p> <p><strong>1. Home spa treatment</strong></p> <p>Home spa treatments are a thoughtful and relaxing way to express your love to your mum. <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/beauty-style/2014/11/diy-beauty-treatments/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Over60’s favourite inexpensive DIY beauty treatment</span></strong></a> includes a face mask and foot treatment. To make your mum feel even more valued during her home spa treatment, gift her with a <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/robes/products/deco-by-linen-house-adult-bath-robe-super-soft?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-adult-bath-robe&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=adult-bath-robe" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">new bathrobe</span></strong></a> as a present. She can wear her bathrobe as her day of pampering continues and it will definitely be a gift she can get good use out of.</p> <p><strong>2. Make her breakfast or brunch</strong></p> <p>Start Mother’s Day by spoiling your mum with her favourite breakfast. There is no better way to wake up in the morning than with the smell of your favourite hot breakfast cooking away in the kitchen. Don’t let your mum lift a finger and be sure to make the environment as calm and relaxing for her as possible as she enjoys her breakfast with you.</p> <p><strong>3. Perfect pillow</strong></p> <p>If your mum refuses to accept a gift for Mother’s Day this surprise present idea is perfect. Buy your mum a <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-bedroom&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">luxurious bedtime gift</span></strong></a> that you can leave on her bed. One of our favourite ideas is buying <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom/products/linen-house-exceed-standard-medium-pillow-900gsm?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-exceed-standard-medium-pillow&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=exceed-standard-medium-pillow" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>a new pillow</strong></span></a> and <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/bedroom/products/linen-house-standard-pillowcase-elka?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-standard-pillowcase-elka&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=standard-pillowcase-elka" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>pillowcase</strong></span></a> and leaving it on her bed to find just before she goes to sleep. You can also leave a mint on the pillow to add a small but thoughtful touch to the idea.</p> <p><strong>4. Involve the family</strong></p> <p>Days like Mother’s Day are a wonderful opportunity to not only honour mothers but also bring the family together to create memories. Involve younger children in your family by having them bring hand-picked flowers to your mum or gift a home craft activity like beaded jewellery. </p> <p><strong>5. Make sure she spends the day relaxing</strong></p> <p>If your mum loves it when people do an act of service for her, then be sure to help around the house and do any chores that need to be done for her. Whether that be the washing or vacuuming, lend a helping hand and let her spend the day relaxing on her special day.</p> <p><em><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">For more brilliant gift ideas for Mum, check out the full range of </span><a style="box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; color: #d90000; text-decoration-line: none; background-color: #ffffff;" href="https://www.innovations.com.au/p/gifts/mothers-day-gifts?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=nativearticle&amp;utm_campaign=MothersDayGifts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Innovations Mother’s Day Gift Ideas here</a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">.</span></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Raleway, sans-serif, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Image: Midjourney</span></strong></em></p>

Home & Garden

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Pamper your pets this winter with Smiley Dog

<p dir="ltr">As colder months continue to wreak havoc on our skin throughout brutal winters, it’s a no brainer that we all turn to our skincare products for a little extra help. </p> <p dir="ltr">When nourishing our own skin from the harsh winter elements, the skin of our pets deserves the same care and attention.</p> <p dir="ltr">Australian-owned brand Smiley Dog provides a range of natural and organic grooming products that will make your furry bestie look, feel and smell their very best. Being used and trusted by professional dog groomers all over the country, their range is made with the best quality ingredients catering to all types of coats and different skin sensitivities. </p> <p dir="ltr"> Smiley Dog have just released their new specially formulated Organic Seaweed &amp; Minerals range, as they understand that dog skin becomes dehydrated in cooler weather, the same way our skin does. Although human skin and canine skin differ in turnover rate and thickness, both experience moisture loss during winter that is exacerbated by cold wind and artificial heating.</p> <p dir="ltr">Seaweed has long been used in skincare products for its super hydrating and moisturising properties as the humectants found in seaweed draw in moisture from surrounding environments. Working hard to not only provide added hydration but also prevent the loss of moisture, the Seaweed &amp; Minerals range by Smiley Dog is pH balanced specifically for canine skin so our furry friends can enjoy the same benefits of seaweed in skincare that we do.</p> <p dir="ltr"> For over a decade, Smiley Dog has been the preferred natural and organic shampoo and conditioner provider for Australia’s leading professional dog groomers. With Australia having one of the highest household rates of pet ownership (<a href="https://www.vetvoice.com.au/ec/pet-ownership/pet-ownership-statistics/#:~:text=At%2062%25%2C%20Australia%20continues%20to,3.6%20million)%20owning%20a%20dog">5.7million Australian households in 2016</a>) and dogs remaining the most popular pet with <a href="https://www.vetvoice.com.au/ec/pet-ownership/pet-ownership-statistics/#:~:text=At%2062%25%2C%20Australia%20continues%20to,3.6%20million)%20owning%20a%20dog">3.6 million owing a dog</a>, Smiley Dog have released their products in retail size for home use.</p> <p dir="ltr"> The new Organic Seaweed &amp; Minerals range contains a 250ml Shampoo, 250ml Conditioner and matching 30ml Cologne for $44.95 RRP. The range rejuvenates, repairs and re-conditions the skin and coat while aiding in the reduction of inflammation. It is suitable for all breeds, coats and skin types (including sensitive) and is suitable for use with long-term flea control treatments. </p> <p dir="ltr">Smiley Dog have an extensive range including variety packs and gift sets which can be found on their <a href="https://www.smileydog.com.au/">website.</a> </p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1613a07f-7fff-0d99-96e0-adb926207ec0"></span></p> <p dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; background-color: #ffffff; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><em> Image: Supplied</em></p>

Family & Pets

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The luxury pet-friendly hotels taking pampering to new heights

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Although many might not think to bring their dogs along to a luxury hotel, many of Australia’s top hotels are expanding their range to include your four-legged friend in your hotel experience.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some hotels are offering tasting menus, room service and even mini-bar snacks.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We know that travel looks different for each guest, and that people are now travelling with multiple generations of family, friends and even their pets,” says Harry Singh, the general manager of Elements Melbourne to </span><a href="https://thenewdaily.com.au/life/travel/2019/07/19/luxury-hotels-pets-australia/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">The New Daily</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Even with hotels charging on average about $50 to $90 to accommodate pets as well as one off cleaning fees of up to $150, this isn’t deterring people from bringing their pets along.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The option to bring along a furry friend has been super popular,” says Daniel Meek, manager of Brisbane’s Ovolo The Valley.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“We’ve welcomed numerous puppies from the smallest of chihuahuas through to rottweilers and everything in between. We certainly don’t discriminate and have also welcomed some extra cute and cuddly felines. We haven’t had any issues at all so far with any of our pet guests.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Different hotels offer different experiences. At Canberra’s Mercure Hotel, you can dine with your dog in front of the fireplace whereas at Vibe Hotel at Rushcutters, there is a specialised “doggy deck” with an animal nutritionist developed “dogustation” menu that includes puppycinos. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Sydney’s five-star Langham, guests have included parrots, rabbits, lizards and even a teacup pig to their hotel room since the hotel opened in 2014. Langham have capitalised on this opportunity by offering Langham branded beds, collars, leashes, food and water bowls as well as balls.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">However, if you’re looking to save money, it’s probably best to leave your four-legged at home as it’s infinitely more costly. </span></p>

Family & Pets

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8 cheap and easy ways to pamper yourself

<p>If you love the idea of being able to pamper yourself at home without spending a fortune, read on.</p> <p>We’ve got eight ways to relax and rejuvenate, all in the comfort of your own home (BYO fluffy robes).</p> <p>Relaxation is not just nice, it’s actually essential for a healthy lifestyle. Having downtime allows our body to repair itself, and also decreases stress.</p> <p><strong>1. Eat out for less</strong></p> <p>Whether it’s online websites such as Dimmi (for restaurant discounts), shop-a-dockets (for cafes and take away style offers), or the Entertainment Book (for everything from restaurants to experiences), there are discounts to be found if you know where to look.</p> <p><strong>2. Let students practise on you</strong></p> <p>There are always deals to be had if you let a student cut your hair, give you a facial, or cut and colour your hair. Often for a nominal fee you can enjoy the treatments, knowing that the student is being closely supervised by their teacher.</p> <p><strong>3. Cook a decadent dessert</strong></p> <p>Peruse your favourite recipe books, or jump online and find a recipe that you’re keen to try. Buy good quality ingredients and spend the time enjoying the process of cooking and baking (as well as eating, of course). It can be even more fun to share a dessert with a partner or friend.</p> <p><strong>4. Deep condition your hair</strong></p> <p>The chemist and supermarket have a great range of leave in conditioning masks or hot oil treatments that you can easily do at home. Get the shine back in your locks with a half hour soak in the tub while the products set to work.</p> <p><strong>5. Grab a load of magazines</strong></p> <p>You could spend a small fortune on mags if you wanted to, but did you know that your local library is a great resource? If you love cooking magazines for instance, pop to the library and grab a handful of past issues of your favourite title. Then spend an evening perusing them at your leisure.</p> <p><strong>6. Treat yourself to a manicure kit</strong></p> <p>If you love having your fingernails and toenails done, invest in a small kit of tools so that you can do it yourself at home. Spend the money on some good quality polish too, and you can have great nails every day of the year for a fraction of the cost of a manicure.</p> <p><strong>7. Swap houses with a friend</strong></p> <p>Not all of us can afford a weekend getaway in a fancy hotel. But living like a tourist in a friend’s house (even if they live close by) can be a lot of fun. Treat each other like a ‘real’ hotel guest, with fresh linen and a welcoming bottle of wine. Leave notes for great local spots for coffee or fish and chips.</p> <p><strong>8. Take a candlelit bath</strong></p> <p>It’s not just a cliché, a warm bath really helps to relax you. Turn out the lights and put on some candles and nice music to really help you get into the zone.</p> <p>Have we missed any great (cheap) ways to relax? We would love to hear from you in the comments.</p>

Beauty & Style

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Pamper mum with this simple spa treatment

<p><em><strong>Samantha Sargent, distributor of <a href="http://www.energisedorganics.com" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">AEOS</span></a> and natural beauty expert.</strong></em></p> <p>A mother’s touch and love is unrivalled compared to most relationships. So, when Mother’s Day comes around each year most of us become overwhelmed with the thought of buying a gift that doesn't compare to what our mothers, grandmothers and other inspiring women in our lives, have done and given us. </p> <p>The act of loving presence is one of the most powerful gifts you can give, and one that is too often forgotten. Being fully present is such a powerful, more intimate, meaningful and rare gift to give a mother and is precious when time may be of the essence.</p> <p>Give mindful gifts that can be used together, as a bonding experience or assist in the quality of the time spent with each other. This DIY hand treatment is the perfect gift.</p> <p><strong>Top tips for the best at-home manicure and hand massage for the special women in your life this Mother’s Day</strong></p> <p>1. Set up a sanctuary in her living room with a soft towel and your favourite essential oil blend burning.</p> <p>2. Make a little pot of calming herbal tea and a bowl of warm water scented with essential oils to rest your hands in.</p> <p>3. Shape the nails with a crystal nail file. Metal files and emery boards tear the nail as they file, leaving rough, sharp edges. The crystal file glides across the nail tip so you can quickly and easily shape your nail to a flawless, smooth finish. Crystal files seal the nail tip as you file, preventing water, dirt and debris from seeping into the nail tip.</p> <p>4. Rest your mum’s hands in the warm “bath” and focus on your breathing for a couple of minutes, breathing out any worries, and breathing in relaxation and the scent of pure essential oils.</p> <p>5. Remove the hands from the water and gently pat dry. Apply a nourishing natural and organic hand cream, such as the AEOS enriching spelt hand cream, to her hands and forearms, paying particular attention to the cuticles. This is a beautiful opportunity to gift your mum a mini massage to help further alleviate any stress or tension.</p> <p>6. Optional (if you like a splash of colour): Apply two coats of nail lacquer. Remember to choose a toxin-free nail lacquer brand that is free from formaldehyde, toluene, DBP, camphor and animal derivatives. To maintain a perfectly polished mani, keep the AEOS Biodynamic Nail &amp; Cuticle Oil in your handbag and apply each day when you have a spare moment.</p>

Beauty & Style

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Pamper yourself with an at-home facial

<p>While nipping off for a weekly facial may be the stuff dreams are made of, it’s unlikely to be a possibility for the majority of us. Treating your skin, however, can be done (and done well) at home. Not only is a regular at home facial a great way to manage any complexion concerns, it’s also a great chance to unwind while you pamper yourself. Follow our easy guide for a beautiful, relaxing experience in the comfort of your own home.</p><p><strong>1. Set the scene</strong></p><p>While you don’t have to whip out the scented candles, creating a relaxed environment can go a long way in creating a home spa experience. Something as simple as dimming the lights can instantly soften your mood and help you unwind. Candles, your favourite chill out tunes and even burning some essential oils like lavender can also help set the scene and make you feel as if you’re “properly” indulging.</p><p><strong>2. Start with a deep cleanse</strong></p><p>While the majority of us cleanse our faces once or twice daily, it can sometimes be a haphazard scrub and rinse at best. Spending a few extra minutes deep cleaning our skin creates the perfect foundation for the treatment products you’ll apply next. The best way to deep cleanse is by running a face washer under the hot tap to create a warm compress. Apply to your face to open pores. Follow with your favourite cleanser and really work it in, using your fingers or a cleansing brush to create small circles from your forehead all the way down your neck. Remove your cleanser using warm water then apply the warm compress again to ensure your skin is completely clean and pores are primed.</p><p><strong>3. Follow with a scrub</strong></p><p>Using heat and massage will help dislodge dirt from your pores but for a really deep clean, a gentle scrub is ideal. Physical scrubs, or products with a grainy texture aren’t generally recommended for mature skin and can be quite harsh and irritating. Try a chemical product that uses AHAs or BHAs to lift away dead skin cells and reveal a fresh, smooth complexion. Apply to your deep cleansed skin, massage in then remove thoroughly.</p><p><strong>4. Apply a face mask</strong></p><p>Most skin types would benefit from weekly face masks but with our busy lives, that’s not always an option. Choosing and applying a mask specific to your skin type during your facial is a great way to treat and pamper your complexion. There are a huge variety of masks available for all kinds of skin concerns. Consider what your primary skin issue is to help you choose. Generally, you can’t go wrong with a soothing, moisturising formula though a brightening treatment can also be great for mature skin types. While gel/cream formulations are popular, a cloth facial mask can really bump up nutrients for your skin. These masks are simply sheets infused with specific ingredients that you lie over clean skin. Check out your local Priceline or pharmacy to find one to suit. Apply to clean, slightly damp skin for best results and sit back and relax for at least 10 minutes to experience the full effects.</p><p><strong>5. Seal in the results</strong></p><p>Depending on your chosen mask, you’ll either need to rinse of or massage in excess product. Gel/cream masks need to be thoroughly removed before treatment products are applied while cloth masks can be taken off and the leftover serum gently worked into skin. Once you’ve removed your mask, apply your favourite skincare serum or moisturiser. Skin is primed to absorb nutrients after a facial so it’s the perfect time to apply your treatment products. Massage in well and allow it to absorb. It’s always best to do a DIY facial of an evening or at a time when you don’t need to go out or apply makeup/other products. Being able to head to bed or relax at home gives all the goodness you’ve applied to your skin plenty of time to absorb and work its magic.</p><p><a href="/lifestyle/beauty-style/2015/01/revive-tired-eyes/" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Here's our secret to revive tired eyes.</strong></span></a></p>

Beauty & Style

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