Here in Vancouver, businesses are just starting to reopen, and as excited as I am at the prospect of a facial and maybe a haircut, things are still going to be dodgy for everyone until a COVID-19 vaccine is found or herd immunity is achieved. That's why I'm continuing to stay at home as much as possible, but at least I have some excellent books to distract me while I self-quarantine. What are you reading right now?
I've tried my share of cleansing waters, jellies, balms and oils, but there is something atavistically satisfying about a foaming face wash. Maybe it's the way the texture taps into nostalgic comfort and familiarity? Something about a sudsy face cleanser reminds me of younger and more carefree days, tickling the same pleasure centres in my lizard brain as teen rom-coms and Disney movies and Oreos. It just feels good and I can't explain why. Evidently the skincare geniuses at Avene felt the same way, because instead of making a jelly-like cleanser for sensitive skin, they gave us Avene Cleansing Foam ($23 at London Drugs).
What does self-care look like while in quarantine? For me, it has been sweaty Bar Method classes via Zoom, followed by a refreshing shower that feels oh so good and a few swipes of Megababe Rosy Pits Daily Deodorant ($14). In my quest to try different natural deodorants, I picked up this new-to-me product during my last trip to Seattle, before COVID-19. Megababe Rosy Pits has since become one of my favourite body care essentials.
This month, I visited a Silicon Valley robotics lab and a late-night talk show host's Long Island mansion, joined a book club in Nashville, got behind-the-scenes looks at a yoga studio's grand opening and what it's like to work on Wall Street—all without leaving the comfort of my couch or bed. Books let our minds transcend the confines of quarantine when our bodies can't. If you're looking to do the same, here are 6 reads I enjoyed recently.
