How Reading ACOTAR Became Part of My Self-Care and Skincare Ritual

Lately, I’ve fallen completely in love with something unexpected as part of my self-care routine — reading fantasy novels. More specifically, the A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) series by Sarah J. Maas. I’m on the last book now, and it has honestly become such a beautiful part of how I unwind, recharge, and reconnect with myself.

As a holistic esthetician, I talk to clients all the time about how skincare is so much more than what we put on our faces. It’s about slowing down, connecting with our bodies, and creating rituals that feed the skin, body, and soul.

My Current Self-Care Ritual: Skincare, Storytelling, and Stillness

Last night, I created what I can only describe as the perfect night in. I ran a warm Epsom salt bath, lit one of my favorite candles, applied the Sorella Biocellulose Mask, and dove into the next few chapters of ACOTAR.

The combination was everything — nourishing, relaxing, and deeply grounding. The mask hydrated and soothed my skin while the story carried me away into another world. When I got out of the bath, my skin was glowing, my muscles were relaxed, and my mind felt clear and inspired.

It reminded me that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be as simple as creating a beautiful moment for yourself: a good book, a candle, and a skincare treatment that feels like love.

Why Self Care Is So Important for Your Skin

Our skin is a reflection of our lifestyle, stress levels, and inner wellbeing. When we take time to rest and nurture ourselves, our skin responds with balance and radiance.

Here’s how combining skincare with self-care can truly transform your glow:

• 🕯️ Reduces stress hormones that lead to inflammation and breakouts
• 💧 Boosts skin hydration and barrier repair through rest and mindfulness
• 🌿 Creates consistency in your skincare habits because the ritual feels good
  
• 🌙 Improves sleep quality, which directly supports skin cell renewal
  

If you’re feeling tired, stressed, or disconnected from your skincare routine, try slowing it down. Put on your favorite mask, light a candle, and let yourself be fully present — whether that’s with a book like ACOTAR or a few minutes of deep breathing.

My Self-Care Favorites

Here are a few of my go-to products and rituals I recommend to clients who want to build their own glow-from-within evenings:

• Sorella Apothecary Biocellulose Mask – deeply hydrating and soothing
• Epsom salt bath with lavender essential oil – relaxes muscles and detoxifies
• Herbal tea or adaptogenic cocoa – supports your nervous system
• A good fantasy book (like ACOTAR!) – for soul-level escapism
  

If you’re interested in creating your own custom self-care skincare ritual, I’d love to help. Whether that’s a personalized facial or a curated at-home product plan, we can find what makes you glow inside and out.

👉 Book your next holistic facial at glowwithida.com or reach out for product recommendations.

Your Turn: What’s Your Self-Care Story?

Now I want to know — have you read ACOTAR? Or is there a book or ritual that helps you unwind and reconnect with yourself?

Send me a message, I’d love to hear what fills your cup and keeps your glow strong.

With love & luminous skin,
Ida ✨
Holistic Esthetician | Skin, Body & Soul Wellness