The New Me!

OK. Having decided to embrace my autumn years (which by the way could go on for quite some time... I do not intend to hit winter until at least aged 80!) I think it is time to re-invent myself. All the clothes that I have, or at least a lot of them, are really for another person... It's going to take a little time to do, but i'm thinking colourful, fun flounces, long skirts, drapey shawls, large soft woollens, home knitted socks and clumpy boots, scarfs and turbans... big earings, bright coloured beads and rings with large stones!! This might take some time but as I acquire each new item I will show you.

But right now.... My hair. I am waiting for the henna bit to get a little longer and then I shall have it cut off - the actual style will depend upon the hairdresser - I never stick to the same one, I usually go on a whim, just phoning around until I find somewhere that can take me right away! But with the prospect of very grey or white hair looming - the texture of which is very different, much coarser and wirey, it is really important that I try to look after my hair now, in order to keep it looking at it's best. For me that starts general health and eating well, but there are other things too. I have always had a tendency towards an itchy flakey scalp. This was kept under control by a monthly application of henna - but already I have started to feel the itch return. It's time for a Rosemary Hair Wash.

Gather some fresh Rosemary - great big handfuls of the stuff! I got mine from a bush that grows on a grass verge beside a quiet-ish road in the village... so, it was free.


Pop it into a pan with some water and bring to the boil. When it is boiling, immediately turn it off and leave it overnight to cool down.


Once it is cool strain the liquid into a jug and add a tablespoon of apple vinegar (cider vinegar - same thing) and fill up the jug with warm water to dilute the mixture. The vinegar is important and makes all the difference. You could also add some essential oil if you wish but it isn't absolutely necessary.


Brush your hair very well - for about five minutes with a natural bristle brush. (If you want to know how to brush your hair properly then try this page.) Place a bucket in the bath and leaning over the bucket, pass the mixture through your hair several times, rubbing the scalp thoroughly.


When you think you have done it enough. Dry the hair with a towel. Don't worry about the smell of vinegar, it soon goes away. Your hair will be lovely fresh and clean - if you really must shampoo your hair then use this wash after your last rinse - it helps to remove any build up of detergent and returns your scalp to it's proper ph - which is slightly acidic. I only use shampoo once a week or sometimes once a fortnight and then I only use a very small amount because it really is responsible for those nasty flakes that end up on my shoulder.

There are lots more hints and tips on my skincare website if you are interested in this sort of thing. I am feeling better about my hair already - even though at the moment it's sort of two tone, red and white!!