Canadian Living

Every year, when April’s inevitable showers start coming down, we’re of two minds. On one side is the thought, “C’mon, it’s definitely better than snow,” and on the other, “Will the sun ever shine again?” Even if you’re in the former, glass-half-full, camp, there’s no doubt that those endless raindrops that keep falling on your head can put a downer on your so-called spring day. All those plans to finally get outside and Get Things Done are thrown by the wayside. But here’s an idea: What if you put that obligatory indoorsy time to good use? Don’t panic—we’re not talking about overhauling the kitchen or a top-to-toe cleaning that will leave you exhausted. We have more of a self-care, put-your-mind-to-all-the-little-things-you’ve-neglected scenario in mind. Kind of spring puttering, if you will.…

1 RAINY DAYS BE PREPARED FOR APRIL SHOWERS WITH A STYLISH YET FUNCTIONAL RAINCOAT THAT KEEPS YOU NICE AND DRY. 2 SKIN SOOTHER In Japanese culture, the idea of transformation over time is highly valued. Shiseido used this philosophy as the basis of its newly reformulated Future Solution LX skin-care line, created to support radiance and beauty through the years. The luxe range harnesses the power of healing Japanese Enmei herb extract. We’re especially enamoured of the purifying cleanser that doubles as a fun bubble mask for extra pampering. 3 Maple moment Is there anything more Canadian than maple syrup? We’re the world’s biggest producer of this sweet stuff, and as such, it’s part of the fabric of Canadian culture. According to Statistics Canada, the True North had a record harvest—a whopping 19.9…

MAPLE CARAMEL ROLLS MAKES 12 ROLLS HANDS-ON TIME 40 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 3 ¾ HOURS Brioche Rolls 1 cup 2% milk½ cup packed brown sugar, divided8 g quick-rising (instant) dry yeast4 cups all-purpose flour (approx)1 tsp salt6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, then slightly warmed3 eggs1 tsp vanilla Filling ⅓ cup packed brown sugar⅓ cup maple sugarpinch cinnamonpinch nutmegpinch cardamom½ cup unsalted butter, softened Maple Caramel Sauce ½ cup unsalted butter1 cup maple syrup (approx)1 cup 35% whipping cream¼ tsp salt2 tsp vanillamaple flakes (optional) Brioche Rolls In large microwaveable bowl, microwave milk on medium heat until lukewarm. Add large pinch of the brown sugar, and the yeast. Stir and let stand until foamy, 5 to 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in separate bowl, combine flour, remaining brown sugar and the salt; set…

SCENTS OF ADVENTURE LESS CONCENTRATED THAN PERFUMES, BODY MISTS DELIVER A SUBTLER SCENT DUE TO HIGHER WATER AND ALCOHOL CONTENT. PERFECT FOR WHEN YOU WANT TO ENVELOP YOURSELF IN A LIGHT, AIRY FRAGRANCE, THESE MISTS MAY NOT LAST AS LONG ON THE SKIN AS A TRADITIONAL EAU DE PARFUM, BUT THEY ALSO TEND TO BE MORE BUDGET-FRIENDLY. HERE ARE THE MISTS WE CAN’T STOP SPRITZING. SCRUB-A-DUB-DUB BEAUTIFULLY SCENTED OILS, SALTS AND BATH BOMBS ELEVATE YOUR BATHTIME RITUAL TO A SPA-LIKE SOAK. POP ONE OF THESE SENSORIAL BATH PRODUCTS INTO YOUR TUB, THEN SINK IN, LIE BACK AND RELAX.…

HOW THEY WORK From sheet masks that treat the whole face to targeted varieties formulated for the eye contour, expression lines or lips, the magic of these skin-care solutions lies in the occlusive barrier they form. The mask is drenched in active ingredients, often the same ones found in serums, toners and moisturizers, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C or alpha hydroxy acid. The film acts as a bodyguard, planting itself between the air and the product to keep ingredients from evaporating. By sitting back and relaxing for a while (often between 10 and 30 minutes, these active ingredients have uninterrupted contact with the targeted area, allowing for better absorption and locked-in goodness for happy skin that enjoys a boost of hydration and plumpness. WHAT ARE THEY MADE OF? When…

Endermologie Endermologie was created in the 1980s by French engineer Louis-Paul Guitay as a treatment for softening scars through massage and suction. The technology is still used today to help with muscle stiffness and soreness, swelling, pain relief and scar tissue formation from surgery and accidents. Over time, Endermologie began to be used for more cosmetic purposes, such as reducing cellulite and firming skin. RESULTS In addition to its many uses in the health-care world, this noninvasive treatment is also used as a cosmetic procedure that helps stimulate the production of collagen, elastin and natural hyaluronic acid for skin that’s firmer and plumper. On the body, Endermologie can target heavy or swollen legs and feet that result from poor lymphatic or blood circulation. The treatment can also treat the loss…