When I wasn't living my life for myself, my weekday mornings were characterized by pressing the snooze button several times, jumping out of bed 15 minutes before my bus, throwing some clothes on, and putting my hair up in a greasy bun before flying out the door. It was rare that I made the time to put a brush through my hair, let alone put on makeup.

Makeup used to feel like an overwhelming task that I either didn't have time for or sucked at doing, so I wouldn't bother. But what I realized is the way you depict yourself on the outside often reflects how you feel about yourself and your life on the inside. When you take the time to feel beautiful in the morning, it gives you the energy and attention to take care of your body and make it a beautiful day.

So, channeling my dabbling inner goddess, I was inspired to make my own makeup. I started with blush made with beet and hibiscus flowers and now I'm onto mascara. Why shouldn't adorning myself be a playful, crafty adventure?

Make Your Own Mascara

• 2 tsp. coconut oil
• 4 tsp aloe vera gel
• 1/2 tsp beeswax pastilles (like this)
• 1/4 tsp activated charcoal powder (like this)
• plastic bag (reuse one from the grocery store!)
• clean mascara container and wand (like this one)

Combine coconut oil, aloe vera gel, and beeswax in a saucepan over low heat and stir until just melted (about 3-4 mins). Remove from heat and whisk in charcoal powder. Let cool for a few more minutes.

Very carefully, pour the mixture into a plastic bag and mush it into one corner of the bag. Cut a very small hole in the opposite corner of the bag and place the tip into empty mascara tube. Slowly squeeze the mixture into the tube.

Twist in your mascara wand and seal tightly. Apply as needed (mixing it around the wand first). Keeps for up to 2 months.

NOTE: Because the recipe includes coconut oil, which has a melting point of 75F, add more beeswax if you live in a warmer climate.