Merkaela is a quarterly subscription box that sends you a seasonally inspired collection of products that offer a holistic approach to a clear mind, body and spirit.
Each box will include 7 to 10 items, most of which are handmade in-house at their home base in New York City. Their botanical offerings feature non-toxic, nutrient-rich essential oils, butters, natural herbs and other ingredients meant to nourish the body, mind and spirit. Items can include body scrubs, mineral bath salts, natural bar soaps, herbal teas, face masks, crystals, and more. All products are 100% cruelty free and packaged in eco-friendly materials.
Disclosure: I received this box for review purposes. I was not compensated in any way. All opinions are my own. Post may contain affiliate and/or referral links.
Subscriptions are $48/quarter, or less with multi-month commitments. Shipping is free within the US. — For a limited time you can save 10% on your first box with coupon code “SOLSTICE“!
Let’s see what’s in the Winter 2016 Merkaela box!
“Fra-gee-lay!” 😉
A peek inside!
A welcome note highlighted the theme of this quarter’s box — “SOLSTICE” — and explained how all of the items were “formulated to support our relationship with others as well as ourselves”.
An info card listed all of the products inside, as well as descriptions and tips for using them. The reverse side (which I forgot to photograph) included a more detailed explanation of the theme and the importance of self-love.
A small affirmation card further stressed the importance of self acceptance.
Venus Mineral Bath ($14) – This artisan salt blend mineral bath is formulated to promote feelings of wellness and personal happiness. It’s ideal for supplying the body with much needed magnesium and other nutrients, alleviating pain and soothing aching muscles. Ingredients include dendritic salt, epsom salt, Mediterranean sea salt, black Hawaiian sea salt, and pure essential oils.
Venus Body Exfoliator ($9.50) – An all natural body exfoliator/scrub made with organic shea butter, organic olive oil, organic coconut oil, raw organic sugar cane, pure essential oils, and other skin-soothing ingredients. The info card suggests rubbing it onto the skin in a circular motion while mentally listing the reasons for why you appreciate yourself and your body.
Heart Chakra Candle ($4.50) – A little meditation candle to help balance your heart chakra, this features essential oils of rose and geranium. Merkaela suggests listing to their winter playlist (url printed on info card) while burning the candle and sitting in your sacred space.
Evergreen Soap ($8.50) – I just started using this the other day and I love it! This handmade soap is made with a highly nourishing blend of luxurious butters and essential oils. It has a great wintery pine/Frankincense scent and lathers up quite nicely. 🙂
Venus Body Butter ($21) – An incredibly thick & moisturizing body butter enriched with organic shea butter, organic coconut oil, organic olive oil, Vitamin E, and essential oils. The info card suggests applying it when you first wake up as you take a moment to appreciate and give thanks to your body.
Raven Tea Potion ($7.70) – A caffeine-free herbal tea blend consisting of organic Egyptian chamomile, lemon myrtle, honeybush, lemongrass, ginkgo, St. John’s Wort, nettle, anise, birch leaves, and stevia. This blend helps promote increased relaxation and mental clarity.
Awaken Face Mask ($7.70) – A super hydrating face mask made with just two ingredients — bentonite clay and spirulina. Simply mix with water, apply to the face, leave on for 10-15 minutes, and rinse.
Clear Quartz Pendulum ($8.50) – According to the product info in the Merkaela shop, healers have used pendulums throughout history to locate and heal infectious diseases, find answers to their questions and identify areas with specified energies. Today, many people incorporate quartz pendulums in their spiritual practice and search for personal fulfillment. You can use it to answer “yes” and “no” questions or simply enhance the spiritual potential of other stones you may have.
Cedar Smudge Stick ($4.40) – I’ve seen smudge sticks used quite a bit on tv and in movies (usually to scare away evil spirits), but I’ve never actually had a chance to use one myself. Cedar is widely regarded as a protective herb that can be utilized for warding off bad and evil thoughts, negativity, and physical sickness. To use: With a clear mind and good intentions, ignite the stick and hold at about a 45 degree angle pointing the tip down toward the flame. Allow it to burn for about 30 secs to 1 minute and then blow out. With your lit Cedar Smudge Stick walk around your workspace, home, car, bathroom or anywhere you would like to clear the energy.
The Merkaela “Solstice” box was absolutely full of beautifully handcrafted products to help bring about a sense of reflection and self-love. I was impressed with the sheer amount of items, along with the high quality, natural ingredients used in each product. The total retail value of everything in the Winter 2016 box was just over $85! — Remember, for a limited time you can save 10% on your first box with coupon code “SOLSTICE“!
Thank you very much for the honest review. We are really glad that you love the products and experience. Our goal is to help you get centered and on your way to wellness.
P.S. – Don’t forget to listen to the solstice playlist as part as your morning ritual.
http://blog.merkaela.com/solstice-playlist-selflove/