Heart Health: 20 Barley Recipes That Don’t Blow

Michelle Swift
Feb 03, 2014

Sure, sure, you know February is the month that points Cupid’s arrow toward love, but it celebrates hearts in another way and we bet you didn’t even know it: It’s called Heart Health Month. Coincidence? Probably not. And while cupid focuses on the lovely dovey stuff, we’re turning your attention to the other form of heart health in a single grain of barley. How magical is the little kernel? Well, it’s proven to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. And it’s effects on love? It does absolutely nothing for it. Psych! But to be sure, try some barley recipes this February and keep us posted on how it affects your libido. And we do mean in forms other than beer.

1. Pearl Barley, Almond Milk Porridge, + Spiced Poached Pears: Is it breakfast or dessert? We’ll leave it up to you to decide. Barley plumped with almond milk and scented with coconut, dried cherries, and almonds not to mention the pièce de rèsistance — decadently spiced, poached pears. (via Kid Spot)

2. California Barley Bowl: If you’re looking for a hearty, non-sugary breakfast solution, here you have it. Don’t forget to scent the yogurt with lemon as it pairs well with the buttery avocado. (via Naturally Ella)

3. Beef and Barley Spring Rolls: These are for the non-conformists. Rice noodles are swapped out for the hearty grain. This is fusion finger food at its finest, folks. (via Raley’s)

4. Maple Syrup Glazed Barley and Squash Cupcakes: Bite-sized and to die for, these glazed barley-and-squash cakes kind of take the cake. You will need a muffin tin, and get this, black tea. It’s part of the glaze. But like for realz. (via Pots and Pans)

5. Barley Salad with Chicken and Corn: Simple, hearty, and healthy, this salad is a keeper for showers, parties, and potlucks. We think it’d taste great in the peak of summer with fresh sweet corn. (via Martha Stewart)

6. Tomato + Mozzarella Barley Salad: It’s like a re-constructed caprese salad perfect for brown-bagged lunches. (via The Sweetest Occasion)

7. Healthy Chicken Chili with Barley: Ever-popular white chicken chili meets barley, and what you get is a hearty bowl of chili just begging for toppings. (via Big Girls Small Kitchen)

8. Leek Barley Soup: This soup signifies transition. The hearty, barley meets fresh, young leeks, blending together in a velvety, light soup. (via Gobo Root)

9. Kale, Pearled Barley, + Faux Roe Stack with Sweet Soy Glaze: If you’re looking for wow factor, here you have it. A lovely construction that pleases the eye and the belly. PS. That is not caviar. It’s beet-stained amaranth. Magic. (via Olives for Dinner)

10. Mushroom-Barley Burgers with Sage: Everybody loves a burger now and then. Mushrooms lend texture and flavor in this veggie-style burger. Slice up some fresh cucumber, lettuce, and red onion for toppings. (via Shape)

11. Rum Citrus Chicken Kabobs with Stir Fried Barley: Who doesn’t enjoy food on a stick? It basically spells party, which may be what you’ll be doing with the leftover rum. Enjoy these festive kabobs on a bed of barley stir fry. (via Lemons & Anchovies)

12. Vegetarian Barley Stuffed Squash: Brussels sprouts, carrots, broccolini, cremini mushrooms, and spinach –– throw some barley into the mix, bake inside the shell of an acorn squash, and you’ve got dinner. (via Little Leopard Book)

13. Barley with Clam Sauce: A healthy spin on the Italian classic, spaghetti alle vongole –– this barley-based dish may even have your nonna saying buon appetito! (via Gazette Net)

14. Butternut Squash Barley Risotto: No one can say no to a creamy, comforting risotto. Surprise guests by switching out the classic arborio for barley. (via Williams Sonoma)

15. Grilled Steak with Barley Salad: Try this one out on your steak-and-potatoes lover and you may take them by pleasant surprise. Steak, grilled to perfection, accented with barley, mushrooms, spinach, carrot, and flavored with a lemon, dijon vinaigrette. (via Food Network)

16. Roast Pork Belly with Vegetable and Barley Stew: Oh my gosh, tender, braised pork belly, nestled on a bed of vegetable-laden barley. This is a show-stopping mouth melter! (via Mind Food)

17. Pan-Seared Quail and Red Wine Risotto: Get a load of those legs. Like the first act, this quail dish grabs attention. Lush and decadent, we suggest serving this dish for Valentine’s day. (via 37 Cooks)

18. Chocolate Barley Snack Cake: Have your barley and eat it in cake form too! Moist, chocolatey, rich, and made with barley. (Dinner With Julie)

19. Creamed Pearls: Think tapioca or rice pudding but insert barley on the taste-buds instead. The nutty taste and creamy texture of barley are scented with vanilla and cardamom, then doused with a vibrant, green crunch of chopped pistachios. We say delish. (via Lady and Pups)

20. No-Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles: Nothing says I love you like chocolate! These decadent truffles use barley flour in their batter, and you did read that correctly: No bake! (via Joseph’s Grainery)

Share your heart-healthy barley recipes with us in the comments below!

A New Glen Powell Erotic Thriller Is Coming & PLEASE Take All My Money

Glen Powell is the gift that keeps on giving, TBH. From his viral Anyone But Youpress tour to his iconic Twisterscowboy-in-the-rain scene, it's Glen Powell's world and we're all just living in it. Thankfully, the Glen-iverse is expanding with a new movie, and it's set to be spicier than ever. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Homewrecker, the upcoming erotic thriller, just officially landed at a production company, finally making Glen's new movie a reality. Wanna know more? Let's get into it!

Here's everything to know about Glen Powell's upcoming erotic thriller, Homewrecker!

Not too much is known about Homewrecker — other than that it's an erotic thriller. The film is based off of an unpublished story by Neil M. Paik (Reawakening, Rainbowfish) that's only three chapters long.
The Hollywood Reporterbroke the news that Legendary won the bidding war for Homewrecker this week. According to the outlet, there was "a seven-figure outright purchase" for the film rights and "a seven-figure arrangement" to have Paik write the screenplay.
With that deal in place, Glen Powell is set to star and produce this project, with Paik writing the script. So far, everything else is very under wraps, but here's what I do know:
  • Glen Powell is one of the most charming men in Hollywood, so I know he's gonna bring that charm to new heights in this film — even if they're slightly sinister heights!
  • Glen Powell in the rain in Twisters (yes, it's the second time I'm brining this up — it's fine) was so hot, and he wasn't even doing anything actually hot...just imagine the erotic thriller possibilities here!
  • IMAGINE YET ANOTHER GLEN POWELL PRESS TOUR?
Basically, all this goes to say, the girlies stay winning when it comes to Glen Powell. 🙌 Can't wait for more updates on this very exciting project!

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See All The Pics From Taylor Swift's "Surprise" Eras Tour Party From Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift's birthday (which any Swiftie will tell you is December 13, 1989) is always a reason to celebrate. But this year, considering her birthday came five days after wrapping the Eras Tour on December 8, Taylor's BF Travis Kelce took things to the next level by giving the popstar an Eras Tour-themed party! And according to Jo-Jo Edwards-Hilaire, it was a total surprise. Not only did the guest list include some of your favorite celebs, but they all dressed up asTaylor, wearing outfits inspired by each Era in the concert. There's only one thing to say: Long live all the memories we made!

Check out all the pictures from Taylor Swift's surprise 35th birthday party, thrown by Travis Kelce.

Patrick & Brittany Mahomes celebrated Taylor Swift (and the Eras Tour) with themed outfits.

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Patrick and Brittany Mahomes showed up to Taylor's birthday wearing two of the best outfits of the night (which you can see on Brittany's Instagram): Britt was dressed as Fearless-era Taylor with a silver dress, jacket, and long curls, while Patrick was dressed in a suit just like Travis wore when he showed up onstage during "I Can Do It With A Broken Heart" in June 2024!

"My people🫶🏼," Brittany captioned the post, adding the heart hands Taylor has become known for. In addition to Britt's on-theme outfit, Taylor wore a black dress with red lipstick, Lyndsay Bell donned a Lover-approved pink sparkly outfit, and Ashley Avignone added some Reputation into the mix by wearing a plush snake around her neck, Voldemort style.

Ross Travis also posted photos from the event (including his incredible pink suit embroidered with ballerinas, heart sunglasses, and feather boa), showing off an epic dance floor. I want to belt "You Belong With Me" with Taylor and Travis!

But an epic party wasn't the only way Taylor Swift spent her 35th birthday.

And Taylor Swift's surprise birthday party wasn't the only event on her calendar last week. On December 12, the singer spent time with patients at the Children's Mercy Kansas City Hospital, petting dogs, making TikToks, and signing Eras Tour books. It was such a sweet and memorable way to kick off her birthday!

One of my favorite things about this visit is that not only is Taylor writing each kid a personalized message on their Eras Tour book, but she gets down to their eye level and stops writing to look at them when they're talking. Just like her lyrics make us feel seen when we hear them, Taylor goes out of her way to make every single kid feel known and important, and it just makes us love her even more.

When one child said, "I like Travis now," Taylor immediately replies with, "Yes, me too. That's an absolute yes on that one." We'd have to agree, Taylor ;).

While you relisten to The Tortured Poets Department, check out why This Taylor Swift Karma Release Date Theory Is Too Good Not To Believe. And sign up for our weekend newsletter for even more pop culture news!

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41 Innovative Products That Combat Seasonal Depression

Struggling with the winter blues? From the short days to the dark nights and frosty temperatures, it's not surprising that the season can have an impact on our mood. But these 41 innovative products are designed to offer a much-needed boost. From light therapy lamps and energising supplements to cozy weighted blankets and calming gadgets, these items provide practical solutions for enhancing your mental well-being and creating a brighter, more uplifting atmosphere at home.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

These Light Therapy Glasses Can Offer Relief

Amazon

These glasses are lightweight and comfortable for long wear, plus they don't hinder your sight. The blue-enriched white is available in three intensity settings, and can not only help with winter blues but also jet lag.

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These Gummy Worms Are Packed With Vitamin D

Amazon

A lack of sunlight can affect our vitamin D intake, but these gummy worms are designed to replenish the levels and naturally lift our spirits. They also contain saffron, which has been found to have natural mood-boosting benefits, and reviews say they taste delicious.

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Wake Peacefully With the Sunrise Alarm Clock

Amazon

The Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock is designed to mimic a sunrise and naturally rouse you from a deep sleep. Customers say it helps them to feel alert in the mornings rather than groggy. Plus, it has a wind-down mode and soothing sounds for bedtime.

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These Gummies Can Reduce Your Stress

Amazon

These gummies are made with lion's mane mushrooms, which researchers believe can reduce stress, provide a burst of energy and even help to regulate mood. It's safe for kids to use too, and reviews say you can see results within days.

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This Therapy Lamp Is Great for on the Go

Amazon

This lamp has four timer settings and three intensity levels, allowing you to personalize the experience to suit your needs. The standing bracket and a 90-degree rotation allow you to adjust the angle with ease, and the sleek design means it can fit into your purse.

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Practice Mindfulness With a Breathing Buddha

Amazon

One way to boost your mood is to pause and meditate. If you're a newbie, this breathing buddha works like a visual tool to count your breathing and help you block out distractions.

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This Weighted Blanket Feels Like Pure Luxury

Amazon

Weighted blankets can help to put your nervous system into “rest” mode and promote better sleep. This velvet design feels so soft and is crafted from premium velvet. It's perfect for keeping warm on cold nights but is also breathable for the summer.

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This Blanket Can Keep You Toasty

Amazon

Not only is this blanket weighted, but it has a heat function to keep you warm on those frosty winter nights. There are ten adjustable heat settings to help you find your optimal temperature, and customers say it achieves their best sleep ever.

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This Sleep Mask Is Made for Deep Sleep

Amazon

Struggling to adjust to the short days? This sleep mask has layered padding that gently cushions your face, plus it blocks out any light. The silky fabric makes it easy to sleep in, and it also keeps your skin and hair protected.

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This Mask Is Like a Weighted Blanket for Your Face

Amazon

This weighted face mask applies gentle pressure and can help to calm an over active mind. It's ideal for when you're struggling to switch off and can be used for both side and back sleepers.

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This Wearable Blanket Is Made With Coziness in Mind

Amazon

The winter has its challenges but the long nights can also provide the perfect excuse to unwind and relax. This blanket with sleeves offers hands-free comfort, plus there are pockets for your phone or snacks. It comes in a choice of colors and patterns, so you can pick one to suit your style.

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Drift Off to Soothing Sounds With This White Noise Machine

Amazon

White noise can be a powerful tool for an anxious mind and help to improve focus and switch off. This sound machine has 31 soothing sounds, including bird song, gentle rain and the crackle of a camp fire. The sleek design also makes it a stylish choice for your nightstand.

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This Indoor Water Feature Feels so Calming

Amazon

The sound of water can be so soothing, and this indoor piece is perfect if you're lacking in outdoor space. The three tiers create a gentle flow, and customers say it's great value for money.

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This Spray Is for Your Pillow

Amazon

This spray has been proven to help you fall asleep faster, using the calming power of lavender, chamomile and vetivert. It's also cruelty-free and contains no sulphates, petrolatum, phthalates or synthetic colours. Simply spray onto your bed linen and enjoy the indulgent scent.

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This Sleep Pillow Has Slots for Your Arms

Amazon

This orthopedic pillow is designed to soothe aching necks and muscles, and promote better sleep and energy levels. It creates the perfect lift, and there are arm holes for unbeatable comfort. Plus, the gel-infused memory foam keeps you cool.

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This Therapy Lamp Is Great for the Desk

Amazon

Struggling with your energy levels when you work from home? This lamp is the perfect size for a home desk, and it's dimmable with three color settings. One customer claimed the results of this lamp were 'life-changing' after battling seasonal depression.

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This Bulb Feels Like the Sun

Amazon

This two-pack of Norb Everyday Sun Light Bulbs are designed to create the feeling of natural light in your home without harmful UV rays. The LED design is also energy efficient, plus customers say they're a breeze to install.

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Ease Stress With This Roll On

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The soothing essential oils of this roll on can provide an instant feeling of calm, and the compact size makes it perfect when you're on the go. Use as part of your bedtime ritual or whenever you're struggling with stress.

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Melatonin Gummies Can Help Sleep Issues

Amazon

If the short days have disrupted your sleep pattern, melatonin supplements can help to achieve better slumber. These gummies are chewable, and free from synthetic flavors or colors.

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These Capsules Work to Release Melatonin Throughout the Night

Amazon

The Ritual Sleep Melatonin capsules use BioSeries technology to release melatonin steadily throughout the night and ensure a better quality of sleep. They've been clinically shown to achieve deeper sleep, with one review hailing them a total 'game changer'.

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The Sleep Pod Is a Cocoon of Comfort

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This innovative sleep blanket feels like a hug. It keeps you warm and cozy, while replicating the pressure of deep touch. Plus, there is the option to let your feet breathe if you need it.

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This Best Selling Supplement Helps Find Your Calm

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These Anxie-T supplements are made from all-natural ingredients, including the Ashwagandha plant which is commonly used to combat stress. You can take three in the morning to induce a natural feeling of calm and one at night for better sleep.

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This Herb Tea Has no Caffeine

Amazon

Enjoy the soothing and comforting benefits of tea without the caffeine. The Republic of Tea is great tasting and the perfect addition to your night time routine. Reviews say you will feel instantly sleepy.

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This Calming Cream Is Infused With Lavender Oil

Amazon

This cream works to support natural sleep and offer some calming relief from anxiety or nerves. It's free from harsh chemicals and suitable for sensitive skin types too.

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This Lavender Latte Is Great for a Subtle Boost

Amazon

If you're trying to cut down on coffee, this latte powder is made with lavender, blue spirulina and coconut sugar. It's got a deliciously smooth taste, plus the bold pop of color can add some joy to your morning beverage.

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This Sleep Instrument Uses Vibration to Relieve Pressure

Amazon

Using low-frequency electrical pulses to calm your body, this sleep instrument can achieve a noticeable reduction in anxiety. The ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip, and it's suitable for all ages.

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These Sheet Masks Nourish and Soothe

Amazon

Sometimes the best way to combat the winter blues is with some self-care. And these soothing sheet masks are packed with natural goodness to leave your skin glowing. The texture isn't sticky, and the formula uses three types of hyaluronic acid to tackle dry winter complexions.

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Plant Seeds With This Bonsai Tree Kit

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Plants are proven to have calming powers, and this bonsai tree kit is a great way to feel at one with nature. It contains four variations of seeds, and the joy of seeing fresh life grow can be an uplifting experience.

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This Breathing Bear Is Perfect for Kids

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If you want to switch off with your kids, this breathing bear can provide the most adorable meditation pal. It works to guide you through the famous 4-7-8 breathing technique, and can also work as a white noise machine and night light.

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Make Your Home Feel Like a Spa With This Essential Oil Diffuser

Amazon

This diffuser not only releases a calming mist, but it can also put on a light show for that feeling of a luxury spa experience in the comfort of your own home. You can enjoy the soothing mist for up to six hours, and the ultra quiet fan makes it discreet for home working.

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Drown Out Distraction With These Noise Cancelling Headphones

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These Bose QuietComfort Headphones offer two innovative modes of audio. The quiet mode drowns out background noise for an immersive experience, while the aware mode allows you to be mindful of your surroundings. The ear cups provide a cushion of comfort, and just 15 minutes of charge provides over two hours of playtime.

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This Candle Is Indulgent Without Being Overpowering

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Made from aromatherapy natural oils, this candle from Slow North is also free of any petroleum byproducts, as well as synthetic chemical fragrances. Breathe in the calming botanical ingredients, and enjoy 30 hours of burn time.

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This Zen Garden Restores Some Inner Peace

Amazon

This zen sand garden can create hundreds of patterns, and you can adjust the colors and speeds. Sync to your phone to control with the app and create custom playlists to suit your mood.

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This Yoga Mat Is Great for Newbies

Amazon

If you want to enjoy the calming benefits of yoga but don't know where to start, this yoga mat is designed with beginners in mind. It has the poses printed on, so you always have a visual reference for ease. Plus, the thick material provides support and comfort.

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Try Epsom Salts For a Stress Free Soak

Amazon

When in water, Epsom salts break down into magnesium and sulphate and help to soothe muscles and relieve pain. This packet from Amazon is such a steal for the price and has thousands of glowing reviews.

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These Epsom Salts Are All Natural and Organic

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Make your bath feel a little more boujee with these Epsom salts from LOVERY. They're enriched with essential oils and herbs for a nourishing boost to the skin, and the packaging has such an opulent appeal.

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This Migraine Cap Targets Pain

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One of the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder is headaches, but this cap provides instant relief. The gel formula creates a cooling sensation that helps to soothe the pain, plus you can wear over your eyes to reduce puffiness.

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Let Cats be the Cure With This Hoodie

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Being around cats can have a calming impact on our mental health, and this hoodie lets you keep your feline friend close. The fleece pouch envelopes them in comfort, while the pom poms provide some stimulation.

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Get Creative With This Coloring Book

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Coloring can bring us such nostalgic joy, and is also a soothing stress reliever. This book is designed for all ages, and contains 52 large pages just waiting to be filled in.

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Start Your Morning With Golden Milk

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Golden milk, or haldi doodh, has been a part of Indian culture for centuries and is a warming beverage used to ward off ailments like the common cold. This superfood blend from Sunfood contains a cocktail of goodness, including anti inflammatory turmeric and energy boosting maca.

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Relieve Facial Tension With Ice Rollers

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Facial tension can lead to painful migraines, but these ice rollers are the perfect remedy. They can also tackle morning puffiness, contour the face and help you feel more alert for the day. A necessity on those cold, dark mornings.

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