There are times when we just need to relax. Ideally a trip to the spa would be the perfect remedy for relieving everyday stresses and strains both physically and mentally. However this isn't always possible be it due to our busy lives or even the cost. So how about recreating your favourite spa experience at home? There are lots of things you can do in your own space and, with a little imagination, you will almost feel that you've spent the day at a luxury health farm! So get ready for a little self pampering and emerge with fresh dewy skin and a refreshed mind and spirit!
Create the Perfect Home Spa Environment
First of all you have to create the ideal atmosphere for your home spa as this is an essential ingredient for your feeling of well-being.
- Make sure your space is clean and free of clutter. Choose a space with light colours rather than dark as these are more conducive to a relaxed mind. You could choose your living room or even your bathroom - wherever you feel most comfortable and relaxed.
2. Dim the lights and turn off your phone. As is the case at a spa, you don't want anything to distract you. So switch off your mobile and the landline and leave your cares and worries behind for the time being.
3. Light some scented candles. The soft lighting will help enormously in creating the ideal atmosphere for your home spa. The soothing effects of candles rather than artificial light will really add to the enjoyment of this experience.
4. Aromas are an essential element for aiding relaxation and serenity and it is probably the first thing you would notice on entering a spa. Fill a vase with freshly cut aromatic flowers or sprinkle some essential oils such as jasmine or lavender for the ultimate in tranquility inducing fragrances. However don't overdo it as it will have the opposite effect.
5. Some background music is another essential element in recreating the spa experience. Opt for music or even sounds that help you detach from your everyday worries and concerns. There is a great deal of choice out there on the web so whether it's harp music or whale song, make sure it lulls you into a state of tranquility.
6. A mug of warm herbal tea will really help you unwind. Get out your favourite crockery and pour in an infusion of herbs such as mint and chamomile to really help you relax
Full Facial
Now that you are fully relaxed, it's time for a facial. Begin by steaming your face for a few minutes over a bowl to draw out any impurities. Then gently exfoliate your skin using a gentle face brush and a facial wash to remove dead cells. In gentle circular movements exfoliate your face, neck and chest. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Next apply a facial mask according to your needs. If you don't have a cosmetic product at hand, try looking to your pantry. Egg whites, yoghurt, honey and oatmeal are all ideal for fixing your own DIY face mask. Apply to your whole face avoiding the eye area and lips. Lie back, relax and succumb to your environment. After the required waiting time, remove with lukewarm water, tone and apply a moisturizer.
And voila, your face will be glowing and you will look refreshed and rejuvenated!
Body Beautiful
Unfortunately, a massage is out of the question as you are on your own so the next best thing to relax your mind and muscles is a hot relaxing bath. Sprinkle in some essential oils and immerse yourself in the warmth and the aromas. Treat yourself to some super moisturising organic donkey milk soap for a uniquely Cleopatraesque experience!
After bathing, exfoliate and rinse. Follow this with a body mask. Use products that incorporate chocolate, coffee or even clay to truly recreate the spa effect. Finish with a deep moisturizing lotion.
Foot Spa
Now you can't really fulfil a true spa experience without a foot spa. If you don't own a home foot spa and, if you're really lucky, with a massaging feature too, never fear you can still recreate the experience. Just take a deep wide bowl large enough for both feet. Fill with warm water and add some Epsom salt and essential oils such as peppermint, rosemary or lavender. Take an exfoliation brush and exfoliate.
Really Nail It!
Now you're ready for the finishing touches - quite literally. So here's a quick guide on the best way to go about a home manicure and pedicure for the best results:
Remove any residue varnish from a previous mani/pedi. Tidy up your cuticles using a cuticle remover pen. File with a crystal nail file so as not to weaken the nails. Apply nail strengthener before applying varnish. Be patient and wait for each coat to dry thoroughly before applying more or reaching for your phone! But, of course, you're so laid back and relaxed now all you want to do is languish on your chaise-longue looking beautiful - social media can wait!
So do yourself a favour and pamper yourself at home and look and feel fabulous!
