Let’s face it. Going to the spa can be expensive. Per whatitcosts.com, ballpark estimates for individual spa treatments start at under $100, with packages running between $150 to $450 and up. While it’s important to feel refreshed, many people on budgets simply can’t afford to pay for pampering. Whether you need a facial, manicure, pedicure, mud bath, or other treatment, there are easy ways to turn your home into a make-shift spa. Here are eight tips:
1) Do not disturb – Spa experiences are generally soothing. Thus, it’s important to eliminate all distractions. Put work calls on hold, get household chores out of the way, and ship out the pets and kids so that this time can be all about you. Fewer interruptions allow you more time to discover inner peace.
2) Choose your ideal space – You’ll want to choose a private and quiet location for your spa treatments. Bathrooms outfitted with tubs are often suitable for treatments that require soaking. Bedrooms may also work well for treatments that require relaxation or meditation.
3) Create a spa station – Gather the supplies you need for your treatment so that everything is handy. For example, for a facial, you’ll need items like a cleanser, a steamer, some serum, jade or crystal facial rollers, clean washcloths, towels, and so forth.
4) Play soft music – Play soothing music on loop. Music should be relaxing in nature and contain sounds that bring peaceful imagery and thought to mind. Peaceful piano or guitar music, relaxation music for stress, and music for meditation are ideal genres.
5) Light a candle – Choose a soft scent that appeals to you and makes you feel calm and restful. Zoereport.com states that lavender and chamomile are two scents traditionally used to promote relaxation. They explain that floral scents like ylang-ylang and herbal notes like rosemary are also soothing.
6) Drink spa water – Hydration is not only important for overall physical health, but it can help detox and refresh the soul. Spa water is mineral water that is infused with healthy fresh fruit or herbs. To make your own, simply add some slices of lemon, lime, or oranges, and top with several sprigs of fresh mint.
7) Give attention to details – For a pedicure, create your own specialized foot soak to help remove calluses and possibly decrease foot inflammation. Simply fill a small basin up with warm water and add ½ cup Epsom salt. Wrap feet in wet hot towels like the spas do. Splurge on a good moisturizer to combat dry skin.
8) Use a cold eye compress – No home spa treatment is complete without a relaxing cold eye compress. All you need is two cold slices of cucumber or two refrigerated tea bags. Lay down and place one on each eye. Cold compresses work by reducing eye puffiness. Not only does it feel yummy, but it also refreshes the look of tired and worn eyes.
Indulging oneself in a spa treatment is delightful. But they can also be expensive and uncomfortable. Upon arrival, clients are often asked to wear one of those ridiculously ill-fitting robes while having procedures and treatments peddled. Instead, opt for a luxurious DIY spa treatment in the comfort of your own home. You’ll be surrounded there in the safe and tranquil environment you created, using your own techniques and treatments and the products you know and love best.