Want some more “me time”, but can’t afford to go the spa? Now, you can bring the spa to you, on the cheap!
1) Use an eye gel mask
An eye gel mask helps soothe tired, sore and dry eyes. Lay down and relax with one for 15 minutes, or longer. Chill the mask in the refrigerator ahead of time to enjoy the coolness on your face. Don’t have time? Put in the freezer for instant relief.
2) Give yourself a mud mask
Mud masks are very popular in spas. These treatments help to revitalize and rejuvenate the skin. The Borghese Facial Mud Mask gets your skin glowing in 20 minutes flat.
3) Treat yourself to a manicure/pedicure
Many pharmacies and beauty stores carry mani/pedi kits. They often include a nail file, clippers and cuticle pushers. Brighten up your nails with some pretty polish.
4) Get a free massage
Massages help reduce tension, stress and soreness in your muscles. Have a trusted friend or family member give you a neck message. Even better, have your significant other treat you to a full-body massage. (And vice-versa!)
5) Bathe
Instead of jumping into a public hot tub, use your own bath tub. Many people use bathing for relaxing or to treat pain or illness. Add some hot water and bathe for as however long you like.
6) Listen to relaxing music.
Soothing music helps reduce stress and helps you sleep better. It also immediately lifts your mood. Listen to spa music, meditative music or sounds of nature.
7) Enjoy a steamy shower.
Some spas have hot springs, which people use for relaxation or medical purposes. Hot water also helps open your pores and relieve tension in the muscles. Turn up the heat in the shower, and enjoy.
8) Take up yoga.
Yoga improves your health, your conscience and your flexibility. Find instructive yoga DVDs for beginners at any video or wellness store.
9) Incorporate soothing scents in your bedroom.
Aromatherapy, a type of alternative therapy, alters your mind, mood and health. Certain scents provoke certain senses in the brain. For example, lavender relaxes your mind while people use lemon oil as an anti-depressant. Use candles, oils or vaporizers to enjoy these scents in your bedroom.
10) Exfoliate
One popular facial used in spas is exfoliation. This process removes dirt and dead skin cells from the skins surface. Many pharmacies and beauty outlets carry exfoliation washes and kits. Don’t just stop at the face though. Exfoliate your body with an invigorating body wash. Some body washes contain microbeads, which scrub dirt and grime away.
Hot tip! Got kids or others living with you? Tell them that you need time to yourself. Lock yourself in your bedroom or bathroom, and use any or all of the above suggestions.
