HOW TO SPA AT HOME

 

A number of years ago, I had the pleasure of conducting over twenty on-air television interviews with national media on various aspects of at-home spa-ing.  As a recognized expert in spa, beauty and wellness, I focused on ways to create an environment conducive to relieving stress, even if a person had never been to a spa.  When it comes to at-home spa-ing, remember that this is about you, your preferences and your space.  Avoid outside influences such as other people’s opinions, which can be both annoying and stressful.

·       The purpose of spa-ing is to de-tress, relax, rejuvenate and regenerate and is sensory-driven.  Sensory stimuli will in fact impact a person’s stress level.  Some of these include harsh lighting, excessive noise (human voice, vehicles, music, etc.), offensive aromas (toxic chemicals or artificial substances), offensive tastes, temperatures that are too hot or too cold, and anything that is disruptive to one’s normal routine or state of “being”.

·       While some of these annoyances and disruptions may not be within one’s control to totally avoid or even minimize, one’s coping mechanism controls the sensory annoyance or disruption.

·       The traditional concept of spa has always involved water; so the most logical place within one’s home to create an at-home spa environment is the bathroom. 

·       The overall space of a bathroom is probably limited and confined, compared to other room sizes in the average home.  Confined spaces can also create stress.  If your bathroom tends to be cluttered, try and eliminate as much clutter as possible in order to create as much of a stress-free environment as possible.

·       Try to control the room’s lighting.  If you don’t have a dimmer switch, consider using a lower wattage bulb.  High wattage bulbs are bright and also emit heat, which in turn can elevate levels of stress. 

·       Consider turning the artificial lighting off and utilize soy candles, which burn more efficiently and don’t emit toxins from artificial ingredient or much heat.  Choose one that’s infused with an aroma you enjoy.  While the candle burns, the essential oils in the candle will diffuse the aroma into the air.  Eliminate any harsh odors in the bathroom and always use non-toxic cleaners that get the job done minus the harsh chemical ingredients.  Consider using a natural atomizer spray, or a diffuser.

·       Bring some nature into the space.  Natural growth, like plants or flowers, adds a calming effect and keeps you in tune with it.

·       If your tub is deep enough for a languid and calming soak, use water softened with scented bath salts, or have some fun and take a bubble bath.  If you only have a shower, use a gentle cleansing product that is non-drying and has a pleasant aroma.  Gentle aromas help to stimulate the olfactory and induce a calming effect.

·       Play some soothing music while soaking in the tub or once you come out of the shower.  The music stimulates the auditory, thereby creating a sense of calm.

·       Indulge yourself with thick and thirsty toweling made of natural fibers that will be gentle on the skin and feel extravagant to the touch.

·       Leave your skin slightly damp and apply a body oil or a dense hydrating cream to seal in moisture.

·       Top your at-home spa experience by sitting down and savoring the moments while sipping a calming cup of hot herbal tea (tisane); avoid anything alcoholic or caffeinated. 

·       At this point, you should be ready to nod off and get a good night’s sleep in your comfy bed and wake up the next morning refreshed and energized.

Creating an at-home spa environment and immersing yourself in that environment isn’t hedonistic.  And while it may be about you, remember that it’s also an investment in your well-being.  Plan how you want to use some daily time for yourself and try to schedule it in your busy schedule.  Treat it like an appointment and something you have to do.  You’ve earned it and you most definitely deserve it. 

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker.  She also serves on EXPERIENCE | PREMCHIT Journeys In Retreat To Wellness Advisory Board, which is comprised of ten international experts in various fields of wellness and spa.  She also serves as a Group Manager for the popular LinkedIn group, The Spa Buzz.  You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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