Relax for less: Relaxation Techniques for an At-Home Spa Day

When you're stressed and tired, a day at the spa may sound like a dream come true. Of course, if you don't have the time or the money for a spa day, that type of deep relaxation can seem more like a pipe dream. You don't need a big budget and tons of time to find your Zen. Instead, the right mood, products, and relaxation techniques can help you unwind without breaking the bank. Here's how.

Set the Mood

Among the benefits of a spa are the mood and atmosphere. Spas are quiet, dim, and geared toward making patrons feel relaxed and rested. Make your home more spa-like by doing a little prep work to create a calming space. Clean up any clutter and light a candle in a calming scent like vanilla. Then, pop on a relaxing soundtrack and curl up with a soothing cup of Bigelow Cozy Chamomile tea. It doesn't matter if you have an hour or just a few moments; just taking the time to create a calming mood can help your mind feel more relaxed.

Ready, Set, Relax

One of the best ways to relax and soothe your body and mind is by taking a warm bath. In fact, most spas offer hot tubs and personal baths as a way for patrons to kick back and enjoy the calming, skin-softening benefits. With the right products, you can create a spa-like bath experience in the comfort of your own home that will transport you to cloud nine—at least for a few minutes!

Start by dimming the lights in your bathroom. Then, run the water at your preferred temperature while you sprinkle in some Epsom salts. Epsom salts are often used in spas to help relax tense muscles and draw toxins out of the body. Take your bath to the next level by choosing lavender scented salts; the lavender scent will help calm your mind while the mineral salts will leave your skin silky and soft.

Pampering Extras

If you have some additional time, add a few luxurious extras to complete your at-home spa day. Treat yourself to a mini facial and apply a face mask, such as the Freeman Feeling Beautiful Avocado & Oatmeal Facial Clay Mask, which will leave your pores cleansed and your skin looking bright and refreshed. No spa day would be complete without showing your hard-working hands and feet some love, so pamper them with a mini manicure and pedicure. If you've been feeling particularly stressed, try some relaxation techniques such as focused breathing, meditation, or even a 20-minute yoga video to stretch and renew your body as you give your mind a well-deserved break.

While a trip to the spa might sound heavenly, a tight schedule and budget could have you feeling extra anxious. However, with a few wallet-friendly products and simple techniques, you can relax and rejuvenate your mind and body without ever leaving your home.

By Jae Curtis

Sources:

Mayo Clinic, Is There an Effective Herbal Treatment for Anxiety?

University of Maryland Medical Center, Lavender

Arthritis Foundation, Warm Water Works Wonders on Pain

Mayo Clinic, Relaxation Techniques

These articles are not a substitute for medical advice, and are not intended to treat or cure any disease. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise, or medication regime.