#OLifeAtHome: Create Your Own Spa Day

There is nothing like time for yourself. Even though we have more time than ever to be at home, it can be easy to forget to carve out time to care for yourself and focus on your wellness. Since we all miss the tranquility and restorative treatments of the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, here’s an easy guide to create your own at-home spa experience.

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN WELLNESS: BEGIN WITH A STEAM
Begin your spa journey by recreating an aromatic steam room with a warm shower and essential oil. Try lavender, bergamot, ylang ylang or clary sage for relaxation and stress relief. Just put 10-12 drops of essential oil on a cloth and place it on the shower floor – where it will be exposed to mist but out of the direct stream of water to maximize the effects.

If you plan to do a facial or mask, try a face steam by heating water and then adding a couple of drops of essential oil to the water. Drape a towel over your head and the bowl, about 6 inches away from the water. Move closer to or away from the water for more or less heat. Start out with a few minutes and steam up to 5 to 10 minutes. Benefits of steaming include not only opening up your pores and relieving congestion but also promoting circulation and overall stress relief.

WASH YOUR CARES AWAY
Prepare your body to receive all the benefits from the treatment you have in mind. Prime your face or body with a cleanse after your steam to wash away impurities — salts, minerals and oils — that could possibly be a barrier to your skin. Be sure to have your favorite comfy robe on hand to don afterwards.

INDULGE IN THE MOMENT
Re-create a Relaxation Lounge in a calm corner of your home with a comfortable chair. Light a candle and perhaps meditate for a few moments or enjoy a cup of warm tea. Rich in antioxidants, tea can calm the mind and body prior to a treatment and offer a host of other health benefits depending on the selection. Try peppermint, chamomile or lemon balm tea for relaxation and improved sleep.

Savor an anticipated period of silence before your treatment. Close your eyes and inhale a deep breath. Exhale the breath and allow the mind to drift away. Enjoy the quiet. Let every bit of tension disappear.

YOUR TREATMENT OF CHOICE
Whether you choose to do a special facial, a spa pedicure or plan to enlist a friend or loved one for a stress-relieving massage, be sure to have all of the items you’ll need set up in advance. Some easy at home ideas include:

• A facial mask: your favorite or mix it up with a DIY mask, a sheet mask or even an eye mask


• A body scrub


• A hair mask or scalp treatment


• Spa manicure: add a hand soak, exfoliating scrub and a nourishing rose hip oil for hydration to your usual routine


• Foot soak with herbal bath salts: follow with a full pedicure or simply buff with a pumice stone after

LINGER IN YOUR LOUNGE
Extend your at-home spa experience by resting in your Relaxation Lounge after your treatment. The quietude will lull your mind and body into a deeper state of relaxation and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

What’s your favorite at-home spa treatment or wellness practice? Share it with us on Facebook and stay tuned for more #OLifeAtHome ideas!