While a day at the spa may be a popular form of self-care, time or budget constraints can keep us from taking that “me-time” we need. The good news? There are some easy ways to create a spa-like atmosphere at home and enjoy a stress-soothing, rejuvenating experience that boosts your mental and physical health.
Follow these step-by-step recommendations from LifeSpa experts to take your at-home relaxation to the next level.
1. Set the scene.
Ambiance can make a big difference when you’re trying to create a relaxing experience, so it’s important to be intentional when setting up your space. Ensure the room is clean and stocked with your fluffiest towels, turn on calming music, and set out a few of your favorite candles.
“Using aromatic candles to create an environment with the right scents and ambiance can influence your mood and energy levels, providing a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life,” says Tania Caban, massage therapist at LifeSpa in Westchester, N.Y.
Caban also notes that the act of inhaling certain scents can stimulate the brain, triggering the release of serotonin and dopamine; this can help elevate your mood and lower cortisol (the hormone associated with stress and anxiety). “Beyond the scents, the flickering light of a candle has a gentle, soothing effect on the mind,” she adds.
Caban recommends: Aromatic Candle from Zents. She says this candle offers 12 aroma options, and if you stop into LifeSpa to take the complimentary Zents Aroma Journey experience, you can pinpoint a scent that’s right for you.
On spa day, “set an intention for your time in the space you’re creating,” Caban suggests. “Having a clear focus can deepen your relaxation experience. By thoughtfully creating this environment, you invite both peace and joy into your home.”
2. Start with a steamy shower.
While many think of a bath as the ultimate at-home spa experience, a steamy shower is also a great option — especially when you have the right products.
“Steamy showers offer a multitude of benefits that go beyond simple relaxation,” Caban says. “The warm, moist air can improve circulation, delivering oxygen-rich blood to muscles and joints and aiding in their repair and recovery. This is especially beneficial after exercise or physical activity, as it can reduce soreness and promote quicker healing.”
For an in-shower aromatherapy experience, use a shower steamer, which is a product full of essentials oils that releases aromatic scents when exposed to water and steam. Place the steamer on the floor of the shower or on a shower shelf where it can fizz and vaporize. Common ingredients include eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and lemon.
“The simple act of breathing deeply in the shower can enhance the relaxation process,” Caban explains. “Focus on your breath, inhale the soothing steam, and let go of tension as you allow the heat to work its magic on both your body and mind. Taking time to enjoy the experience is essential for maximizing its full range of benefits.”
As you take in the aroma and steam of the shower, begin to cleanse your hair and body.
“The steam will open your pores, helping to loosen dirt and release oils trapped in the skin, allowing for deeper cleansing,” Caban says. “A steamy shower makes it easier to expel toxins and can leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.”
Caban recommends: Spongelle (available at LifeSpa in a variety of scents). “The Spongelle has a built-in body wash inside a buffer designed to exfoliate the skin,” she says. “I love how it makes my skin feel clean, hydrated, and smooth after I use it.”
While washing your hair, be mindful while lathering and give yourself a soothing scalp massage. And once your hair is washed and rinsed, consider applying a hair masque for extra conditioning.
3. Apply your favorite luxurious body lotion.
Once out of the shower, lock moisture into your skin with your favorite body lotion. This is the best time to do so as your pores are open after and more ready to receive the nourishing benefits of the lotion.
“When you’re just out of the shower, gently pat your skin dry with a towel before applying lotion,” says Laura Bellendier, advanced practiced esthetician at LifeSpa in Eden Prairie, Minn. “Start by applying at the ankles and work upward in circular motions.”
Bellendier recommends: BodiFirm by Revision Skincare. “For added firmness and tone, I absolutely love applying this lotion as it helps with hydration, tightening the skin, and reducing dimpling. “On days when my skin feels extra dry, I mix shea butter with an organic oil like jojoba to create a homemade body butter,” she explains.
4. Massage your face and neck.
Next up, time for some facial gua sha, the ancient practice of scraping the skin with a stone tool for massage purposes and to help contour the face. It has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine to reduce stagnation and improve circulation of vital energy, or chi. (Learn more: “How to Gua Sha Your Face and Neck.”)
“Gua sha is a great way to elevate your self-care rituals,” says Nycole Hutchens, esthetician at LifeSpa in Houston, Texas. “I love doing it at home every other week or when my face feels puffy. It helps reduce the puffiness and improve blood circulation, and promotes lymphatic drainage, which leaves the skin looking fresh and radiant. Combined with a good serum it really enhances the at-home skin-care experience.”
Hutchens recommends: Bian Stone from Yina and Eminence Facial Recovery Oil. “This stone tool is a beautiful option as it’s made of Bian Shi, a micro-crystalline stone that contains more than 30 minerals that are beneficial to the body,” she says. “Before diving into the facial massage, I like to apply a facial oil to help the stone glide across the skin. This one is deeply hydrating and good for all skin types.”
5. End with a guided meditation.
Meditation can be a great way to wrap up your at-home spa day and help you retain all those relaxing vibes. The Life Time app has several options for guided meditations that address stress release, sleep, gratitude, and more.
While you meditate, Hutchens suggests habit stacking with some red-light therapy. “I love using the HigherDose Red Light Face Mask for about 20 minutes before bed. Red-light therapy has many benefits for your skin and can also help boost your mood. The warmth from the red light helps you to further relax and is an overall good stress reliever. Combine that with the meditation and you’re off to dreamland,” says Hutchens.
