The information in this post is my opinion and I was not compensated in any way by any of the companies that are represented.
Do you ever feel like you need a break from the everyday stresses of life, but you do not want to leave home? As I was contemplating what I liked best about being at home the other day a thought hit me.
First, there are many reasons that I like being at home but one of my favorite things that I do for myself is create a mini spa day. I do this almost every week. It is one of my go-tos after I have finished my house cleaning routine for the day. By the way, my cleaning routine will be the subject of a future post. Ooh, I bet you can’t wait for that one.
First let’s talk about why you really need to create a mini spa for yourself. In this article by The Recovery Village, it states that women and single parents are at a higher risk for stress related health issues. Also, according to this article, stress can be a contributing factor for serious health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. So how do you know when you need some relaxation in your life? Well, here are a few indicators of stress throughout the body: acid reflux, sleep issues, loss of appetite and headaches.
Enough of the grim stuff, let’s get back to now. I think I can hear you shouting at me through the magic of technology. How can I create a stress free, relaxing mini spa for myself when I have all these kids running around or I when I have a million things to do? I get it, I still have a few of those days and I vividly remember when my children were small and needy. However, in this post, let’s discuss 7 steps that will help you create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience right at home! A magical mini spa just for you.
Choose a Day When You Can Have at Least 30 Minutes of Uninterrupted Time for Your Mini Spa Experience
If you are thinking that you have no uninterrupted time throughout your day because you live in a small space or have young children, here are some ideas that you can try.
- Put your children in a playpen or their crib with their favorite toys.
- Use nap time as time for yourself.
- Put your children in a bouncy seat or on an activity mat near where you are.
- Have older children entertain young children. Even children as young as five can help entertain little siblings.
- Play a favorite movie or cartoon.
Decide What Mini Spa Treatments You Would like to Indulge In
I do my mini spa routine when I get in the shower right after cleaning my bathroom. Bathrooms are disgusting and one of the ways that I get through this nasty cleaning chore is thinking about my 30ish minutes in the shower afterward.
I always start off with a facial mud mask. I put this on while I am cleaning my bathrooms so that by the time I am done with my bathrooms, the mask is ready to be rinsed off and I can easily do that in the shower. Then I use my favorite Mr. Teal’s body scrub. It comes in a variety of scents, and you can get it at most retail box stores. Here are a few more suggestions:
- Instead of a shower take a bubble bath.
- Soak your feet and give yourself a foot massage.
- Paint your nails.
- Concentrate on body maintenance such as exfoliating or shaving.
- Sprinkle essential oils around the edges of your shower and breathe in the invigorating scents.
- Upgrade your shampoo and conditioner regimen with a hot oil treatment.
Gather all Needed Supplies
Because I treat myself every week, I keep all my supplies in the shower so that they are readily available. You might want to create a mini spa basket or portable container with items such as a dry brush, exfoliating lotion, a razor, nail polish, and your favorite body scrub. When it is time for your mini spa relaxing routine you can easily transport your basket or container to the bath or shower.
Set the Mood by Lighting Some Candles or Playing your Favorite Playlist
Do you have a favorite candle that you only use for special occasions? Well get it out, you are a special occasion. Do you have a favorite radio station or playlist that you like to listen to? Que it up and sway to beat. Be careful of slippery surfaces though, you can’t live life to your fullest if you fall and injure yourself. Again, I speak from experience on this one. In addition, you may want to dim the lights for a more spa like atmosphere.
Start With a Clean Slate
If you do this routine after chores, such as cleaning the bathroom, you will probably want to shower and clean your body first before the pampering starts. The warm water helps to de-stress your muscles and the act of cleansing your body can help to clear your mind. If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed this is wonderful way to begin this self-care period. This is also an excellent time to exfoliate and shave if needed.
Use Body Scrubs or a Hydrating Mask
After cleansing and required body maintenance use your favorite body scrub. Make sure to especially treat the rough areas such as elbows, hands, and heals. If you did not do a facial mask before you got into the bath or shower apply the mask and relax while you are waiting for it to harden. If you are in the bathtub, you could take these few minutes to read a book (here are some of my favorites), or your favorite magazine, or just soak and breathe in the luxuriating scents wafting in the air.
Towel Off and Moisturize
Oh, my favorite time. After I towel dry I apply my favorite body power which is Gold Bond Ultimate Body Powder to areas prone to perspiration. This powder smells amazing and is talc free. I have used this powder for several years and it is my absolute favorite. After the body powder comes the lotion. Apply your favorite lotion and give your feet a mini massage. Finally, if you have a weekly nail routine now would be the time to implement that.
I am not particularly good at nail painting, so I schedule manicures and pedicures on this day also.
So that is it. If you are feeling stressed, take some time and give yourself a mini spa day. It can be as simple as taking a relaxing bath, reading your favorite book, or spending time outside in nature. Whatever relaxes you the most, try to make time for it during the week. Not only will you feel better after taking some time for yourself, but you may also find that you are more productive when you are not so bogged down by stress. What are some of your favorite ways to relax and de-stress? Let me know in the comments. As always feel free to share this content with family and friends.
