Pamper yourself: create a personal home spa oasis

STRESSED out, tired and in desperate need of a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday routine? When the pressures of life come crashing down on you, a weekend getaway filled with peace and relaxation at a luxurious spa or resort sounds like music to your ears. Yet escaping to a spa is not something most are able to do on a regular basis.

But you do not have to wait for those twice-a-year indulgences in lavish pampering to relax your mind, body and soul. With some planning and foresight, a heavenly retreat could be just a few steps away in the privacy of your own bathroom.

When you initially ponder creating the home-spa experience, you may think you need to completely remodel your bathroom and fill it with chrome finishings, marbled floors, quaint artistry and expensive products. But regardless of the style and size of your bathroom, you can create your own piece of paradise without breaking the bank. With just a few inexpensive and essential elements, the smallest of bathrooms can be transformed from the mundane to a glorious retreat.

The first thing you need to do is set aside a special “me time.” Pick a day or even a few hours when you can set aside uninterrupted, quiet time for yourself. Whether it’s an hour or an entire day, just make sure that your loved ones know that you are not to be disturbed.

The next key element is a clean, clutter-free bathroom and secondary space or room. While you don’t have to do a redesign, rubber duckies and dirty clothes hanging off the side of the hamper do not help set the mood. Clear your bathroom of distracting items. Make sure your tub and shower are clean. If you enjoy the scent of fresh flowers, place vases with your favorite blossoms in the bathroom. You can also place fragrant candles around the tub or on the counter, and toss rose petals into the water to further set the atmosphere. Make sure your favorite robe and/or pajamas are clean and ready to wear. Your secondary room should be clutter-free as well for part two of your spa treatment. This may be your bedroom, but it can be any other room in your home where you can relax comfortably.

Before you draw your bath, prepare a “spa basket.” You can fill it with fresh towels, shower gels, soaps, massage oils, loofah sponges, facial mask treatment, pumice stones, manicure and pedicure tools, and any other items you think you may need. Place your basket near the tub so your items will be handy. Take time to choose the type of products you want to enjoy. Some may be your favorite standbys, but also try new products.

If you enjoy music, play your favorite, soothing jams. Or just lie back, relax and enjoy the quiet time alone. A relaxing bath pillow in the tub can provide the comfort and support you need. When you run your water, add your favorite bubble bath. Before stepping into the tub, apply a facial mask that is formulated for your skin type. While in the bath, push back cuticles with your manicure tools and use a pumice stone on your feet to remove hardened skin.

Once your soak is done, pamper your skin with moisturizers or massage oils. You can continue with your spa treatment in the designated secondary room. There, you can finish your manicure and pedicure by painting your nails. Or just relax and read, or catch up on some much-needed beauty rest. The key is to make sure you are relaxed so that you can fully savor the privacy and soothing benefits of your own home-spa retreat.