Bring On The Zen (At Home)
As we begin to spend more time in the home this season, I cannot help but crave a (very overdue) spa day. One of favorite things to do after a long week is to draw a hot epsom bath, light a candle and slip into a detox-infused zen. Today, is no exception.
I love a good bath. There is something so lovely about the ritual of taking a bath. Maybe its the self-caring or the slowness of it – but for me it brings a sense of release. As soon as my body enters the hot, epsom-infused water I feel each muscle begin to soften.
A trip to the real spa is usually far and in between for me and is often reserved for special occasions (which I love, it keeps it special). Therefor I find myself more often than not trying to recreate a spa essence in my home when I’m looking to indulge on a weekly basis.
A few of my favorite things to have for a spa session are actually super easy to come by around the house. I like my spa sessions to be simple, indulgent moments for the senses.
01. Draw The Bath
I like my bath temp up pretty darn high. Not too hot that I can’t get into it – but hot enough that it feels like my pores are opening and my body is warm. If I get a good sweat going, thats amazing! My favorite bath oil is one that I swear by and never go without. It smells amazing, and leaves my skin feeling silky smooth. I then will usually add about 1 cup of epsom salts. These work wonders on your bod – they’re a natural anti-inflammatory and detoxifier – so if you have sore muscles these are for you.
02. Scent
Candles are a must for me when I’m in spa-mode. I usually opt for a diffuser as well – but something about lighting my favorite candle while sitting in the bath is such a lovely ritual. I’ll also diffuse eucalyptus or lavender essential oils.
03. Scrub
Like I said, a spa day is one for the senses. Touch, smell, sound – these are all part of the perfect spa experience. I’ll always opt for a very light and gentle exfoliator like this one for my whole body. I love Nessesaire because all of their ingredients are gentle and soothing for the skin.
04. Sound
I’m not one for traditional spa sounds…I don’t really love white noise either so I’ll turn on my favorite calming French jazz playlist and let it play lightly in the background.
05. The Details
I’m all about the details. They’re not always necessary – but when I really want to indulge I usually go for it. First, I’ll try to gather a few of my favorite flowers or stems from either around the apartment or in the garden. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve run out to the yard to grab a few flower petals to throw in the water with me. They just add such a nice touch of color and it feels really soothing.
I’ll grab a favorite book or magazine I’m reading, pour either a glass of wine or a favorite detox elixir, and settle in. I’ve been experimenting with gua sha recently and I love it. After cleaning my face and moisturizing I’ll do it to help release muscle tension and increase circulation. It also has a nice sculpting affect too – a little hidden “botox” alternative!
And relax!
Sometimes, sitting back, letting go, and just being are the hardest part about carving out time for yourself. I find that my mind with run down all the to-do lists of things I need to be doing – but I have to actively stop it and remind myself to sit back and just zen out.
You can pull off a lovely spa session for yourself with absolutely no products – however if you’re looking for a few new additions, these are my favorites! I use them on a weekly bases and could not recommend them more.
