Take a Time Out: 5 Tips for Creating a Relaxing Spa At Home

RealBeauty.com

Who doesn't want to spend an afternoon (or a weekend!) getting pampered at a posh spa? But indulging in a day of decadence at the hands of a pro can be expensive. Luckily, it's actually possible to re-create the experience - from the relaxing ambiance to the impressive results - at home. Here, experts share their best DIY moves. Related: 52 Ways to De-Stress Now

Pay Attention to the Details
Part of what makes the spa experience so luxurious is the little extra touches. That's why you should do some prep work before you start your treatments. Throw your robe in the dryer for 10 minutes so it's warm and fluffy when you want to lounge. Nuke a neck wrap in the microwave for two minutes to help your muscles relax while you soak in the tub, and stash a cooling gel eye mask in the freezer (a bag of frozen peas also works) for a quick pick-me-up. -Hefina Rees, lead esthetician, and Vicki Cairns, spa supervisor, at Silver Rain, a La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Grand CaymanRelated: How to Mood-Proof Your Day

Scent Your Space
What aroma takes you to your happy place? Chances are it's not cleaning supplies or last night's dinner. To make your home smell spa-like, burn a heavenly scented soy candle, place pretty potpourri in each room, or use aromatherapy diffusers. The most universally soothing fragrances: lavender, eucalyptus, and citrus. -Suzanne Gibson, spa director, Mokara Spa at the Omni Houston Hotel

Create a Calming Playlist
Don't worry - we're not suggesting that you load your iPod with Enya's greatest hits. That said, the right music is crucial to creating a calming atmosphere. A good rule of thumb is to choose songs that are tuned into your heartbeat at rest (about 60 to 80 beats per minute). Some mellow ideas: light jazz and R&B, classical, and anything by Jack Johnson. -Suzanne Gibson, spa director, Mokara Spa at the Omni Houston HotelRelated: Soothe Jangled Nerves with Easy Yoga Poses

Raid the Fridge
Even the fanciest spas approve of using basic (and cheap!) ingredients in at-home treatments. For example, you can make a moisturizing face mask by mixing a tablespoon of honey with one egg white. Apply the mixture to your face and rinse off after 10 minutes. Another homespun recipe: Mash a fresh pineapple or papaya into a paste and mix it with a bit of olive oil and honey. Apply to your face and rinse off after 10 minutes. -Hefina Rees, lead esthetician, and Vicki Cairns, spa supervisor, at Silver Rain, a La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Grand CaymanRelated: 5 At-Home Pedicures You'll Want to Try

Stay in the Zone
When you're finished with your at-home treatments, sip a spa-approved beverage of your choice (fruit-infused water, red wine, or herbal tea) while relaxing with a book. This is the time to take a break from magazines and newspapers and indulge in an art or architecture book. Allow your mind to wander for just a few moments longer before you join the real world again. -Hefina Rees, lead esthetician, and Vicki Cairns, spa supervisor, at Silver Rain, a La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Grand CaymanRelated: Scary Ways Stress Can Ruin Your Looks

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