We all need some self-care from time to time, especially during periods of stress. But what do you do when it’s not possible to hit the spa or salon for an invigorating massage or rejuvenating mani-pedi?
Take a deep breath. It’s easy to create a spa-like experience at home with high-quality products that are just a click away. They may seem like luxuries, but right now, maintaining your health—both physical and mental—is more important than ever.
Here are some relaxing ways to take care of yourself without leaving home.
Set the Mood
Sure, even inexpensive candles can provide a warm, romantic glow, so why splurge on some fancy ball of wax? Well, creating a calming aroma—and not some overly synthetic scent—requires high-quality oils balanced just so with the wax. Companies like D.S. & Durga or Diptyque carefully source and test their materials to ensure that a sophisticated scent wafts through the air as the candle burns. Or order from Bijou Candles: Not only does their direct-to-consumer model help keep costs in check, but their candles are vegan and cruelty-free, bringing you peace of mind.
Face Forward
A fresh perspective starts with a fresh face. Quick and easy face masks can remove excess oils and impurities as they hydrate your skin. Getting your glow on could be as easy as visiting your kitchen for a 15-minute DIY face mask. Or go all in with options like the R+R Mask from Summer Fridays, which features oils rich in antioxidants and ground wild rose powder for exfoliation. Up your game with a facial steamer, like the Aira from Vanity Planet, whose ion generator is designed to deep-clean pores and stimulate circulation.
Mix Oil and Water
Fill up the tub for a relaxing soak. Give the water an assist with add-ins like Epsom salts, such as magnesium and sulfate, which are said to help with sore muscles. Or splurge on a vitamin-rich bubble bath from kai, whose argan oil and coconut promises to nourish and cleanse. For lovers of essential oils, Clarins offers a tonic full of rosemary, mint and geranium. No tub? No problem. Put some bath oils in the base of the shower and let the steaming water work its magic. Round out the experience with a meditation app or relaxing playlist. Ahhh.
Wrap Yourself in Cozy
Nothing says spa day quite like a plush towel and cozy bathrobe. Look for 100% organic cotton to keep harsh chemicals off your skin and out of the environment. Double down with towels and robes from Coyuchi, which come with a commitment to sustainable materials and ethical production practices. For the all-important robe, choose from a variety of weaves and cuts. Warm and absorbent, a full-length terry cloth robe wraps you in a plush hug, while in the warmer months, you may want something lighter, like a kimono-style linen robe from Serena & Lily.
Kick Up Your Feet
Feeling lethargic? Look down—you may need a foot massage, which has been shown to boost the body’s overall energy and reduce stress. Invest your pedicure budget in a massager to gin up your circulation and get you back on your feet. Go with a shiatsu foot massager from Miko, which offers deep kneading, shiatsu rolling and heat—all with a touch of the remote. Add water to the mix and go calf deep with a foot and leg spa from Sharper Image; underwater rollers stimulate your soles, while hydro jets bring a symphony of bubbles to your lower extremities.
Go Skin Deep
While hot water is relaxing, it can wreak havoc on your skin. So round out your routine by taking care of your body’s largest organ: Moisturize that epidermis with a high-quality hydrator that also soothes. Sleepy body lotion from Lush uses glycerin, cocoa butter and almond oil to hydrate and protect, while a triple hit of lavender enhances the serenity. And Bedtime Hero Magnesium Body Butter from Neom Organics really packs in the extras: Shea butter, aloe vera, grapeseed oil and coconut oil offer epidermal nourishment; magnesium helps alleviate pain and muscle cramps; and a blend of chamomile, ylang ylang and cedarwood combine calming forces to help you get a great night’s sleep.
Rich Beattie is a former executive digital editor of Travel + Leisure and has written for outlets such as The New York Times, Popular Science, New York Magazine and SKI.