By this time of winter, my psyche, skin and hair stage a revolt. Dry winter air and frayed nerves have taken their toll. Studies reveal we need to take care of ourselves in order to take care of others. Last year, I slipped away for an overnight spa trip with friends. It was lovely, but oh so temporary. The effects of the massage were erased when I arrived home to bickering kids and a pile of laundry.
In order to reap real benefits we need a daily dose of spa-ahhh. It's the cumulative effect that counts. But I don't have the time or the money for daily trips to Spa La Ti Da. Why not invest in our own home spa? It's time to take our daily routine to diva-inspired ritual. All you need is a few carefully chosen items and a good lock on the bathroom door.
Most bathrooms just need a refreshing redo of paint, fixtures, accessories and linens to become more spa-like. Choose colors that have a calming, soothing effect on you. Think about surroundings that make you feel comfortable. If you envision a roman bath, invest in marble touches and sculptures. Create a Zen retreat with bamboo plants and whisper soft colors. Hoping for Hollywood drama? Include a glam mirror and a satin slippers.
With cabinet space at a premium, potions and lotions are often visible. Transfer them to crystal decanters to create a less cluttered look. Get your towels out of the cabinet to create more storage for your new spa staples. Country girls can replace a boring metal towel rack with an antique ladder mounted to the wall. An étagère is a euro chic way to display towels. Speaking of towels, make sure yours are super soft and absorbent. QVC's
Solitude line offers the plushest on the planet. Heat them up in a
towel and blanket warmer. Ahhh.
The right lighting enhances your spa space. Dimmers work wonders for creating a mood, as do candles. For safety purposes, I prefer flameless. QVC's Candle Impressions line offers a wide array of scents and styles. Lavender and vanilla are known for their relaxing effect.
Tune in the quiet music. Play whatever brings down your blood pressure. I love the isymphony portable
mini speaker for iPod. In touching all the senses, we can't forget taste. Prepare fresh cut fruit, scones and Riston green tea
Riston green tea. For p.m. pampering, I prefer wine and
Godiva chocolate gems.
Stock up on products for facials, long lingering baths, hair care and body treatments. Caudalie offers a handy
spa in a box. The
spa shower wrap by Solitude offers arm-free warmth, fabulous fit and access for applying body treatments. For luscious locks, leave in a Wen or Ojon hair treatment and wrap it up in a
Turbie Twist I can't send over Sven the masseuse with magic fingers, but I can suggest the
HoMedics Shiatsu cushion with heat.
It's grand opening time. No appointments needed and no tipping at your own Ooh La La Spa. Slip in and let cares slip away. Whether it's for a half hour each evening or a weekly at-home getaway, make sure everyone understands you are unavailable. Do not answer the phone under any circumstances. And, absolutely no guilt is allowed. Why do we always feel guilty? All those psychologists can't be wrong. Last but not least. Lock the door.
Yours for a luxe life,
Susan Matthews
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