It’s not uncommon for us to make “me time” a lower priority on our long list of essential to-dos. But what if we told you that relaxing isn’t an option, it’s a necessity for wholistic well-being — both mental and physical?
It’s true. Relaxation, according to studies, has been linked to lower levels of stress, anxiety, depression and even pain, which can result in lower heart rate and blood pressure, better quality sleep and more energy. So the next time you’re deprioritizing relaxation, instead, consider carving out time for an at-home spa night with the following ideas.
1. Dry brush your body.
Begin your at-home spa experience by dry brushing the skin on your body to help exfoliate, stimulate lymphatic drainage and boost circulation. To do this, dry brush in wide, circular, and clockwise motions beginning at your feet and working upward, finishing with your arms. Be sure to avoid your face and any areas with sunburn, wounds, rashes, eczema or psoriasis. Then, after loosening up all those dead skin cells, rinsing off in a quick, cool shower is preferred.
2. Take a hot bath.
Now that you’ve exfoliated and rinsed your body, it’s time for the relaxing part. One of the ultimate ways to chill out is by soaking in a tub because the benefits of a hot bath at night are endless. From helping to relax sore muscles and soothing skin to relieving stress and promoting a better night’s sleep, we can’t think of more convincing reasons to bathe. Mix in some bath salts, a bath bomb or add a few drops of our nourishing Essential Fx Acyl-Glutathione Chia Body Oil to really indulge your senses.
3. Light your favorite candle.
While you’re at it, whether it’s before, during or after your bath, light a candle. Not only does it look pretty and smell divine, but it is believed to help foster concentration, enhance relaxation and reduce stress. It’s a simple way to signal “calm” to your brain and body. Consider a scented lavender, eucalyptus or vanilla candle to drift you further into a state of zen.
4. Do a hair mask.
As you soak, apply a hair mask and let it work its magic while you rest. I mean, who doesn’t love multi-tasking (yes, even during self-care)? That way you can step out of the tub in a peaceful state, but your hair will also feel as reinvigorated — nourished, soft and smelling fresh.
5. Give yourself an at-home facial.
Perhaps our favorite part of any spa treatment at home is, of course, the DIY facial with the following, luxurious steps.
STEP 1: Cleanse with Essential Fx Acyl-Glutathione Chia Cleansing Balm.
Between the sweat that likely accumulated around your hairline from the bath and the impurities your skin has collected throughout the long day, washing your skin as the first step of your facial is a must. This cleansing balm is the most luxurious way to do this because it melts away dirt, debris, excess oil and makeup while nourishing your skin so it’s left feeling replenished and conditioned even after it’s washed off.
STEP 2: Massage your face to encourage lymphatic drainage.
A facial would be incomplete without a lymphatic massage, right? After cleansing, gently massage your face in small circular motions with the tips of your fingers in upward and outward motion (think lifting). Then, mix in some tapotement, or the soft, rapid tapping of your fingertips, along the cheeks, under-eye area, and forehead. Finally, using the middle knuckles of your bent pointer and middle fingers, glide along your jawline, cheekbones, and eyebrow bones. Repeat every motion on both sides to help circulate lymphatic fluid that may be causing congestion, puffiness or sagging.
STEP 3: Kick back and relax with Cold Plasma Plus+ The Intensive Gel Mask.
Now that your skin is cleansed and massaged, it’s mask time. Find your favorite spot to lounge for 10-15 minutes so you can hydrate and chill with this multi-tasking gel mask. It delivers an instant boost of cooling moisture to visibly improve dullness, uneven texture and tone, winkles and loss of firmness.
STEP 4: Rinse and apply High Potency Hyaluronic Intensive Hydrating Serum.
After rinsing the mask off with warm water, keep the intense hydration coming with this fast-absorbing serum formulated with four forms and two natural building blocks of hyaluronic acid for visibly smoother, firmer and plumper skin.
STEP 5: Moisturize with Cold Plasma Plus+ The Intensive Hydrating Complex.
Then, let this ultra-rich, antioxidant-powered moisturizer dramatically smooth, firm and even your complexion while strengthening its barrier so your skin looks and feels healthier and more youthful.
STEP 6: Lock it all in with Essential Fx Acyl-Glutathione Chia Oil.
As the final step in your at-home facial, this intensely nourishing oil will seal in all the benefits of the previous steps while replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier, visibly softening wrinkles and creases, improving elasticity and plumping.
Don’t worry, though. Your spa night doesn’t have to be all-consuming. Even carving out thirty minutes of your time will make the world of a difference. Breathe in, breathe out and enjoy.