There's nothing like a spa day to help unwind and de-stress, but if you haven't got the time or budget to indulge, there are a few simple tricks to recreate the experience from the comfort of your own home. From how to make a natural body scrub to top tips for a relaxing bath, we take a look at the top tips for creating a DIY spa experience…
© Photo: iStockYou can recreate a spa experience at home
HOW TO: Prep before the spa experience
Make time to get relaxed
Set aside a day or just a couple of hours which you can devote to winding down. Turn off your phone and laptop – you wouldn't constantly check them if you were actually at a spa, so follow the same rules at home.
Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of chilled spring water (with a splash of lemon or lime) if you're planning on doing a few treatments as this not only keep your body hydrated, but it will also give your body a healthy detox.
Set the scene
If you don't want complete silence then try some calm or soothing music. Light a few scented candles for a touch of aromatherapy - lavender is said to help relieve stress while citrus scents can be invigorating. If you're trying to unwind in the evening, geranium and jasmine scents can help soothe and relax you. For the extra spa-like finish, don a bathrobe and slippers.
© Photo: iStockSet aside the time to relax and switch off your phone and laptop
HOW TO: recreate spa treatments
When picking what treatments you do, make sure not to overload your skin. Also work out the order of treatments – you don't want to be giving yourself a manicure only to ruin it with a body scrub later. Natural body scrub
Banish dry skin by exfoliating your body with a homemade scrub. We love a cucumber and mint for a refreshing and nourishing combination. Take one large cucumber and 2 tablespoons of fresh mint leaves and use a blender to mix the two. Pour into a bowl before stirring in about 170g of granulated sugar, with four tablespoons of olive oil – stir until it's all combined. If you want a firmer mixture, add more sugar. Store in the fridge.
Homemade face mask
Before applying a mask, make sure to prep your skin by cleansing properly. A honey and citrus mask can leave you with a healthy glowing complexion – simply combine three tablespoons of orange juice with honey, apply to the face and leave on for half an hour. Rinse away with lukewarm and cold water, then apply a moisturiser.
© Photo: iStockHomemade scrubs and face masks can be a budget-friendly way of having a spa treatment
Relaxing bath
There's nothing like a long, hot bath to unwind at the end of the day, but with a few tricks you can add to the relaxation. Light a few scented candles in the bathroom, then put some luxurious bath salts and bubblebath in the tub before getting in – it will feel like you're staying at a five-star spa.
Steam facial
Start by cleansing your skin with your usual cleanser, then wash your face with water and pat it dry. Bring a small pot of water to a boil, and pour it into a ceramic bowl resting on a folded towel or two. Add essential oils – camomile is great for relaxing while peppermint can help overcome a cold. Next hold your face over the steaming water (don't get too close) and drape a towel over your head to create a tent as you do so. Do this for ten minutes and then apply a face mask.
