Time To Wind Down: Create Your Very Own Home Spa With Our Tips

Are you making time in your busy schedule for self-care? Sometimes we need to commit to pampering ourselves, but who has the time or energy?

Sure, you could schedule a full spa day or resort relaxation experience, but what about when it's the middle of the week, you have school or work in the morning, and you need a rest as soon as possible? 

That's when it's time to make a DIY spa day. You don't need to pay for an expensive spa every time you need a break. While there's nothing wrong with shelling out the cash and treating yourself from time to time, why not make a home spa experience that you can recreate time and time again whenever you're feeling worn out?

We're here to talk about everything you need to put together the perfect spa day at home that won't break your budget.

 

Make Your Perfect Bath

You don't need a spa for a comforting bath. Sure, you might not have a jacuzzi, but that doesn't mean that you can't fill up the tub for a relaxing evening. 

This is the time to be "extra" with your bath. If you think it's too much, add more and go overboard. You deserve it. 

A perfect bath doesn't have to be expensive, but it certainly can be if you want a once-in-a-while pampering session. Consider other bathtime additions and decide what works best for your needs and budget.

For the occasional hour-long bath, why not get some bath bombs? A good bath bomb can be expensive, but there's something fun and magical about watching them fizz and fill your water with color and glitter. Most good bath bombs have soothing scents and nourishing oils, so you leave your tub feeling soft and relaxed.

Do you want some more budget-friendly options? No problem. Bubble bath is affordable. You can get several baths out of one large bottle, and you still get the benefits of soothing scents (and the fun of bubbles!). 

Epsom salts are also great for an affordable but soothing bath. There are salts in many scented varieties, and they're good for sore muscles. 

 

Pamper Your Skin 

Don't forget to take care of your skin while you're having your spa day.

During your bath, why not treat your face to a mask? Whether you're dealing with acne and discoloration, looking for more hydration, or you want something cooling and nice on your skin while you bathe, there are face masks for everyone. 

DIY face masks aren't usually the best choice, but there are a few safe ones that use pantry ingredients or other affordable ingredients that you can get from any store. 

You can also buy one of the many face masks available online or in beauty stores. With the popularity of Korean skincare, sheet masks are available everywhere and they're the easiest masks to use.  

 

Use a Soothing Playlist

You should treat all of your senses when you're relaxing at your "spa." Put on a playlist and take yourself away from whatever noises are going on outside of your bathroom. Create a soothing space within your home. 

Everyone's ideal playlist will be different, and what's soothing to some won't be soothing to others. For example, if you're someone that likes to kick back and relax to pop-punk or metal music, you might seem strange to someone who prefers classical music.

If you find music too distracting, beach sounds, the sound of rain, or whale songs also make great relaxation background noise. When in doubt, incorporate white noise. 

 

Grab a Favorite Snack 

Speaking of treating all of your senses, don't forget your sense of taste. It might not seem right to eat and drink in the tub, but if you're feeling peckish, why not? 

Many people like bringing tasty drinks (with or without alcohol). The cool drink makes a nice contrast to the hot tub so you can keep a more regulated temperature. 

You can also grab some finger food to keep near you. Better yet, get a bathtub tray to set your snacks, drinks, and anything you want to keep in the tub (like a book) at your fingertips. 

 

Stay Warm and Comfy

There's nothing worse than that burst of cold that comes right after a hot bath. You can't stay in there forever, though, so make sure that you have something cozy to slip into when you get out of the tub.

There's no shame in going straight from the tub to your comfy pajamas, regardless of the time of day, but if you like some time to dry off, why not get yourself a plush robe and some slippers? 

A good robe is a game-changer. Wrap yourself in something soft that resists moisture and stay warm until you dry off. 

 

Do an At-Home Mani-Pedi 

End your spa session by pampering your hands and feet.

You can skip the footbath if you've already taken a dip in the tub, but try some thick lotions for your hands, feet, and legs to start your mani-pedi. This is also a great time to trim any nails that you've been neglecting.

Are you into nail art? Give yourself the full salon experience by making your nails fancy. Bring out all of your nail supplies and consider getting something flashier, like a gel kit or cute decals.

Take your time; this spa day is for you. 

 

Create a Spa Day at Home

You can wind down by creating your spa at home. Pamper yourself every week without breaking the bank, and you'll find yourself feeling more relaxed and ready for the stressors of work and school. 

Treat yourself; you deserve it. 

Are you looking for more self-care and wellness tips? At thankubody, we have companion zines for everyone. Whether you're interested in journaling, mental health, or any other kinds of self-guided support, we have something for every interest. Which zine is right for you? 

 

Image Credits: Matthew Henry, Avelino Calvar Martinez, Sarah Pflug