Can Every Day Be A Spa Day?

Yes, every day can be a spa day. I recently visited the most wonderful day spa where I received a full body treatment - a deep tissue massage, a dermalogica facial, a mani/pedi and a hair wash/blowout. I left the salon feeling like a brand new person. I was amazed at the tension that was released from head to toe (literally) and I couldn't wait to take what I learned about relaxation back home. After all, why should these treatments be reserved for special occasions when they make us feel so good about ourselves? 

Don't limit your relaxation and so-called 'me time' to one or two days out of the month. When you include little methods of pampering in your everyday life, you will begin to feel a sense of inner peace that makes anything seem possible. Monday morning? Bring it. Tons of work? Puhh-lease. Sit back, take a massive chill pill and read about all of the little ways you can relax each day.

Light 'em up. 
No, Carrie Bradshaw, not the cigarettes - the CANDLES! One of my favorite things to do when I wake up is light the candles in my room, they are the perfect way to wake up my senses before I do anything else. I like how pretty the flames look from inside the candle holders I use and the scent is extremely soothing. I typically opt for seasonal candles and right now I'm enjoying fabulous pumpkin spice scents. You should tailor your flames to meet your needs - choose a lavender scent for ultimate relaxation before bedtime or a light citrus scent for a clean feeling kitchen or bathroom. The simple addition of lit candles takes any room from plain and normal to peaceful and refreshing.

Kick off your shoes. 
When I was at the spa, I only had my shoes on when I was entering and exiting. Instead, they gave me cozy little slippers to give my feet somewhere to rest in between the oh-so-wonderful foot massage and pedicure. When you leave your shoes on, your mind is in work mode which makes relaxing a bit difficult. So when you're at home, make a habit of putting on comfortable socks or slippers instead of leaving on your heavy shoes.

Be a mask enthusiast.
I have used just about every kind of facial mask you can imagine - from rose clay to charcoal to oatmeal. You name it, I've used it. I use masks on a regular basis because I like they way my skin feels afterwards. Don't expect all of your skin's issues to be resolved after using a simple mask, instead just look forward to the sweet sensation you will feel when you're finished. It's a basic step to add into your A.M. or P.M. beauty routine that will make you feel extra luxurious before or after a long day of work.

Sip, sip, sip
If I could carry around a bottomless glass of Veuve Clicquot with me all day I TOTALLY would, but alas, I cannot. Instead, I try to drink as much water as I can to help my body out - from my skin to my digestive system. If you're like me, plain water is just *okay* I mean, it certainly doesn't feel very glamorous chugging tap water. To elevate your hydration, try a full mug of warm water with fresh lemon in the morning, jasmine green tea in the afternoon and sparkling water with cucumber and lime with dinner.  These are great ways to spruce up a basic habit, like drinking water, to make you feel spa-worthy all the time!

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Email me your favorite relaxation tips at ashley.fashionspeak@gmail.com 

header photo by dubunne.com