Take Time For Yourself

The word's getting out: By borrowing a few insider ideas from massage therapists and skin docs, you can ease tension and feel luxurious in your own bathroom. What's better is that you don't need to stock up on high-end health resort potions or fancy massage contraptions. Using a few tricks of the spa trade and supplies you probably already have on hand, you can help you de-stress after any long day. Here are easy tips for creating your at-home spa.

Set the mood. Whatever treat you plan to indulge in, don't underestimate the power of your setting. Re-create a spa atmosphere with a little mellow music. Dim the lights and add candles.

Make a better bath. To ease aches and pains, add 2 cups of Epsom salts to your bath. Just looking to relax? The scent of lavender can help decrease stress hormones--add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the tub. Then slide in the water (best at 97° to 99°F) all the way, with just your face peeking out. The more of your body you submerge, the more capillaries you'll open, leading to a more relaxed sensation. To fall asleep quicker and more deeply, plan your bath 60 to 90 minutes before bedtime.

Savor a sweet facial. Forget those expensive face scrubs and masks--grab a jar of honey. Along with helping improve acne, the gooey amber stuff also moisturizes and is a potent antioxidant. Spread a thin layer over your face and neck and allow it to stay there for 10 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.

Refresh tired feet. Soaking your feet in tea can be very soothing. First, brew a strong peppermint or chamomile tea by steeping four tea bags in 2 cups of boiling water for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the brew to 1 gallon of hot water. Soak your feet for 5 minutes. Slosh your feet in the water and let the tea's warm scent relax you. Then drain the water and pour some cold water over your feet. Follow that with hot water from the tap and then more cold.

Enjoy DIY massage. Place your palm over the muscle group you're targeting. Keep your four fingers together but your thumb a few inches away so your thumb and index finger form a V. Glide your hand up and down the muscle, applying just enough pressure to indent your skin. Do between 5 and 50 strokes, until you feel a warming sensation in the muscle.