FOR GET-TOGETHERS, convert two lounge chairs in the gazebo into massage beds. The inviting swimming pool serves as perfect backdrop for a “spampering” afternoon. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/Photo by Rudy Esperas
THE AUTHOR’S spa buddy built a spa haven right in her bathroom. She favors long bubble baths and sea salt body scrubs before a massage, making it a weekly regimen. She lights up aromatic candles to add a romantic feel. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/Photo by Rudy Esperas
MAXIMIZE the use of your swimming pool by turning it into a clutter-free private spa that evokes your mood. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/Photo by Rudy Esperas
MANILA, Philippines—Going to the spa is one of the easiest ways to relax. But is it really that easy? Making that trip to the spa can run the gamut of stressful situations—the traffic jam, scarce parking, rising cost of petrol that’s driving everyone crazy. There is also the risk of not getting your preferred time slot.
Maintaining your equilibrium need not be such a hassle. A moment of pampering is a reward you give yourself and this incredible journey can actually begin right in your home.
With a few essentials and a dash of creativity, you can carve a little space you can escape to anytime. Depending on your budget, you can create your spa room that can range from modest to lavish.
For starters, choose the spot in your house where you want to recreate the spa environment, preferably one that is quiet.
One of the secrets to creating a relaxing ambience is adopting a clean minimalist design. Be sure the place is clutter-free, with no reminders of the stuff that stop you from relaxing. The bathroom is the usual choice, but your choice could be anywhere.
My best friend converted her walk-in closet into a spa retreat. Every time she needs a back rub it is just a few steps from her bedroom.
Use neutral colors such as white and beige with subtle blues, greens and purples. These hues are known to calm the spirit.
Heighten your senses with a play of lights using candles instead of electric lights. Adding dimmer switch for the current light fixture is another option.
Induce scents with essential oils to suit your mood and purpose. Chamomile, for instance, is known for its tranquil effect; peppermint stimulates and revitalizes; while citronella is best for emotional healing. Essential oils should be mixed with some water when placed in an oil burner. These can also be blended with carrier oil for topical application.
Add sound to create a soothing background. Nature sounds, piano, flute and classical music are ideal but you can always play anything that suits your fancy. Just remember to keep the volume down.
Ideally, it would be better to build your bath, body and beauty treatment items around your favorite scent. My personal favorite is lavender, the most popular scent and choice of most spa establishments, for its soothing properties. A whiff of this sweet floral bouquet will evoke a sense of serenity within you.
Now that you have set the mood, stock up your space with the vital items. A home spa experience should include:
massage oil oil burner essential oils natural bristle bath brush loofah or terry washcloth (avoid using synthetic scrubbers) foot file body scrub product body wash hair treatment, shampoo and conditioner face cleanser, toner and moisturizer fluffy robes, towels and sheets
If you wish to go all out, construct a full range of day spa amenities such as your own steam room or dry sauna, hydro tub, vichy shower and massage beds.
Alternately, you can just modify your existing shower fixture with a showerhead with an adjustable water pressure, use a futon instead of a massage bed, or simply put together a “Spa Basket” with basic spa essentials you can bring to any corner of your home for a respite.
It’s more than vanity that drives people to plan their home spa. It gives you the convenience and freedom to unwind any moment.
There’s precious peace from an hour or two of uninterrupted time in this sanctuary that’s yours. A precious gift within your reach.
Copyright 2009 Philippine Daily Inquirer. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
To
subscribe to the Philippine Daily Inquirer newspaper in the Philippines,
call +63 2 896-6000 for Metro Manila and Metro Cebu or email your subscription request here.
Factual errors? Contact the
Philippine Daily Inquirer's day desk.
Believe this article violates journalistic ethics?
Contact the
Inquirer's Reader's Advocate.
Or write The Readers' Advocate:
c/o
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Chino RocesAvenue corner Yague and Mascardo Streets,
Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Or fax nos. +63 2 8974793 to 94
![Zoom Image](javascript:popwin("http://images.inquirer.net/media/showbizandstyle/lifestyle/lifestyle/images/pic-07230153050714.jpg", 410, 565))
Zoom
![Zoom Image](javascript:popwin("http://images.inquirer.net/media/showbizandstyle/lifestyle/lifestyle/images/pic-07230153250447.jpg", 640, 480))
Zoom
![Zoom Image](javascript:popwin("http://images.inquirer.net/media/showbizandstyle/lifestyle/lifestyle/images/pic-07230153460966.jpg", 640, 480))
Zoom
