If you can't get to a spa retreat -- or if it's beyond your budget -- try creating your own mini spa experience at home. The following is a short routine that provides some of the benefits of a visit to the spa at a fraction of the cost.
1. Set aside one-and-a-half to two hours, when you know you can relax without interruption.
2. Prepare the bathroom: • Light a candle • Start filling the bathtub with hot water • Add your favourite foaming bath or bath salts
6. Practise a relaxation technique for 10 to 15 minutes: • Take a few deep, cleansing breaths. • Begin to let your muscles relax. Start by focusing on the face, then move on to the neck and shoulders, and move down your body toward your toes.
7. Remove the facial mask.
8. Get out of the tub and pat yourself dry.
9. Apply a moisturizing body lotion and face cream.
10. Wrap yourself up in a warm robe or blanket, sit with your feet up and listen to relaxing music or a guided meditation CD.
This routine will leave you feeling very relaxed and refreshed. Follow it often -- after all, you deserve to pamper yourself.
Alison Finney is a certified hatha and kundalini yoga teacher in Ottawa. She is registered with the Yoga Alliance and the International Kundalini Yoga Teachers Association and is the founder of PranaShanti, a health and yoga resource. For more information, visit www.pranashanti.com.
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