Who doesn’t love a day of relaxation at the spa? No one we know, that's for sure! A spa visit may seem like a dream that's far out of reach right now, but be patient. Spas will be back, and you will be back at the spa! Meantime, who’s to say that you can’t re-create the experience for yourself at home?
As the seasons change, and the colder, drier weather moves in, it's important to exfoliate your skin on a regular basis. An at-home, DIY exfoliation will not only soften the skin, it will feel good to practice a little self-care!
We spoke with Kate Broadhurst, spa supervisor at ESPACIO Spa Waikiki, who created a simple DIY spa treatment and shared it with us. If you want to make it even more of a moment for yourself, light an essential oil-scented soy or beeswax candle and tuck away a pair of extra fluffy PJ’s to keep you cozy after your DIY spa experience is done. If you can’t get to Hawaii, well, have Hawaii come to you!
STEP ONE: DRY-BRUSHING
Dry brushing is a centuries-old technique that improves circulation and detoxifies the body through lymphatic drainage. It leaves you, and your skin, feeling fresh and vibrant. The first step in dry bushing is all about choosing the right tool. In Hawaii, Broadhurst is able to grow her own loofah! However, if you’re not in tropical heaven at the moment, any dry brush with natural fibers will give you a good result.
Prior to turning on the water for your shower or bath, step onto a mat or into the dry shower and start brushing upward, toward your heart, beginning at the soles of your feet. Continue the motion, up toward your heart, until you reach your neck. From the neck and the shoulders, brush downward.
Kate recommends dry-brushing every other day or twice a week to promote a healthy and happy lymphatic system!
STEP TWO: CUSTOMIZE YOUR BODY SCRUB
To continue the relaxation, a body scrub is the perfect next step. The best part? The majority of the necessary ingredients might already be in your kitchen or pantry!
Here are some great essential oils to consider for each recipe below:
To Relax: patchouli or lavender
To Balance: sweet orange or ylang-ylang
To Uplift: rose geranium and rosewood
The most important note in creating your perfect spa experience, though, is to surround yourself with things that you enjoy: a plant or flowers, a candle, a cup of herbal tea awaiting. From the scents to the ambience of the space, they should reflect your perfect environment, so go for what makes you feel good!
RECIPES:
DIY Fruity Scrub
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sea salt
Carrier oil to mix into a paste
Lemon/Lime zest
A few drops of your favorite essential oil
Looking for a fun and fruity twist? Grab a papaya, guava, mango, etc. and puree the fruit in a food processor. Then, simply add it to the mix!
DIY Invigorating Body Scrub
1/2 cup of Brown Sugar
1/2 cup Coffee Grinds
Carrier oil to mix into a paste
Brown sugar is a natural and gentle exfoliant, while coffee adds caffeine to the skin to improve circulation and invigorate the skin. Together, it creates both an energizing and soothing experience.
To complete your spa, follow these steps with a relaxing hot shower or bath and a high-quality moisturizer. Remember to take time for yourself and enjoy the moment. You deserve it!