How to Create Your Own At-Home Spa Experience

Let's face it: who wouldn't the chance to have a day of absolute bliss and relaxation? Set aside an afternoon when the kids are at school and the hubby's at work-a day that you can call your own-and host a spa day for yourself.

Start by creating your own steam treatment for your face by pouring a quart of boiling water into a large bowl, then adding a few drops of lavender oil. Lean over the bowl, placing a towel over your head and the bowl to trap the steam. This spa-style treatment has two major benefits. Not only is the scent of lavender soothing to the nerves but the steam opens up clogged pores, releasing trapped dirt and cleansing your skin.

Next, de-puff swollen eyes by applying a slight pressure with your middle fingers to the inner corners of your eyes for a few seconds. Repeat the movement at the centers of your eyebrows, moving to the outer corners of your eyes.

Draw a steaming, hot bath and add aromatherapy sea salts to the water. Slowly ease into the water and let the tension in your body drift away. The hot water causes blood vessels to dilate, lowering blood pressure and increasing the oxygen flow and nutrients to your muscles.

Throughout your DIY spa activities, sip on a hot beverage like green or chamomile tea. Slowly drinking a warm drink triggers a calming response in the body. Plus, green tea is filled with antioxidants and chamomile is proven to help you feel relaxed and sleepy.

While you're simmering in the tub, practice some reflexology (the act of applying pressure to certain parts of the hands and feet which correspond to different parts of the body in an attempt to alleviate stress). Use one thumb to firmly press on the area between the opposite thumb and forefinger while breathing deeply for two minutes. Switch hands and repeat.

Before leaving the bath, shampoo your hair. Give your scalp a massage by lathering on the shampoo and applying pressure all over your scalp, including your temples, as you cleanse your tresses. This will relieve some of your tension.

Once you've melted away the stress and feel rejuvenated, slip into your comfiest clothes. Throw your favorite fuzzy slippers in the dryer for 10-15 minutes to provide your feet with a warm sensation. Allow yourself the privilege of taking an afternoon nap. Immerse your bedroom with a lavender or chamomile scent. These calming aromas, along with the spa treatment, will have you peacefully slumbering in no time.

Feel like you have too much to do to allow yourself to indulge? One day of sloth won't hurt you. You work too hard to feel guilty. You deserve a day of pampering and decadence, so take advantage of it ASAP!