What’s your favorite way to pamper yourself?
This is a post I’ve been wanting to do for a while, because my “spa night” routine is very near and dear to my heart, and I think many of you will find you enjoy it as well. I do not follow this routine every night because sometimes I’m too busy, but I try to make some time to do it if I’m feeling stressed out or anxious. I also see a lot of benefits when I incorporate this routine if my skin is breaking out or looking rather dull. After getting home from a couple weeks at college is a perfect time for example, because I’m usually pretty run-down, and craving a relaxation night.
In addition, you can modify these steps by using what you have at home or what is available to you. It certainly doesn’t have to be followed to a T; these are only suggestions. For maximum relaxation, I love to light candles, play relaxing music or listen to an inspiring podcast as I’m doing these steps. Let’s begin.
Step 1: Steam
Ever received a professional facial before? If so, you would know that the esthenitician almost always steams your face for a few minutes before doing extractions. Not only does the steam feel incredible and comforting, but has a specific function. It is important to steam before extracting because it helps open up the pores. Trying to get the gunk out of your face without doing this first will lead to scarring, and damage. I found this at home steam machine off Amazon that is very easy to use, and gives the same effect as getting a real facial. I simply hover my face in front of the nozzle for a few minutes. I try to not touch, pick, or prod at my face to my best ability, but sometimes it’s way too tempting to avoid, so if I ever need to get rid of a pimple, I will always, always steam my face first and I highly recommend this to anyone.
Step 2: Mask time!
After any extractions, it’s time to put on your favorite mask! I have been loving this mask by May Lindstrom skin recently. My all time favorite skincare company is Osmia Organics, and I have done a full review on their products on my blog before, but sometimes I like to try something different, and May Lindstrom products are gorgeous.
Like Osmia, this company adds a nice personalized touch to their shipments, for example, this one came with a lovely note signed from May herself! Small touches like these go a long way for me. This company is on the pricey side, but you really do pay for the quality, craftsmanship and integrity of these beautiful products. This correcting masque is said to heal inflammation, brighten the skin, and even fade spots and prevent breakouts. The mask contains raw cacao, charcoal, soil nutrients and other amazing ingredients. Raw cacao is touted for its vitamin C and magnesium content which can protect the skin, and charcoal is known for pulling out impurities. This mask tingles when it is first put on, and then hardens after a couple of minutes. I also got a few samples from them, such as the Youth Dew and Pendulum serum, and I’ve been trying to only use the tiniest amount of the samples because I don’t want them to run out. Both of these serums are luxurious, and smell fantastic. OPTIONAL TIP: Try adding a hair mask!
My absolute favorite hair mask is by Coco and Eve because it contains no gluten, parabens, or sulfates and works wonders. My hair is more damaged and thin, so I like to do hair masks at least once a week to add some moisture back. This mask has raw virgin coconut, shea butter, and argan oil to condition your hair, repair split ends, combat frizziness, all while making your hair smell delicious. If you don’t want to purchase this hair mask, you can make your own with these ingredients:
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon organic honey (or manuka honey)
Leave on for thirty minutes, and wash regularly with shampoo and conditioner. This mask is very nourishing to your hair and will combat damage from blow-drying, straightening or curling (recipe found here along with nine other ideas).
Step 3: Hop in the bath
There’s not much I love more than taking a warm bubble bath after a long day. 
Bubble baths, particularly those with Epsom salts, have magical healing benefits to your body. They can help relieve pain and muscle cramps, relieve inflammation, and can make your skin super soft. I also like adding a few drops of this Dr. Teals Foaming bath because it has eucalyptus and spearmint essential oils, which smell great and have anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties. Both of these products are cheap as well; the Dr Teals is only about five bucks, and you can pick up huge bags of Epsom Salt anywhere for about the same price. While in the bath, I often read books, listen to podcasts, or catch up on Instagram (not the best habit…but hey, I’m honest). It’s one of those times where I feel truly “zen” and not much can take this peace away from me.
Step 4: Get cozy
After my bath, I hop in the shower for a quick rinse, and then get in the softest clothes I can find. My body feels so clean, and I also find that I’m less stressed or anxious as I was before. My head is more clear, and my heart rate has slowed by this point. This is why doing this routine before going to sleep is an effective way to fall asleep faster and get more restful, quality sleep as well. As someone who struggles with falling asleep due to OCD (I’ll talk about this in a later post) I’ve found in the past that my sleep is much better when I am relaxed before, as opposed to trying to fall asleep with a mind full of racing thoughts. When I’m in my comfy clothes, I’ll make myself a soothing cup of Chamomile tea and curl up in bed with my favorite book. I know, I know it sounds like I’m a grandma, but to be honest, being comfortable and feeling relaxed and safe is one of my favorite feelings in the world, and if it makes me lame, I’m okay with that.
On that note…I hope you all have a relaxing night and remember to treat yourself every now and again because no one ever regrets taking the time to show themselves a bit of extra love.
Let me know what you think!