Spa is the new buzz word. It conjures up images of swaying palm trees, private waterfalls, fragrant baths and relaxing body massages. Did you know you can create the same ambiance right in your own home with some simple tips and products found in your own kitchen?
First, start by raiding your kitchen pantry, where you will find some easy to find, basic ingredients used in some of the most upscale European spa's. Simple unrefined, brown or baker's sugar can be used to make a fabulous body scrub. Add fresh oils like Olive or Avocado, and extracts like Almond and Vanilla to scent. Gourmet coffee grounds, grated lemon peel, mashed Papaya and dried flower petals of Rose and Pot Marigold from the garden add visual appeal and additional fragrance. The ingredients you add are limited only by your imagination.
Next, create a spa worthy bath or after bath body oil using the oils previously mentioned. If you prefer richer, more exotic oils, find these at your local health food store or gourmet market. Australian Emu oil, Virgin Coconut oil, and Kukui Nut oil are some of the favorites used by spa's. Essential oils are fragrances derived from natural sources, and can be added for aroma therapy benefits. Favorites for scenting include calming Chamomile, French Lavender, uplifting Peppermint and balancing Rose Geranium. Essential oils can be found at health food stores and natural markets. Only a few drops of these precious oils are needed to scent four ounces of bath and body oil.
Lastly, gather a large basket which will hold thick, luxurious bath towels, a large sea sponge and soaps made with natural fresh ingredients like Avocado oil, Olive oil and Coconut oils. Carry this into your private bath with a fresh cup of Chamomile tea and some soothing classical or favorite relaxing music. Light a fragrant candle, toss some rose petals into the warm fragrant waters you have scented with your own beautiful bath oil, and let your cares slide away.
Victoria Sharpe is a writer, photographer, soap maker and artist living in the high mountain desert of New Mexico.She has owned and operated Victoria's Natural Soap, a woman owned company, for 12 years, and enjoys sharing her passion for writing with other artisan's.http://www.victoriasnaturalsoap.com