The art of at-home relaxation is all about how you create the space, says Aurora Spa Retreat founder Lyndall Mitchell. “Spas are generally warm and nurturing environments, and they’re clutter free,” Mitchell says, explaining that eliminating clutter is the best way to start. As for how you set the mood, there is no right or wrong way. “Switching off is personal; it’s very individual as to how everyone does that.” For some, it might be a lit candle, others might light 10, then draw a bath or make a herbal tea. Mitchell offers some more tips to help create a home spa.
Ritual not Routine
Don’t let your ever-expanding beauty cabinet become a source of stress. In our hectic lives, the beauty products we choose to use can offer us a moment of escapism. Instead of treating the steps in your skincare regimen as a routine, try thinking of them as
a ritual and respite from
the day that’s ahead of, or behind, you.
Make a Date”
Mitchell swears by putting things in a diary as much as she can, including morning runs. She explains that by doing so, the steps she takes to nurture her own health and wellbeing are treated like business meetings. “There’s no negotiation involved; there’s no will I, won’t I.” Take the same approach to your at-home spa. Set aside time to focus on yourself
and stick to it – no excuses.
Get Offline
At-home spa time means
it’s time to put all your devices down and get offline. Mitchell, who regularly runs digital detox retreats, explains that the process of disconnecting allows us to reconnect with ourselves. When you do use your devices, think of them as
your servant not your master. “Put a meditation app on, take a little pause and allow your thoughts to settle and your stress levels to reduce. It’s about the small pauses you can take,” Mitchell says.
Little Things Count
Incorporating small rituals into every day can help maximise “me” time and transport your senses to the relaxing and rejuvenating
spa environment. Mitchell suggests placing an essential oil on the floor of your shower. “Each morning when you step into the shower you’ll get that beautiful aroma that will take you back to your last spa appointment.”
At-Home Essentials
Splash Out
La Mer Hydrating Facial ($385 for six) brings a real feel of luxury to the at-home spa. La Mer’s signature marine-derived hydrating ferments conquer dehydration and dryness and leaves skin feeling nourished.
Over the Moon
All spa rituals begin with a good cleanser and Sunday Riley Blue Moon Cleansing Balm ($88) is our pick. The beautiful balm doesn’t just remove impurities, cocoa butter and mimosa flower wax also moisturise the skin
while vanilla and sweet orange essential oils help
to relax the mind.
Buff Stuff
Add a pinch or so of Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains For Face ($82) to water or your favourite cleanser to gently exfoliate your skin. The formula contains Japanese adzuki bean powder and small amounts of plant oil that slough away dry skin and encourage cell regeneration.
Soothe & Smooth
Whipping up the
Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Clay Mask ($69) is half the fun and so simple. Mix one heaped teaspoon with one and a half teaspoons of water to create a soft paste. This deep-cleansing mask whisks away excess sebum and soothes sensitive skin.
Body Work
Jo Malone London has launched a nourishing reformulation of its Cologne Intense Body Crème ($185 each) collection. Skin is left feeling deeply moisturised,
as smooth as silk and of course, divinely scented, thanks to its lush fragrance.
Mind & Body
Take in a deep breath of Aspar Lavender & Patchouli Relaxing Body Oil ($39). Pure essential oils of lavender and patchouli will soothe
and calm as certified organic avocado and jojoba and vitamin E nourish your skin. Take your ritual to the next level by adding a capful or two to your bath.
Happy Feet
A blend of pumice grains and ground apricot seed in Linden Leaves Foot Scrub ($34.99) exfoliate while grapeseed oil, cocoa and shea butter smooth and moisturise dry skin. Invigorating essential oils of sage and lemongrass uplift the senses.
Mane Magic
When recreating the spa
at home don’t neglect your tresses. Original & Mineral Seven Day Miracle Moisture Masque ($40) has been whipped up using body and shine-restoring macadamia seed oil and cold-pressed certified organic Australian argan oil.
Handy Work
Treat your digits to a massage using Living Nature Nourishing Hand Cream ($19). Active manuka honey and larch tree extract in the hydrating formula and keep them satiny smooth.