As the cost-of-living crisis continues to dominate headlines, people are thinking more mindfully about how to spend their money, which can often mean sacrificing on luxury and therefore one’s own wellbeing.
Wanting to spread the message that wellness doesn’t have to be expensive, some beauty experts and spa managers from some of the UK’s leading spas have given their wellbeing tips on how to create an affordable, spa experience at home.
Holly Glynn, Spa Manager at The Spa at Ardencote says “Being close to water is proven to reduce stress and anxiety. We are fortunate enough to have a large lake at our spa with a small island on it which is great for a moments rest and absorbing nature, but if you can’t access a natural body of water, you can still reap the benefits from home. Just the sound of running water can be beneficial to your wellbeing, so when running your next bath, make a conscious effort to lie there and listen to the water run. Bath salts which contain minerals will mimic the natural elements of sea water, so use these when you can for a similar wellbeing boost”
Carly Boothroyd, Operations Manager at Titanic Spa, Huddersfield says “We are big believers in the power of thermal experiences, so use your bathroom as an area where you can experiment with temperature. Utilising the steam from your shower or bath is a great way to extend the wellbeing experience as well as making use of the water. Taking time to breathe in the vapour is a great way to destress, but also the perfect opportunity for your skin to absorb any products you may use. For another layer of indulgence, you could use Rasul mud on the skin to allow the product to deeply penetrate the pores and draw out any impurities, ensuring you’re getting the best at home spa experience possible.”
Kate Lake, Spa Manager at The Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket suggests “Introduce aromatherapy into your bathroom to help heal your mind. As sense of smell is one of the most powerful senses, this can affect our actions and emotions. Depending on what you would like to achieve from your sanctuary e.g. stress reduction, relaxation, mood-boosting, there will be an essential oil to suit. As an area known for its Lavender, we incorporate a lot of locally grown lavender into our treatments here which is ideal for relaxation. Pick up some fresh lavender when you’re next out or invest in some eucalyptus leaves that you can tie around your shower head. The steam from the shower or bath will carry the drift of the aromas to create a natural scent throughout the bathroom and help you reap the benefits.”
Lorela Movileanu, Spa Director at Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa, Keswick suggests: “The trend for cold water swimming has grown significantly during previous lockdowns, particularly on our own doorstep, in the beautiful Lake District. Whilst you may not have a local lake you can swim in, you can still achieve some of the same health benefits from the comfort of your own home. By turning your shower to the coldest setting for the last few minutes of your routine you will wake up the body, invigorate the skin and improve your circulation, which in turn can result in a strengthened immune system and reduction in stress hormones within the body. For best results, try to do these two to three times per week. For the fantastic health benefits, it is well worth feeling the chill!”
Jess Mellors, General Manager at The Spa at the Manor House, East Cheshire suggests “When it comes to your bathroom, make sure that you’re bringing the outside in. Nature has plenty of fantastic benefits to our health from improving air quality to fighting off any lingering bacteria – that’s why our spa garden is based on a classic English Country garden! Studies have also found that house plants can give you a boost of energy! Many people don’t think about putting plants inside the bathroom, but the moist and warm environment is not only perfect for the health of the plant but will also do wonders for your health too. A plant like a fern will thrive in the bathroom”
Penny Weston, Director at Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat and MADE Wellness Centre, Staffordshire suggests “When taking a relaxing bath, it is not just the products we use that matter, but the whole experience. To help soothe the mind further, listen to a relaxing playlist or podcast. This could be anything from meditation, calming music to the latest podcast from your favourite content creator. Having tailored your listening to suit you and your needs, this will ensure the right type of ambience and help you to switch off and enjoy your peaceful sanctuary”
Penny Hamilton, Co-Founder of Westlab and Salt Specialist says “If you want a spa bathing experience then magnesium has an incredible calming effect on the body. It is known to be linked directly to stress, meaning when the body is deficient or low on magnesium, it increases adrenalin levels allowing individuals to feel more anxious or worried. Magnesium is vital in supporting relaxation as it plays an essential role in the production of Serotonin (the happy hormone), the regulation of Melatonin (the sleep hormone) and the reduction of Cortisol (the stress hormone) in the body.”
Lynn Mason, in house nail expert at Mavala says “Its easy to get a salon fresh looking mani from home if you have the right techniques and tools. Here is a really easy 8 step guide on how to perform a professional feeling mani, from maintenance to colour”
“Step 1: Remove your existing polish with Acetone or a Polish Remover
Step 2: Gently file your nails to shape being careful to file in one direction, then buff the nails with a buffer
Step 3: Apply Mavala Cuticle Oil to your cuticles in a soft circular motion and place your hands in a bowl of warm water. Let them rest.
Step 4: Dry your hands. We’d recommend doing this with a warm mitt for extra indulgence! Now that the cuticles are soft, gently roll them back using the Mavala Cuticle Remover.
Step 5: Next, apply the Mavala Lightening Scrub Mask directly to the nails and scrub with a brush. Leave the mask to work its magic by wrapping in a warm towel before rinsing.
Step 6: Massage Mavala Hand Cream in to the palms and tops of your hands. Focus on your pressure points and work down your fingers.
Step 7: Now its time to apply your treatment. If your nails are flaking and weak apply Scientifique K+, if they are brittle apply Mava-Flex and if they are week and bendy apply Mava-Strong.
Step 8: It is time to apply your base coat, followed by your favourite Mavala colour and completed with a layer of topcoat. Mavala Gel Finish is great for a strong and shiny look!”
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