by Charlise Powvalla

Created on: January 09, 2009   Last Updated: January 15, 2009

Life's journey isn't always peaceful. Our feet can become calloused while traversing the stepping stones in the swift rivers of adversity. Our skin becomes dry and rough in our earth's arid social climate, and our muscles strain to carry the daily burdens of work and family life. While it can be difficult to take time away from your responsibilities, preparing for a night out on Valentine's Day, or any special day, may be the perfect excuse to turn your home into a sanctuary for rejuvenating your body, mind, and soul.

Pampering yourself is best begun by creating an atmosphere of peaceful luxuries to delight each of your senses and ease away the stresses of the day. Candles, incense, or oil warmers can be used to begin your sensual journey with relaxing scents such as lavender, vanilla, or jasmine. Soothing music can chase away anxious thought patterns while setting a smooth rhythm for your evening ahead. Turn off unnatural lighting and burn candles to give your eyes a rest, and brew your favorite herbal tea to tantalize your taste buds.

Rejuvenating your body is an amazing way to enhance your inner and outer beauty. Use natural, household products such as course sea salt and massage oil as an exfoliating body scrub. Avocado, egg whites, oatmeal, and honey can be used in a facial mask to moisturize and tone your skin. Afterward, draw a steaming bath with a luxurious twist by dropping in a couple of cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and a few drops of your favorite floral essential oils.

Make sure you start early enough before your night out so that you can pamper yourself without time lines, and allow your mind and soul to receive the full benefit of your royal self-treatment. A few moments after your bath but before your make-up might be an excellent time for meditation or self-reflection. Breathe deeply and slowly. Allow intruding thoughts to appear and organically pass through, and achieve awareness of your muscles relaxing and your body releasing pleasurable endorphins.

The benefits of a "spa night" go far beyond beautifying yourself for your night out. You will also reduce cumulative stress levels, thereby preventing serious health conditions ranging from muscle tension to depression and heart disease. In addition, you will be treating your skin to youthful rejuvenation, and ensuring that your mind is clear and anxiety free in order to let your beautiful personality shine during the romantic evening ahead.

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