by Anna Wildman

Created on: March 30, 2009

With the economy the way it is every one could use a little down time. We could all use a little less stress and a little more pampering. Most of us however can't afford to run over to the nearest day spa; or buy expensive spa products. That's okay; there are many ways to get that spa feeling at home. It can even be done for under 10$.

Firstly set a mood. If you have ever been to a spa you know they have calming music ,soft lighting , and scented candles. Choose a soft instrumental music and light some candles in your favorite scent. This will help calm you while you are giving yourself a spa treatment. Stressing out while doing a spa treatment defeats the purpose of the treatment.

Below you will find a list of home spa treatments that I have used myself for several years. I found them in old books, from friends,on the internet and by playing around with vegetables and herbs I grew in my garden.

Face treatment:

Apple Cucumber Face Mask

1/2 cucumber peeled

1 egg white

1/2 teaspoon each lemon and lime juice

1/2 teaspoon peppermint leaves (or spearmint)

Mix the ingredients in a food processor or blender. Spread a thin layer over your face and neck avoiding your eyes. Let it sit for 15-20 mins. Remove with a warm washcloth. The peppermint will tighten your skin and the apple and cucumber will moisturize it. This mask smells delicious and leaves your face glowing.

Moisturising Chocolate Facial Mask:

1/3 cup cocoa powder

3 Tbsp. Heavy cream

2 tsp. Cottage cheese

1/4 cup of honey

3 tsp of oatmeal

Mix ingredients in a blender. Spread mask on face and neck and even hands if so desired. Leave for 10 minutes then remove with a warm washcloth. Be prepared for a strong chocolate cake craving after using this mask.

Dry Skin and Sunburn Frozen facial:

1 egg

1/2 cup coconut oil softened (but not hot)

1 Tbsp honey ( I like lavender honey for the smell)

Beat the egg in a small bowl then slowly add the coconut oil and honey.Continue to mix until it reaches the consistency of mayonaise. Take an empty toilet paper roll and stand it on end in an empty bowl. Spoon the mixture into the roll. Place the bowl with the roll in the freezer over night. Use by removing a small amount of the roll and spreading on your face and neck. Leave on for 10 minutes. Refreeze remainder for later. This works wonderful for sunburns as well as dry skin. It feels heavenly on a hot summer day.

Oh My Aching Feet:

1 can crushed pineapple

1 cup basil leaves

1 cup peppermint leaves

2 drops peppermint essential oil

Combine all ingredients

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