With spring around the corner, some might say it's the perfect time to head off for the day spa, but "some" also do not have small children. While going to a spa may sound like a foreign concept to the young mother, bringing "The Spa" home is an alternative option. No, it won't be the much needed paradisaical experience one dreams about, in fact, it won't even come close (no lies here). But imagine the memories to be made in spontaneously turning the living space in to a mini-health club! It can be a mother-daughter activity, a mother-son activity, or a whole-family activity (pops included!). Here are some tips to inspire and get one thinking about how to create an At-Home Family Spa Day:
Plan ahead/organize:
- Gather lotions/oils - Grape seed oil is an excellent alternative to chemical filled products and does not leave a greasy residue
- Group hand/foot care accessories together in a small basket (nail clippers, files, polish, foot scrubs)
- Be sure to have enough clean towels for everyone
- Purchase plastic tubs at the dollar store for soaking hands and feet
- Set out robes and/or comfortble clothing
- Choose soft music or a nature sounds cd
- Pull out some candles
- Plan to have fresh flowers out on the table
- Make bath salts: Check out www.spafromscratch.com. Type the words "bath bombs" into the search line for several fantastic homemade recipes that the kids can help with.
- Make each person their own sock heat-pad: Fill tube socks (preferably new ones!) 3/4 of the way with white rice (not minute rice) and toss in a few teaspoons of smell-good spices, such as cloves. Then tie a knot at the top. These can be tossed in the micro-wave for 1-2 minutes and placed on shoulders while soaking feet. *Be sure these are not too hot before distributing to the little ones!
Choose activities (what do they do at a real day spa?):
- Manicures/Pedicures - boys and men need these, too!
- Soak baths
- Cool-whip masks with eye soothing cucumber discs, or search for other homemade facial treatments.
- Massages - as unproductive as it may seem, even toddlers can give mommy or daddy a back rub!
- Exercise - stretching, going for a walk, etc.
Provide healthy snacks/drinks:
- Veggies and dip
- Crackers and Cheese
- Fruit
- Snack mix
- Smoothies
- Lemon Water
Most importantly, this is meant to be an enjoyable time, even for mom! Things will not go exactly as planned or imagined, and that's okay. Resolve to make it a fun, stress-free time (which may mean turning off the phones). If everyone enjoys themselves, make it a regular family activity... perhaps every Friday night? Or even just once a month. Think of ways to change it up. After all, a home-spa is better than no spa, right?
On a side note: If looking for an actual "day spa" in the Portland area, you are truly blessed and the rest of us are green with envy! Here's a list of ones that have recieved good reviews:
www.lamusespa.com, Portland
www.steppingstonesdayspa.com, Portland
www.rejuvenationdayspa.com, Portland
www.spasasse.com, Portland
www.thepointespa.com, Hillsboro
www.havenofrestdayspa.com, Happy Valley
www.willamettewellness.com, West Linn
www.abbadayspa.com, Sherwood
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