With Woman’s Day behind us, I’m sure many were pretty ‘bummed out’ by the fact that we’ve been swindled out of a public holiday (the calendar is clearly against us). That said (and the true meaning of the special day not forgotten), we may have lost the perks of a public holiday, but here at PriceCheck, we’re celebrating Woman’s Month!

Not that we need special time allocated to celebrate women, but it does give us that added incentive. What better time to take that much needed – and deserved –  timeout to relax and treat yourself. We’re bringing you all the benefits of a spa day, from the comfort of your home. All you need is a few household products, friends and some optional extras for simple, full body treatments.

Face

Opt for the natural healing powers of avocado and combine it with raw oats and Vitamin E oil. Honey may be a bit sticky, but it has natural anti-bacterial properties that’ll do wonders for your skin, so add some to your mixture for an extra punch.

A simple brown sugar and almond oil scrub is a great exfoliating combo too. You can add some Vitamin E oil or vanilla extract for a fragrant variety. This mixture can also be used to exfoliate your hands, or as a natural exfoliating scrub in the shower.

Eyes

Simply use the trusted cucumber slice method and place over the eyes while lounging back. The cool sensation revitalises tired eyes and removes puffiness. Alternatively, you can also use the age-old teabag method and apply to the eye area. Opt for a good herbal tea like camomile, which contains anti-inflammatory properties that’ll soothe red, tired eyes. Simply place the teabags in hot water for 3-5 minutes and rest them on the eye area when cool enough.

Feet

Whip out that foot spa, or indulge your feet in this creamy lather for a heavenly treat. Mix some warm milk and Epsom salts with some almond oil and peppermint oil for a relaxing, much needed timeout. The combination of the oils and salts is naturally invigorating, while the warm milk soothes and softens dry, tired feet.

Body

It turns out coffee isn’t just the elixir of life; making you nicer and helping you get through your day. It is also great for circulation! For an added treat, rub ground coffee on your thighs and other ‘problem areas’ to help promote circulation and combat that dreaded cellulite. The granules will increase blood flow and circulation, and simultaneously draw water out of your fat cells, shrinking them so they’re less noticeable.

Body mist spritzers are good mini gifts, but also helps keep the spa vibe going. Make your own by filling mist bottles with water and hydrating cucumber slices or mint leaves for a fragrant pick-me-up. And enjoy the leftovers on some ice. Lemon and mint water works wonders as a natural detox, too.

Essentials

  • A serene atmosphere is what you’re after. Think soft music, muted tones, candles, flowers and lots of good energy. Encourage every woman to bring along their own towel and robe. After all, this isn’t a real spa, we’re just pretending, remember?
  • Cucumber, mint or orange added to chilled water is great to set the vibe and keep refreshed. Chai tea, cranberry juice and fruit smoothies could also be a refreshing addition.
  • Heated towels provides a calming effect.
  • Magazines! Whether new or old, a good glossy goes a long way.
  • Snacks. And lots of it. Cut some carrot sticks and prepare some fresh fruit skewers for a healthy treat. Alternatively you could sneak in some carbs and order pizza. It is a fun day after all.
  • Create a ‘nail art station’ where you can give each other manis and pedis- even try your hands at some fun designs.
  • Spread some laughs while doing a massage chain so that everybody gets a chance to distress.
  • And pink drinks! Of course. While this is an optional addition, a few cocktails might just elevate your spa day from cozy to crazy. But nothing too strong, the idea is to relax and detox.

With the newfound tired-busting treatments in tow, all you have to do is make the time- which may serve to be the hardest bit of all, given that the treatments are way easier than you may have thought. Grab your ingredients, invite all the important women in your life and get your spa day in motion. It is Woman’s Month after all!