As a caregiver, you’re probably feeling stressed, and you’re definitely overdue for a day of relaxation. If you want fuss-free relaxation and some quality time with your senior, try turning your home into a DIY spa. Using a few of the ingredients you have tucked away in your kitchen cabinets, you can treat yourself and your loved one to spa-level tranquility at a fraction of the price.
Spa Prep
While you plan your spa day, spend some time collecting ideas on both Pinterest and AZ Spa Girls. Then, save time by preparing everything the night before. Gather items like towels, washcloths, tissues, and socks, and locate a soothing playlist on Pandora. After that, make your scrubs, masks, and smoothers (being careful to refrigerate anything that has the potential to spoil). These recipes will get you started:
Note: All recipes serve one person. Double each recipe to accommodate yourself and your loved one.
Facial Scrub
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp coconut oil
Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a small, clean bowl, and mix until consistent in appearance. Apply to a clean face and neck, and exfoliate by rubbing in a gentle, circular motion. Rinse well.
Moisturizing Face Mask
Note: If you made this mask ahead of time and refrigerated it, heat it in the microwave until it’s lukewarm.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 ripe banana
- 3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
Mash banana in a clean bowl, then add yogurt and honey. Mix until ingredients form a smooth paste. Then apply to a clean face and neck, and let everything sit for 10 minutes. Using tissues, cotton balls, or a soft facecloth, rinse well. Follow up with moisturizer.
Hand Smoother
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Club soda or champagne
Instructions:
Combine sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl, then massage into both hands over a sink. After a few moments, rinse with club soda or champagne for silky smooth skin.
Foot Smoother
Ingredients:
- 1/4 c sea salt or Himalayan salt (in rock form)
- 1 tsp ground sea or Himalayan salt
- 2 tsp coconut oil
- 3 drops peppermint essential oil or extract
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a small microwave-safe bowl, mix well, and heat until warm. Massage into feet with your hands or a pumice stone, then place feet into a bath of warm water. After soaking for approximately 10 minutes, dry feet and cover with socks.
After your day of head-to-toe DIY spa treatments, spend some time in a warm, relaxing tub. For skin that’s extra smooth, add 1/4 cup of baking soda to 2 cups of Epsom salt, and 10 drops of lavender essential oil. Follow up with skin lotion or body butter — then get a good night’s sleep.
Looking to ease caregiver stress? Taking time to pamper yourself can help — and so can some extra support. A medical alert system can bring additional peace of mind to caregivers and their senior loved ones.
