Despite our laid-back reputation, more Australians are now suffering the effects of stress than ever before. And even though they have the world at their fingertips, millennials have been described as the ‘most anxious generation in history’.

With hectic schedules, financial obligations and busy social calendars to attend to, it is vital that we find time to unwind. But while retreating to a luxury spa might be out of reach, 30 minutes in the tub is totally attainable.

Put your best face first

If the term ‘day spa’ evokes any image, it’s one of a robe, head towel and facemask! Whether you’re in the tub or chilling in your favourite spot, applying a face or sheet mask can be a great way to tackle troublesome skin. When choosing a facemask, look at its active ingredients, consider its texture and, most importantly, go for one that addresses your personal skin concerns.

We recommend

  1. DNA Renewal Restoring Mask, $89
  2. Cosmedix Detox Activated Charcoal Mask, $84.70
  3. Sisley Eye Contour Mask, $160
  4. TEOXANE RHA hydrogel mask, $110
  5. Aspect Gold Hydrating Mask, $59
  6. Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque, $75.50
  7. Medik8 Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Mask, $89
  8. mesoestetic hydra-vital face mask, $78
  9. Image Skincare I MASK Biomolecular Sheet Mask, $20
  10. June Jacobs Cranberry Pomegranate Moisture Masque, $87
  11. Ella Baché Intensive Extreme Regeneration Mask, $78
  12. Synergie Skin Detox Antiox, $69
  13. Pure Elements Lavender Softening Mask, $33.50
  14. Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask, $80

Be body beautiful

Baths don’t have to be boring! Use your soakage time to get smoother skin with a grainy scrub or to detoxify the body with luxury salts. Hair masks are another great way of boosting your appearance while you relax. After your bath, wrap yourself in a warm towel before generously applying your favourite lotion or oil. Heaven.

We recommend 

  1. Frank Body Cacao Coffee Scrub, $18.95
  2. Dr Teal’s Restore & Replenish with Pink Himalayan, $19.99
  3. This Works Deep Sleep Bath Soak, $55
  4. Arbonne Rescue & Renew Detox Bath Soak, $38
  5. Salt by Hendrix Bath to Body Oil in Mandarin + Camellia, $39.95
  6. MOR Marshmallow Body Cream, $39.95
  7. ATUA LoobyLou Tahiti Bath Salts, $29.95
  8. Pure Fiji Coconut Sugar Rub Coconut Lime Blossom, $49.95

Breathe easy

No spa day is complete without some relaxing scents. While essential oil diffusers are rising in popularity, lighting a candle remains an easy way of bringing atmosphere to a room.

We recommend

  1. MOR Emporium Classics Blood Orange Fragrant Candle $49.95
  2. Sunescape Triple Scented Soy Blend Candle in Tahitian Twist, $36
  3. Palm Beach Collection Vintage Gardenia Standard Soy Candle, $39.95
  4. Jo Malone London Velvet Rose & Oud Home Candle, $120
  5. Bordeaux Triple Scented Soy Candle in Bali, $35
  6. Wilds Soy Candle in Sea Salt + Lily, $29.95

Switching off

Taking time out may be necessary, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. If you find unwinding difficult, try these calming activities to keep your mind in the now.

  1. Start that book you’ve been meaning to read or get lost in an old fave. Need a rec? Try Melissa Ambrosini’s Open Wide, $29.99.
  2. Pop on a chill Spotify playlist or a guided meditation.
  3. Sip on your favourite herbal tea. We love Tea Tonic’s Peppermint, $8.95.
  4. Get creative with an adult colouring book.
  5. Recognise the good in your life by filling a page in your gratitude journal.

 

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR