Anitha Bennett
Parenting is challenging and stressful at all times. However, levels of parental stress and anxiety have increased with the pressures of intermittent pandemic lockdowns and work/study from home schedules. After interviews with several wellness experts, we present a spa guide for parents to de-stress, unwind and rejuvenate in the comfort of their homes.
What you need
• Bathtub, big or small
• Essential oil (Lavender is good for relaxation, but you could also try rose, citrus or jasmine)
• Coconut oil
• Aromatic candles
• Soft music
• Aromatic face pack or face pack made of multani mitti or sandalwood
• Rose water
• Body scrub
• Mildly perfumed shampoo and conditioner
• Pumice stone
• Shower gel
• Loofah
• Face cleanser
• Moisturizer
• Cold beverage
• Book/magazine
Set the mood.
Light candles and place them around the bathroom. Play soft instrumental music. Clear your bathroom of clutter. Inform your family members not to disturb you for the next hour.
Get things ready.
Fill tub with warm water. (If you don’t have a bathtub, collapsible, inflatable tubs can be used). Add a few drops of essential oil. Mix the face pack with rose water and place it in a bowl nearby. Keep the scrub ready. Place the shampoo, conditioner and pumice stone in a tray. Start by rubbing coconut oil into your scalp. Use your fingertips to make small circles, covering the entire scalp.
Scrub off.
Next, rub your body with the scrub to exfoliate skin. Relax, soak in, sip your favourite drink and catch up on your reading. After 15 minutes wash off the body scrub using firm, circular movements.
Shampoo hair.
Apply shampoo and massage your head with fingertips before washing off. Apply conditioner.
Feet care.
Scrub off the dead cells on your feet with a pumice stone. Use an old toothbrush to clean toenails. Rub between your toes to dislodge dirt.
Finish off.
Wash off your conditioner thoroughly in warm water and wrap your hair up in a towel. Wrap body with a warm towel as well. Apply the face pack and relax once again with your drink and book. After 20 minutes, wash off your face with warm water. End your spa session by slathering your body with a moisturizer.
Also read: Natural home remedies for children