Stop the Stress: 15 Real People Share Their Go-To Relaxation Methods

Read article : Stop the Stress: 15 Real People Share Their Go-To Relaxation Methods

At the end of a long, stressful day, what do you most look forward to? Everyone has a different way of unwinding—for some people it's plopping down on the couch to watch their favorite show on Netflix, for others, it's going to the gym or taking a long hot shower. There's pretty much no limit to how you can relax and de-stress.

We asked people to tell us their favorite ways to relax, so if you don't have a go-to self-care method, one of these ideas is sure to inspire you.

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App-Guided Meditation:

"There are so many options on relaxing that I go to—yoga with my favorite instructors at Equinox (followed by a sauna session), booking an appointment at Drybar, sipping coffee at Kahve in Hell's Kitchen...but my absolutely favorite is meditation! My coworker turned me on to it with the app Insight Timer, and it is absolutely the best thing. After only a few weeks, I feel lighter, more productive, and dare I say happier! It REALLY works—I recommend guided mediation if you're a newbie, but any kind of meditation is good I think."

— Antonia in Manhattan, NY

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Crocheting and Knitting:

"I've always crocheted, and learned to knit several years ago. It's how I unwind and release stress and tension built up during the day. It's a sort of meditation for me....I block out the world and concentrate on counting stitches and the movement of my hands. A lot of people are still alive because I crochet and knit."

— Christine in Orange, CA

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Watching Weird YouTube Videos:

"Lately I've been totally obsessed with watching people cut open squishy toys on Youtube—that and the people who make slime. It's so relaxing! Or people who make miniature sized foods."

—Abby in Camden, ME

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Cooking a Grandparent-Approved Dinner:

"A few years ago I found myself in a food dessert in Omaha—there were no real grocery stores anywhere near, so putting together dinner became incredibly stressful. I have since moved back to my home city of Minneapolis, where there are many great grocery stores very close, and as a result the act of making dinner has become weirdly soothing to me after work. I've especially been exploring recipes from Eastern Europe—where my grandparents came from—so making dinner has become a little adventure, in that I am sort of traveling through time, to my grandparents dinner tables, and space, to Russia or Belarus or Ukraine. It's a great way to take my mind off the day of work and get ready to settle in for the evening."

— Max in Minneapolis, MN

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Music, Coloring Books and Phone Calls:

I've had Fibromyalgia since I was 16, so my process of unwinding/relaxing is crucial—but it also varies each day. What I do: Listen to my favorite musicians that either calm me or just make me happy (i.e. The Lumineers, Sam Cooke, Mumford & Sons, Jack Johnson, etc.). Adult coloring books have recently become one of my favorite ways to unwind after a busy day—I just lay on my bed and get to coloring and after an hour or so I actually feel more relaxed and less stressed after a hectic work day.

I'll also go for a walk—after 7 or 8pm, when it gets a bit more quiet and less busy outside my building. I just put my headphones in and take a casual walk around the block—or a few blocks—and sometimes that's all I need to unwind. Or, I'll take a long shower with music playing on my speakers—sometimes the best way to relax is a nice hot shower and (badly) singing along to my favorite songs. On really bad days I like to give my boyfriend and/or my parents a call. Hearing their voices and positive words after an especially trying day works wonders for me and distracts me from whatever was stressing me out earlier in the day."

— Lisa in Manhattan, NY

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A Playlist and a Hoverboard:

"After an especially long day I like to grab my hoverboard (which I have actually never taken outside) and roam around my home with a specialized playlist I entitled, 'Entrance Music.' It's a fun way to unwind, and whenever I have company over it turns into something pretty entertaining and fun."

—CJin Los Angeles, CA

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Walking in the Park:

"Long walks usually work for me, especially near water or in a park. Prospect Park is great for this."

—Aura in Brooklyn, NY

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Going for a Swim:

"Almost every evening, I head to my health club and unwind by swimming laps and doing aqua-calisthenics in the swimming pool, followed by a relaxing hot soak in the jacuzzi. Swimming is great exercise and also a bit of a social gathering as I tend to see the same 'gym friends' each day, and we catch up on our lives in the hot tub as the jets are massaging our tense muscles. Afterwards, I may go into the steam room or sauna and indulge in a bit of beauty treatments—facials, applying hair conditioner, exfoliation and lots of moisturizer. I leave rejuvenated and glowing!

— Samuella in Manhattan, NY

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Taking a Hot Bath:

"Taking a nice long hot bath in a dark room with candles is by far the best way I personal relax. A bath is so important for my mental health that when apartment searching it is pretty much my only requirement. Besides the benefits of muscle relaxation and scented candles, I believe a bath is extra helpful since it requires me to unplug from all electronics and actually take some 'me' time."

— Brittany in Miami, FL

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Enjoying the View:

"I actually call it Sonia time. I turn off the tv and look out the window (I have a great view) and take in deep breaths and exhale while sitting there and staring out. Sometimes there maybe wine. Sometimes soft spa music. It makes me feel like I'm away somewhere else. I just sit and look. I'm on the 32nd floor and have a lake view on one side and a city view on the other. If I'm looking out at the city I'm enjoying that I'm not busy compared to those people on their way somewhere—for the water side it's just pure calm."

— Sonia in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

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Going Window Shopping:

"I find time to relax by window shopping at local antiques and thrift stores. It is retail therapy without the costs. The shops are a few blocks from my home office so I take about an hour shop and stroll to get away from my computer to recharge. Not mention I get to burn a few calories and catch up with my neighbors."

— Michiel in Walterboro, SC

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Going for a Drive:

"Personally, I like to take a long drive, with no objective other than to see new things and listen to music. Otherwise, a glass of wine and my best friend are basically the antidote to any stressful day."

— Brianna in Lancaster, PA

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Practicing Tai Chi:

"I am a big fan of Tai Chi, but I also do water aerobics, massage, acupuncture, knitting, reading, hanging out with friends, and watching TV to de-stress. I started learning Tai Chi about 12 years ago and have gotten progressively addicted over the years. I now know the choreography of 2 different forms and I absolutely love it. It is a way to both relax and focus. I even guest teach when the regular backup cannot be there. I have met great people, it has helped my balance, improved my bone density and helped calm my mind. I just love it."

— Paige in Cambridge, MA

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Studying Ballet:

"I'm an amateur ballet dancer. I danced in my youth and took it up again despite having limited time due to having a career and family. Every week I have a private dance lesson with a teacher who is devoted to my goal to improve my technique. I get a wonderful workout, I engage in creative expression, and I leave every class feeling physically and mentally recharged."

— Ebonee in Washington, D.C.

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Playing Video Games:

"Putting in so many hours as an entrepreneur, you can bet relaxation is hard to come by. However, one of the things I do to try and calm myself is play video games. Whether it's a game on my PS4 or a game on my iPhone, I try to take a couple breaks throughout the day to turn my brain off and play video games. It helps me escape temporarily from the pressures of the day."

—Chris in Houston, TX

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Now it's your turn: What's your favorite way to unwind?

10 Affordable Ideas That Will Turn Your Small Bathroom Into A Spa

Read article : 10 Affordable Ideas That Will Turn Your Small Bathroom Into A Spa

After a long day at work, there’s nothing better for your body and mind than a spa visit. However, as the cold weather creeps in, most would rather skip the pricey trip and just stay warm at home. Given that the gloomy winter weather can snap your energy and make you feel depressed, you need a soothing sanctuary in your own home.

So, why not turn your bathroom into an at-home spa? Like most spa services, your bathroom offers a private space where you can take a relaxing shower or warm bath to de-stress. All it takes is a few more elements to evoke the spa-like atmosphere. In this article, I'll show you how to enhance all five senses by recreating the ultimate spa experience right in your small bathroom.

If you want some professional help, we can connect you with bathroom remodeling pros in your area ready for your spa project.

Sight

The visual appeal of your bathroom is the key element for setting a spa-like vibe. Most spas tend to embrace the “less is more” philosophy, as a minimalist style can help open up a room, giving the space a serene and restful feel.

To help you achieve the similar “clean and comforting” spa look in your small bathroom, here are several tips:  

Paint Your Walls with An Earthy Palette

Nature-inspired colors, such as brown, gray and green, can give your bathroom an organic feel along with a calming effect. Nevertheless, if you have a rather small bathroom, opt for a lighter and more neutral color scheme. Beige, light gray and pale green, for example, can lend a soothing sense, as well as a spacious feel to your small bathroom.  

Install Dimming Bathroom Lights

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If you prefer a late night, romantic bath before bed, consider installing recessed ceiling lights or wall scones that come with dimmer controls. With the help of a dimmer, you can soften your lighting and get the spa-like feel when you need a soothing soak in the tub.  

Installing dimmer controls involves complex circuits or electrical wiring issues. As a result, I highly recommend leaving such work to a professional electrician. According to our database, the national average price to hire a local electrician is $293.

Create A Warm Feeling with Faux Wood Tiles

Although wood flooring can surely evoke the feeling of peace and warmth, it’s never an ideal material for damp areas. Fortunately, thanks to today's technology, homeowners now have another viable alternative. That is, faux wood tile. Faux wood tile is indeed ceramic or porcelain tile that imitates the natural textures of wood. It not only has a higher resistance to water, but also comes in a variety of patterns that can match any spa bathroom décor.

Clear Toiletry Clutter 

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Clutter usually gives us stress. That’s why spas always keep their toiletries hidden and in order. However, storage space is usually a serious issue in small bathrooms. Thus, when it comes to hiding all toiletries, most will get frustrated.

Well, it’s time to get rid of those old and expired toiletries you won’t ever use. By doing so, you should be able to free up a significant amount of cabinet space.

Still need to borrow some counter space for your go-to toiletries, such as cotton balls and Q-tips? To avoid visual clutter in your bathroom, try organizing these items in clear glass jars. Believe it or not, jarred toiletries will look just like a part of your décor.

Touch

You may not be able to afford expansive hydrotherapy facilities on par with your favorite spas, but you can absolutely give yourself that spa touch with these affordable bath amenities:

Pamper Yourself with A Small, Deep Soaking Tub

Just because you live with a tiny bathroom, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a relaxing soak in the tub. Bath manufacturers are offering a wide array of scaled-down tubs that are no longer than five feet, but deep enough to soak.

Looking to create an exotic Zen style bathroom? You can’t go wrong with the traditional Japanese soaking tub. Compared to other small tubs, Japanese tubs are much deeper, allowing you to submerge your entire body from the neck down. Better yet, most of them even come with built-in seats, so you can sit comfortably and safely while enjoying the hot bath.

Sound like a good addition to your spa-like bathroom? Don’t forget to ask your local contractors for free installation estimates.   

A Massage Shower Head is A Must-Have

Many homeowners assume a soaking tub is a must-have item in a spa-like bathroom. Yet, chances are that you only use it occasionally, not to mention it may make your small bathroom feel crowded. A massage shower head, on the other hand, won’t take up any extra square footage. Additionally, you’ll definitely use it everyday.

Of course, it would be awesome if you could install both products in your bathroom. However, if you do have budget and space concerns, here's my advice. Sacrifice your tub for an upgraded shower along with a fancier massage showerhead. The spa-like shower will surely satisfy your relaxation needs. 

Warm Up With Heated Towels

No one would like to wrap up a nice, healing hot bath or shower with cold towels, especially during the winter. To retain heat within your body, there’s no better way than indulging yourself in comfy, warm towels after a long session of hot water.

That’s why towel warmers are becoming a popular addition in recent bathroom remodels. You can enjoy the cozy warmth within reach by installing a towel-warming drawer in your vanity. If you want to dry your towels at the same time, towel-warming bars will be a better and cheaper option. Plus, its wall-mounted design can save more space!

Smell

Your rejuvenation journey can’t be completed without aromatherapy, since scents are famous for boosting one’s health and mood. For instance, the easiest and fastest way to wake our brains up in the morning is showering with peppermint-scented soap. Need a good night’s sleep? Lavender and jasmine lotions will surely come in handy.

Except for body care products, the addition of scented candles or old diffusers can also enhance your sensual experience.

While Candles Can Add Some Ambience, Oil Diffuser Provides Safety

Everyone, particularly ladies, enjoys unwinding in the tub surrounded by burning candles. Why? In addition to lovely smells, the flame of fragrant candles can add a warm ambience to your bathroom, making the space feel romantic. However, for forgetful homeowners, oil diffusers will be a better and safer choice. 

Sound

Let’s face it. Taking a long soak in the tub can be somewhat boring. You might see some of your friends mount TVs in their bathrooms. Well, before you copy that idea for your spa-like bathroom, think twice. It’s true that a bathroom TV will keep you entertained. But, does it help you keep a tranquil mind? Probably not.

Have Some Calm Music For Your Bath Meditation

You can create a meditation playlist on your phone and play it through a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. With such a calming backdrop, you’ll take a relaxing soak as long as you can.

Taste

The last sense you should bring into your at-home spa retreat is taste.

Yes, taste.

Of course, I’m not telling you to have a taste of your bathroom; I’m implying that you should take your bath experience to the next level with a glass of wine or champagne.

Use A Tub Tray to Hold A Glass of Wine, Champagne…

Don’t assume drinking a glass of wine while bathing will make you sound like an alcoholic. In fact, this idea has been in vogue for a while. If you take a trip to your local home improvement store, you’ll find there are different types of tub trays available on the market. And almost all of them come with a wine holder design.

Conclusion

Getting the benefits of a spa treatment in your own home is not as hard as you think. With just a few bathroom renovations and additions, you can immediately turn your bathroom into a private oasis, even if it’s short on space.

Is your small bathroom a spa sanctuary? Tell us about it in the comments section. We love seeing successful remodeling examples from our fans.

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Showers - Shower Spa for Your Master Bath

Read article : Showers - Shower Spa for Your Master Bath

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Are you looking for a way to reinvent the showers in your home? A new shower spa for your master bath is a great way to have the ultimate shower experience. Most people really love to take their nice long hot showers, and so do you. So, why not do something nice for yourself and indulge in a shower spa for your master bath today.

So what is so special about a shower spa anyway? Well, for some people a shower is just a means for getting clean, but others find the experience a way to unfold from a long hard day. There are even some people that try to take more than one shower a day because they enjoy the way it makes them feel. These are the people that you have to remind about water conservation. For these people, their showers are an integral part of their day and a shower spa is the perfect solution for them. A quality shower spa will provide many streams of water that will pulsate over your entire body. They usually feature an overhead shower canopy of some sort where a gentle flow of water can engulf you with pure bliss. Furthermore, a great shower spa will feature a handheld shower head that will allow you to get to any place on your body that needs extra attention. Here are a couple of shower spas made by Pulse.

Shower Spa: 1013 Kihei Shower System

This shower spa is a pre-plumbed Kihei Anodized Aluminum Shower System that can replace an existing shower arm and head, so there is no re-modeling expense. It can be installed in about 30 minutes. This shower spa can transform any shower with it's sleek design, built in mirror, and glass shelf. It features a relaxing rain shower head that sends a cascading gentle stream of water over your entire body, as well as six invigorating two function multi-directional water jets, a multi-function hand held, and a tub spout. The shower spa panel offer many options such as a mirror for the men who like to shave in the shower, the hand held custom shower head that is perfect for the ladies to use while shaving their legs, and the glass shelf that holds the shower gel and shampoo. Getting this shower spa for your master bath will update your room and enhance your shower experience. After installing the 1013 Kihei, you just might catch yourself taking a couple of showers a day instead of one.

Shower Spa: 1016 Mojave Hand Hammered Copper Shower System

This shower spa is the granddaddy of them all. If you want your master bath to scream luxury, then this is the shower spa for you. This shower spa is an impressive elegant piece that adds a statement about your taste in refined luxury. The 1016 Mojave Hand Hammered Copper Shower Systemas well as the 1013 Kihei Shower System command a five star rating in customer satisfaction. This shower spa features an authentic hand hammered copper panel with all brass components which are in a oil rubbed bronze finish. This shower spa has a 6 inch rain shower head that is also constructed of brass as well as a hand held shower wand for versatility. It also has 4 dual head brass constructed body sprays with rub clean and anti-scald technology built in. It is a southwest inspired shower spa with a modern day expectation. This shower spa for your master bath will add to the value and beauty of your home.

When purchasing a shower spa you should research all options and styles available. This will enable you to pick out the very best shower system to suite your needs. Purchasing a unique shower spa will add value and bring beauty to your master bath. There are many models and styles to choose from to fit your décor. Enhance your shower experience today with a new shower spa that fits your budget.

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H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel Review

Read article : H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel Review

Skin type: Oil & sensitive face but dry body skin

Hello beauties!

I am very choosy about shower gels. It already feels hot in Kolkata, and it is the time to try a summer-perfect shower gel. As I prefer good smelling shower gels, I picked this H2O+ Raspberry Guava Bath Gel. This one won my heart easily with its lovely fragrance.

Product Description:
Gentle cleansing formula that is infused with hints of luscious berry and tropical guava Vitamin E conditioning capsules that help moisturize, repair and protect skin from environmental damage. The natural fruit enzymes revitalize skin and promote cellular renewal.

Price:
MRP is INR 700 for 250ml but I got it at a discounted price

My Experience with H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel:

I know it’s stupid, but I want my shower gels to have good packaging. This one comes in a lovely, cute red and pink large tube with a clear white cap. The tube is quite big for it contains 250ml of product. This is quite heavy to carry. Otherwise, the packaging is totally leakage proof and nice. The MRP of this product is a little high, but it is always available on discounts. So, it is worth a buy for me.

Once you open the cap, you can smell a strong fragrance of berries. It’s an attractive fragrance, but can be a little overpowering for some people. I am a fan of this kind of scents. This smell makes my day energetic and beautiful. It smells extremely beautiful during application and it also stays on for long on me. If you want a shower gel that smells good, this one is for you.

The shower gel has a silky, medium-creamy consistency. It looks white creamy. It is not runny, which makes it easy to use, and the product doesn’t get wasted too. I need a small amount of product to lather nicely. One tube lasts really long. It lathers perfectly which I really like about my shower gel. This H2O+ shower gel works nice as a body cleanser. It cleanses my body nicely and deeply removes all the dirt from body.

As I sweat a lot, I need a deep cleansing body wash, and it works just perfectly on me. It makes my skin soft and nourished. It is a good skin conditioner. It never makes my skin dry and it suits my dry skin well. I always use a moisturizer after shower, but even if I forget to use a moisturizer, my skin doesn’t feel dry. It makes my skin smooth and healthy. But it feels slippery after wash which might irritate some people.

After using this, my skin feels smooth, soft and silky. The softness stays on for long also. I have dry skin on my body, this wash provides a healthy glow to my body. It doesn’t make me feel sweaty or greasy after shower. This is a great shower gel for summers, and is meant for all skin types. I am just addicted to this gel and to its scent.

Pros of H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel:

• Cute, leakage-proof packaging.
• Smells beautifully of berries, and the scent stays for long
• Glides easily on skin.
• Lathers perfectly.
• One tube lasts long.
• Cleanses all the dirt from the body and makes skin fresh.
• Provides a soft, moisturized and smooth body.
• Softness stays on for long.
• Suitable for all skin types.
• Provides a healthy glow.
• Perfect for summer.
• Doesn’t contain paraben.

Cons of H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel:

• Quite heavy to carry.
• Expensive for some.
• Hard to rinse.
• Not everyone might like this strong fragrance.

IMBB Rating:
4.5/5

Would I Repurchase/Recommend H2O+ Raspberry Guava Shower and Bath Gel?
Of course I will repurchase this shower gel. Give it a try, I am sure you will fall in love with this.

H2O Sweet Berry Shower and Bath Gel
H2O Blushing Orange Shower & Bath Gel
H2O Plus Natural Spring Shower and Bath Gel
H2O+ Night Oasis Overnight Eye Complex
H2O+ Spa Sea Salt Hydrating Body Lotion
Maybelline Baby Lips Candy Wow Raspberry
The Body Shop Early Harvest Raspberry Body Butter
Freeman Body Salt Scrub Guava
DIY Guava Face Pack for Instantly Fresh and Glowing Skin

These bathing products will make your soak plenty of fun and bring the spa to you at home

Read article : These bathing products will make your soak plenty of fun and bring the spa to you at home

If you’ve made the commitment to take a bath, you might be contemplating products that will transform your soak, mimicking the luxurious atmosphere of a spa or the meditative possibilities of a sauna. Or perhaps you're nostalgic for the fragrances and bubbles associated with childhood. Here are few suggestions.

Did somebody say, “Swedish spa”? Open a jar of L:A Bruket No. 065 Bath Salt (Mint) and don't be surprised if you start thinking about the ocean — and seaweed — all fairly appropriate considering the line is based in Sweden, a country known for its saunas, massages and embrace of wellness. L:A Bruket No. 065 Bath Salt (Mint), $35, sportique.com.

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Why you should pass on jumping in the shower and instead take a nice, hot soak in a tub »

The tonic line is part of the Clarins family, and one product in particular —  the Tonic Body Treatment Oil — has inspired some beauty bloggers to write about its usefulness in preventing “the appearance of stretch marks.” One thing we can say with certainty? Its fragrance is phenomenal. Tonic Body Treatment Oil, $60, sephora.com and clarinsusa.com; Tonic Daily Polisher, $41, clarinsusa.com; Tonic Bath & Shower Concentrate, $29, clarinsusa.com.

Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics offers a bath box that might inspire memories of grade-school reports on the planets and shooting stars. The Astronomical wrapped gift of bath bombs includes an Intergalactic Bath Bomb, Twilight Bath Bomb, Big Bang Bubble Bar, Ickle Baby Bot Bath Bomb and the Experimenter Bath Bomb. Let the space exploration begin. Astronomical wrapped gift, $39.95, lushusa.com.

If you haven't experienced a bubble bath since you were, say, 6, Library of Flowers might lure you into the tub with the Forest Bubble Bath, although its hints of white sage, Arctic moss and oak bark are nothing like the bubble gum or grape fragrances you might associate with bubble baths of yore. Library of Flowers’ the Forest Bubble Bath, $36, libraryofflowers.com.

Forest Bubble Bath, Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil and Tonic Daily Polisher." class="trb_em_ic_img" title="Fresh's Sake Bath, Library of Flowers’ the Forest Bubble Bath, Clarins Tonic Body Treatment Oil and Tonic Daily Polisher." src="src" />

Sometimes a long soak requires breakfast foods. Barr-Co. Bath Original Scent Bath Soak, produced by St. Louis-based K. Hall Designs, has an ingredient list that includes oatmeal, vanilla and milk. (The only thing missing is, perhaps, a cup of Lucky Charms.)  Barr-Co. Bath Original Scent Bath Soak, $32, Khalldesigns.com and anthropologie.com.

For many of us, the post-bath ritual includes lotion. Earth Tu Face, a San Francisco-based company that understands what “made in California” is all about (labels include ingredients and phrases such as “GMO free” and “cruelty free”), offers botanicals to ease dry skin. Rosemary + Salt Lotion, $38, luckyscent.com and earthtuface.com; Jasmine Blossom Lotion, $58, earthtuface.com and otherwild.com.

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Sake is an ingredient used in various soaking products and D.I.Y. formulas, touted for its detoxifying properties. Was sake used in beauty rituals observed by Japanese geisha? Perhaps, but at the very least, 21st century users can count on a fragrant experience. Fresh's Sake Bath is made with ginger root, radish root and peach fruit extracts — in addition to sake. Fresh Sake Bath, $49 and $82, fresh.com.

image@latimes.com

A previous version of this story said Earth Tu Face is based in San Francisco. The company is based in Oakland.

The Most Cinematic Moment You Can Have at Home

Read article : The Most Cinematic Moment You Can Have at Home

Take a break, take a bath, and take a breath. Your body and your soul will thank you. And if you would like more advice, read on.

It is Feb. 18 and I just had my first bath of 2015. I dream about baths usually in the late evenings when my head finally hits the pillow and I think about how nice a bath would be but I am too tired to take one. Tonight I was reminded of the power of baths.

Baths have been considered water therapy since the ancient times. Clearly Cleopatra and the Romans knew something. But why a bath? It may not be as efficient in terms of cleaning as compared to showers. Baths use up a lot of water and take time -- both of these resources are precious. Yet a bath is a moment of pure pleasure, of wellness, and as Ramona Emerson said in a recent issue of Allure Magazine, "A bath is cinematic in a way that few household activities are."

To me, there are three parts to an amazing bath.

1. The Ritual aspect of baths: A bath is alone time (at least the baths I am talking about are). It is an opportunity to enjoy relaxing music or silence, to reconnect with one's body and one's breath.

2. The Therapeutic aspect of baths: While water is therapeutic on its own, by creating this feeling of weightlessness for the human body, products will enhance these beneficial properties. Whether detoxifying, relaxing, or invigorating, salts, oils and other substances can transform a bath into medicine.

3. The Sanctuary aspect of baths: With just a few candles and some fresh flowers, a simple bathroom can become a magical area. The environment is as important as the act of bathing.

Tips for an amazing bath:

From the dermatologist, Dr. Luigi L. Polla:

To avoid having the hot water dry your skin out, avoid soapy gels and bubbles. Instead, use oil-based products (Aromatherapy Associates, Clarins), and use more than your instincts tell you to. Milk bath products (Weleda) and herbal bath soaks (Kneipp) are also ideal. Epsom salts are an oldie and goodie -- a true classic to alleviate pain, swelling, and inflammation. Make sure to moisturize immediately upon getting out of the bath, when your skin is still moist (especially if you have been in the bath long enough to get prune-y skin).

From the fish, Dr. Barbara Polla:

Lit candles and a window in the bathroom, that opens on to let in the sound of the wind rustling the leaves of the trees is the essence of luxury. For those of use without a window in our bathroom, an iPod, perhaps playing the sounds of nature, specifically the evening wind rustling the leaves of trees, can do the trick.

A great bathrobe is essential to prolong the luxurious, warm feeling of the bath. I loved my full-length deep blue velvet Christian Dior robe, which made me feel regal (my daughter loved it so much it now lives with her).

Soak Yourself in a Deep Bathtub and Experience Pure Relaxing Bliss

Read article : Soak Yourself in a Deep Bathtub and Experience Pure Relaxing Bliss

Who wouldn't like to loosen up in a cozy bathtub and beat all the weariness that pulls one down at the end of the day, or simply to rejuvenate oneself over the weekend, or just to have a fresh start to a tiring day? How about having a deep bathtub to bathe in? Wouldn't that be exciting and refreshing?

Deep tubs are popular because they allow the whole body to soak and relax, while their older counterparts did not offer this benefit. This is one of the most important features of deep bathtubs. Along with providing the much-desired comfort, these bathtubs are user-friendly with many comforting features and come in numerous varieties.

Features of Deep Bathtubs

As the name suggests, deep bathtubs are deeper than the normal ones and are meant for the sheer purpose of soaking the whole body. They are said to have been derived from garden bathtubs that used to be placed in the gardens of the rich and the famous, somewhere during 18th century.

The most prominent feature of a deep bathtub is that they do not relax only the lower parts and limbs of the body, but enable complete relaxation of the whole body, even when a person is in a sitting position, reading or simply sipping on a glass of wine! This feature makes them unique and appealing to absolutely anyone and everyone. There are some wider designs that accommodate two people at a time for a couple to have a romantic bath.

Deep bathtubs also have a hot tub feature that provides greater relaxation to the body. So bathing in these can prove to be a good option for people suffering from joint pain or muscle pain. These bathtubs are also available with the provision of chromatherapy, which allows relaxation with the help of different colors, which is a huge fascination among buyers today.

Types of Deep Bathtubs

There is a wide variety when it comes to the designs and styles. Deep bathtubs can be classified as long and extra deep. Long bathtubs require the person to lie down in the tub, while extra deep bathtubs can allow a person to bathe in the sitting position. They also come in two other varieties, namely hot deep bathtubs and deep bathtub shower combos. Hot deep bathtubs are equipped with electric or gas heating systems, and can thus provide hot water. Deep bathtub shower combos are bathing tubs with shower attachments.

If you visit any home improvement store, you will realize that you have ample choice when it comes to deep bathtubs. Some of the varieties are, garden deep bathtubs (as explained earlier), Roman tubs (wherein one needs to step down to bathe), Japanese tubs (they are so deep that one can soak in water up to the neck while in the sitting position), and Greek tubs (excellent choice for decorating a small bathroom as they are smaller). One of the other popular and fashionable variety is the clawfoot bathtub. This is a deep bathtub with a rolling rim mounted on claw feet, which give a very elegant look to your bathroom.

So in case you are thinking about bathroom remodeling, why not bring home a nice and cozy deep bathtub to treat yourself royally while bathing? There are many types that are economical and easy to install and repair. So what are you waiting for? Bring home your favorite tub and redefine your entire bathing experience!

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Relax and Dine at The Pier First Class Lounge in Hong Kong

Read article : Relax and Dine at The Pier First Class Lounge in Hong Kong

Prior to this, I had made a review of Cathay Pacific’s excellent new First Class lounge called ‘The Pier’ in its main hub of Hong Kong. However that lounge review was done in conjuction with the other First Class lounge ‘The Wing’. This review will concentrate on ‘The Pier’ itself as that was where I chose to spend my time for the transit. Not only is this my favourite First Class lounge in Asia, but this lounge was closer to my boarding gate for my connecting flight to Zurich. The lounge is located one floor below the main departure level, and is accessed via an escalator around gate 63/65.

Reception desk to The Pier First Class lounge

Before entering the reception, there are 2 staff members who take a cursory look at your boarding pass to check eligibility, and they were able to provide keys to store your luggage. However as I wanted to shower, I needed the stuff in my hand carry. I do bring my own towel for my travels for hygiene reasons, and of course a change of clothes for the continuing journey. Then I proceeded to the reception desk which feels like checking into a luxury boutique hotel.

Foyer View at The Pier

Past that, the lounge has a central walkway that connects the various sections of the lounge. This lounge was designed by StudioIlse, based in London with Ilse Crawford as its lead designer. The choice of materials and fixtures create a cohesive look that is impressive and yet not too flashy, giving it the feel of a restrained luxury.

Elegant walkway in the lounge

My first stop in the lounge was The Retreat which has another reception counter where guests could reserve spots for the private day beds, shower rooms and a massage. Unfortunately, there was no time slot left for the next 3 hours during my layover. Given it was just a short 20 minute massage, I would not say it was something that fantastic of an offering, especially when considering Thai Airways provides an hour long for First Class passengers.

Reception for The Retreat Spa section

However, the shower rooms are probably one of the best inside any commercial airline lounge. Not only is it functional with luggage bench, the shower rooms have good lighting, hangers to hang your jacket and even a stool with a built-in coat hanger.

Private shower room

Cathay Pacific also provides premium products from Aesop which I use on a daily basis and that meant showering here felt like the one at home. While it might lack a bathtub, I do not need it for a layover shower in an airport. Thus a good rainshower with sufficient water pressure and great temperature controls was adequate and allowed me to refresh myself.

Toiletries provided for guests

On top of the normal bath amenities like shampoo, conditioner and shower gel, the shower room has toiletries like a toner, moisturizer, hand lotion and face wash on the counter top. That allowed me to try out some products which I might not otherwise have used.

Aesop bath amenities

After a nice hot shower, it was time for dinner and I proceeded to the end of the lounge where there was a staff member by the entrance of the aptly named The Dining Room.

Dining space at the end of the lounge

Furnished like a proper high end restaurant, there was plenty of seats since it was slightly past dinner time.

The Dining Room inside the lounge

As I got seated, the host handed over the menu, for there is no buffet here. All the items are cooked on demand and complimentary for guests. I was hoping for the pork neck dish they had last time I was there but there seems to be a change in the a-la-carte menu.

A la carte menu at The Dining Room

Thus I had some corn soup to start, though I was apparently given the soup of the day as well. It seems they might have made a double order for me. Since the soup portion were not too big and I love soup, I finished up both portions. They were light and delicately flavoured and hits the spot when travelling. Quality of the starters was up to a bistro level you might get in cafes located in town centres, and definitely better than that of any airline lounge I have been too.

Sweet corn soup with fish maw" width="1024" height="683" />Sweet corn soup with fish mawPumpkin soup – Soup of the day

For the mains, I had the wok fried clams which seems to be a dish one can get in most Hong Kong eateries. The stir fry was surprisingly good, since it was not too oily and the addition of cashews and crunchy celery gave it a refreshing taste. As a main course, a bowl of mixed white and red rice was served and it was tastier than what I had in the First Class cabin. I think it makes sense for First Class passengers to eat first before their long haul journey so they can get to sleep immediately once onboard.

Wok fried clams" width="1024" height="683" />Wok fried clams with steamed rice

For drinks, I had something warm early on with the jasmine and lily tea that the server recommended. It was a dried flower that ‘bloomed’ when hot water was added to the pot. The taste was similar to a light floral green tea.

Jasmine and lily teaRestaurant bar

After the meal, I ordered ‘Ginger Forest’ which is a ginger and lime drink topped with mint and it was such a refreshing drink that I ordered another glass to bring with me to one of the day beds in The Retreat.

Ginger forest beverage

With still plenty of time before boarding, I chose to relax by one of the day beds and these are really great places to rest during the afternoon with light from the windows overlooking the planes on the tarmac. In fact the gates here tend to have the A380s by other carriers, since Cathay has none of these large jets. At night, the space became a bit dark even though there are several lights guests have access to.

Private day beds" width="1024" height="683" />Private day beds

I spent some time finishing my drink and relaxing in the space until I needed more drinks that I proceeded next to The Bar.

Inside The Retreat

The Bar is at the opposite end of The Dining Room, and features a U-shaped bar counter with plenty of comfortable lounge chairs scattered across this spacious carpeted area.

Bar counter

Next to it, there is ‘The Pantry’ which is a moderately sized room with a table full of snacks and pastries and a full fridge of beers, non-alcoholic soft drinks, juices and yogurt parfaits that guests can avail themselves to.

Assorted pastries at The PantryBeverage fridge at The Pantry

I spent the remainder of the time by the bar as I browsed through some magazines that I obtained from the well stocked shelves inside the lounge. It seems that the main reading lounge between The Dining Room and The Bar was quite packed, and this meant I was able to find some space beside the bar counters.

Reading lounge

With plenty of sections to allow privacy for guests and great amenities, time spent inside the lounge does pass by quite quickly and it was soon time to board my flight, but the staff advised me that boarding has yet to commence. In actuality, there was a slight delay to boarding my aircraft. meaning I had more time to just stay inside the lounge. Ensconced in this beautiful surrounding, this was one delay I did not mind, and that just speaks to how comfortable this lounge is.

Seating around the bar

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