Archive for March, 2010
Bath Products - White Peony
I’m usually a big fan of the shower but, it’s Sunday morning and, for some reason, I treated myself to a bath. I don’t know why….it’s not the normal routine but considering how great I still feel, some two hours later, it might become a routine. I recently ordered a spa gift set so I had some bath salts that I decided to try. I started with very hot water so the salts would melt and the vapors would waft throughout the room. When I slipped in, it was a little hotter than I expected but I managed to adjust quickly.
It was definitely the salts that made the difference. Usually, I get into the bath and it’s nice for about 2 minutes and then I get bored. This time I allowed myself to luxuriate. Wow, what an amazing treat. I still feel great – relaxed, soothed, and I can still smell the scent of the salts. I obviously didn’t know what I was missing all this time and Sunday morning may never be the same.
Vanilla Bliss - Reed Diffuser
Spring cleaning is such a cliche but there really is something to say for beginning a new season with a fresh start in at least one aspect of your life. I went through my closet the other day and successfully (reluctantly?) collected a bunch of things to give to the Thrift Store. I always hate to admit it when I find I’ve purchased something that just never got worn for whatever reason. What a waste. Let’s not even discuss the things I have to give away because they just don’t fit anymore. But, I do take pleasure in knowing that maybe it will catch someone else’s eye who will enjoy wearing it.
The best part is the closet space I can reclaim. The shelves get dusted, sweaters refolded, stacks straightened and, for a short time, things are neat again. I’ve recently discovered reed diffusers which really make the closet smell great. Mind you, it is oil so be sure you put it where it won’t fall over and hopelessly stain your favorite silk shirt.
Green Apple Bath Collection
I was just cruising around the Internet and stumbled across an article written by James Whittall, President of MenEssentials. According to his research, men account for half of all spa customers. This article was written in 2003 so can you imagine what is happening by now….2010? He included a list of Recommended Spas that cater to men http://www.menessentials.com/oxid.php/sid/oxs4ba4e4d002fce/cl/links. The list is amazingly long!!
I’m so impressed by this and happily take my hat off to men who realize how important it is to treat your body like the temple it is. We all have men friends who are dedicated to a gym regime but often that’s as far as they take it. Facials, massages, and even a periodic mani/pedi makes all the difference in your appearance. It can also have a significant and positive impact on your level of confidence.
Women often talk about how difficult it is to find a great gift for men. Well, it appears to me that this phenomenon has opened up a fantastic spa gift arena that we girls can really relate to. Hooray for male enlightenment!!
Sweet Fragrance of Home Candle Collection - Nantucket Egg Nog
Whether they were used as a light source, a heat source, or a symbol, candles have been burned by people across the globes for centuries. Today, candles are not strictly necessary because of the prevalent use of electric lights or battery operated flashlights. However, you are hard-pressed to find a home that doesn’t have at least one candle. Why are they still so popular? Today, candles are used largely for dim dinner lighting, decoration, or scent, but candles actually have a wide array of uses outside the home as well.
One of the most prevalent places candles are used is in religious practices. In Sikhism, candles play a prevalent role in Diwali, sometimes known as the festival of lights. In Buddhism, candles are very often displayed at the feet of Buddha. In this sense, candles are used as a sign of respect. The candle as a sign of reverence is common in other major religions as well, ranging from Christianity to Judaism. The list goes on. No matter the specific religious significance, candles generally mirror the metaphor of light as truth, and based on that, are common in many ceremonies. Because of their ubiquitous nature, candle gift baskets are perfect for virtually any occasion.
Five Light Candlestick Glass Jeweled Candelabra - Silver
It’s been raining for several days in New York City and believe me when I tell you, New Yorkers don’t take that well. More to the point, the grouchy quotient increases exponentially. In the city that never sleeps, rainy weather and the petulant population are two good reasons to stay indoors.
For me, the best way to treat a winter blahs day is to light as many candles as possible. Normally that would mean putting out as many votives as the flat surfaces in my apartment will hold. However, I recently bought a candelabra – what a difference and what a delight it is when it’s in full burn….wow!
I’m now a huge fan. It’s not only a great new thing for me but it’s become my new favorite gift idea. Candle gifts are always a great hit because they’re beautiful and they’re also practical. Candelabras take the candle gift to the next level. What a winner!!
If you know someone who is stressed out by work or family, or has chronic pain and body soreness, she might find great relaxation with a trip to the spa. But spas can be expensive, and not everyone has to time or the energy to go to one. However, you can replicate the spa experience and encourage your friend or family member to take time out for herself by putting together a spa gift basket for her. She’ll surely appreciate the time and thought you put into the gift.
You can create a spa gift basket with relaxing items like a lumbar back pillow, a warm neck wrap, a thick and creamy body scrub, a massager, and more. The idea is to create a spa experience at home with easy-to-use items. Include a face mask to replicate the feeling of a facial, and add some scented candles and relaxing CDs to create a calming atmosphere. Your friend or family member will be so grateful to you for giving her to tools to help her relax and relief chronic pain and soreness.