Creating a Special Space to Begin Your Spa Treatments

Before we begin with any treatments we must first set up your spa space. Find an area in your home that you can use for your spa. If you have a room or special area that you can designate for this purpose that would be ideal. If not, find a place that you can easily set up and transform for a session. Whatever the area in your home, you want to make it clear that this space is special.

Remember CLAFTS when preparing your space

1. C -Clean the respective area. You know the saying, Tidiness is next to Godliness. Clean out the room or area thoroughly. Remove any papers, magazines or any other clutter. Open the windows to let in fresh air even if the air is brisk in the fall or early winter months.
2. L - Lighting is important when establishing ambiance. Dim the lights or use candles where appropriate to encourage relaxation. When necessary ensure that you have amble lighting to mix ingredients or read.
   
3. A - Aromatherapy oils, candles or incense lit around the area so stimulate your sense of smell. Later we will discuss the various scents and what mood they will evoke. For now, below are some basic data to get you started.
   
4. F - Flowers that are cut fresh in beautiful vases instantly create color, contours and aromas. We tend to believe that fresh flowers is an expensive luxury but that is furthest from the truth. Most local markets have a bouquet of various flowers for under $10; depending on the flower selection of course. This small investment would equate to the cost of one day lunch and well worth the weekly investment. If you have a garden then you certainly can create a beautiful display of your favorites in a sculptured vase. Create a ritual to place fresh flowers in your space at least once a week. Perhaps every Saturday after a long work week or Sunday to prepare your mind and soul for the upcoming week. It may be appropriate for you to place them on Wednesdays to get you through the week. You decide.
   
5. T - Temperature in the room should be warm and comfortable. In the winter you may have to adjust your heat to accommodate your treatment in only a towel. In the spring/summer you may also want to open the windows to let in fresh air and ventilate the room.
6. S - Sounds should be music that is soothing, relaxing or inspirational. Classical music is a common favorite however, you may prefer the natural sounds found in New Age music. Chanting and rhythmic music like beating drums would also bring about stress relief.

Note: incense will purify the air once your space is clean. You may choose between incense in a stick or cone that create bliss, harmony, energizing or tranquil effects.

• Indian incense are generally have a sandalwood or patchouli base with smells of sweet and musky.
• Tibetan incense more often are earthy with forest-like aroma.
• Native American incense usually have a pine or sage aroma with a fresh energizing effect.

Similarly, aromatherapy scents create various emotional states. Here are a few to start:

• Juniper Berry - energizing
• Grapefruit - joyful
• Lemon - renewing
• Lavender - calming
• Bergamot & Cardamom - creativity
• Eucalyptus - exhilarating

This is a great place to start to begin the EVOLVING of your Life and Home Spa.

Enjoy the wonderful experience of aromatherapy.

Andrea