How often do you relax? Really relax? Vegetating in front of the TV doesn't count, neither does sleeping. Relaxation is something you do, not something that just happens when you're not busy. It's a gift you give yourself, but it's also a necessity of life. We all know what happens when you get wound too tight. Stress leads to everything from bad hair and skin to heart disease and cancer. Who needs that?

Not everyone can take a week off to go to a luxury spa and be pampered. Not everyone can afford to spend thousands of dollars on products and fancy bottles, either. But you can take an hour or two each week, some easy to find ingredients and make your own spa at home. It's all about giving your body, mind and spirit some well-deserved time off.

Atmosphere

Choose just one room in your house where you can be alone and quiet. The bathroom is the usual choice, but it can be anywhere. Prepare your space ahead of time so you can relax during your spa time. Clean, declutter and dust the space. It doesn't have to be perfect; but your mind needs to be at peace, not looking at the pile of clothes to be folded. There should be no reminders of "stuff I should be doing instead of relaxing."

Now that the space is cleared, start adding things that will help you relax. Soft music, scented candles or incense, fresh flowers, photos of loved ones or special mementos can all be beneficial. Just be sure you don't reclutter the space you just cleared.

Do you relax better in the company of good friends? Why not invite the girls over for a spa party? You can divide up the ingredients list and ask everyone to bring one item.