All mamas deserve an oasis of relaxation and self-care in their own homes. We asked Michelle Harris, TV host of Alive and Well TV, for tips on how to create the perfect spa for both mommy and baby at home. Keep calm and spa on!
The Must-Have Items to Create the Perfect Home Spa
SFBAM: How do we create a “spa feel” in our home and what items do you recommend for amazing at-home treatments?
MH: It’s easy to create a “spa feel” right in your own home! Here are some items that would help you set the right spa stage:
- A basket of fluffy towels
- Just laundered robe
- Your favorite relaxing music
- Your favorite body butter
- Gloves and booties – add on top of body butter and use them overnight or for an hour; either way, your and feet will look amazing and feel super soft!
- Beverages – drinks like my Sambucol Black Elderberry Wellness Shot are a great way to kick off your spa experience
Sambucol Black Elderberry Wellness Shot Recipe
– 2 parts pineapple juice (rich in digestive enzymes)
– 1 part Sambucol Black Elderberry Liquid (rich in antioxidants to support a healthy immune system)
– a splash of lemon (for detoxification)
SFBAM: Any suggestions to cool off at a home spa on a hot Bay Area day?
MH: To keep things cool when things are hot outside, be sure to stay hydrated with cool beverages! Also, relaxing with fresh from the fridge cucumber slices on your eyes will help you to feel cooler. Adding lotions and creams with aloe vera, or even getting gel from the plant itself will be refreshing on any warm day!
SFBAM: For those sensitive to strong smells (e.g. pregnant women), what sort of aromatherapy would you recommend?
MH: Aromatherapy is a wonderful way to help pregnant women relax. Lavender is my go-to aromatherapy oil for relaxation. I also like orange and vanilla. They smell like home!
Have a Mommy & Baby Spa Date
SFBAM: What are some natural ingredients fit for a spa that’s also safe for little ones?
MH: Babies and children have skin that is more sensitive than adult skin. It’s usually best to use natural products formulated for children. “Clean” skincare is optimal for kids and adults so fortunately, we have plenty of products to choose from. Ingredients such as Chamomile, Oatmeal (great for moisture and itchy skin), Calendula, and Shea Butter work well for the entire family.
SFBAM: For those with sensitive skin, how often shall we exfoliate?
MH: I have sensitive skin so I rarely use an exfoliating mask on my face. Instead, opt for a vitamin C serum or retinol. Both will help to get rid of dead skin and promote new cell growth. For skin on your body, use a soft brush to exfoliate. Nothing too harsh. Most of all, see how your skin feels. Every person’s skin is different so find something that works for you and stick with it.
SFBAM: How warm should the water in the bubble bath be?
MH: Bubble baths are best for adults at 110 to 112 degrees. You shouldn’t soak for more than 25 minutes. For children, temperatures between 100 degrees and no higher than 120 degrees are recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Michelle Harris is the host of Alive & Well with Michelle Harris, a national TV series promoting the wellness lifestyle. Michelle is one of the media’s leading lifestyle experts and is often on red carpets and live events. Michelle is also the co-founder of Animal Angels, a non-profit advocacy group where celebrities promote pet health and adoptions.
