I know what you’re thinking – an at-home spa is only for the rich and famous. But that’s not the case. What if I told you that you could indulge yourself in a spa-like experience everyday, or at least a couple times a month? Did you ever think that your own personal oasis could be just down the hall?

With a little bit of Zen and a couple accessories, your home bathroom can be transformed into a personal sanctuary, one that you can retreat to any time the call of duty is wearing you down. It doesn’t take expensive Japanese soaking tubs or Jacuzzis (although if your budget permits, why not?). It doesn’t even take a huge space. It merely takes the little things that make a spa so inviting and relaxing. It is elements like the plush towels, low lighting and the aroma of lavender that you remember most when you visit the spa, and these things can definitely be recreated in any bathroom.

First things first, though. If you intend to recreate a spa-like experience, you need to de-clutter your space. Simplicity is key. Clutter gives the impression that the space is hectic and chaotic. Bathrooms have a tendency to get filled-up with junk. You know what I’m talking about ladies (and some of you men, too). Those countless bottles of hair and face products have got to go (let’s face it—the fountain of youth isn’t in a bottle, anyway). Keep as much as possible hidden in drawers and cabinets. Items that are not stored away should be kept neatly in decorative baskets or in some sort of eye-pleasing container. Next, take a minute to reflect on what is truly relaxing to you as an individual. Envision the colors, aromas, textures and sounds that make you the most at peace. It’s an individual concept – the scent of sweet orange may be heavenly to some, whereas the aroma of sugar cookies may create comfort and relaxation for others (sugar cookie scented candles are now available – how fabulous is that?). Now take your vision and place it into action. Develop those great ideas and begin to brainstorm on how you can incorporate those creative elements into your existing bathroom space.

With your personal preferences and budget in mind,
consider some of the following ideas:

1. Paint your walls a soothing color. Lilac or pale green colors are recognized for their calming effects. Painting is also a fairly inexpensive way to effectively transform the mood of a room.

2. Make room for candles. Candles have the perfect marriage of wonderful aroma and tranquil lighting, both of which are the key to a spa-like atmosphere. Consider creating little nooks along the wall for your scented candles to really generate that spa feel.

3. Invest in a robe and/or plush towels. Being able to wrap yourself in a warm, cozy cloth after a long, hot bath will feel like absolute heaven. Trust me, quality towels are worth the expense.

4. Create a spa basket. Incorporate an assortment of luxurious bath soaps, creams, lotions, facial masks, scrubs and bath salts. Reserve these special items for your spa days to heighten the experience.

5. Plug in a portable CD player. Find soothing sounds such as those found in nature or instrumental music to enjoy while soaking in the tub.

Depending on your motivation and budget, your spa-inspired bathroom makeover can either be a complete overhaul or a basic face lift, but having an at-home sanctuary will be well worth whatever you decide to do.