Turn your home into your very own spa

It's Friday night, and you've worked hard all week. You're in dire need of (and deserve!) some TLC, but you don't want to leave the house — and you certainly don't want to spend half your paycheck at the spa. After all, you're trying to save for that trip to Europe and need to stick to your budget.

You don't have to spend a fortune or even change out of your pajamas to indulge in self care. See below for some tips on turning your Friday night into your very own spa retreat.

Setting the mood

In order to get the most out of your at-home spa experience, you need to set the mood. Turn off all notifications on your cell phone. This includes texts, phone calls, emails, and social media. The world can wait while you take some time to unwind from the week.

Next, throw on a calming playlist to help settle your mind and get in the mood. You can find already curated playlists on most streaming services.

Dim the lights, light some candles, and turn on your oil diffuser! Lavender is a commonly used scent in aromatherapy known to help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Put a few drops of lavender essential oil in your diffuser for an instant calming effect. Other scents that offer relaxing effects include bergamot, ylang ylang, clary sage, and jasmine.

DIY your way into relaxation

Soothing avocado face mask: No need to go to the spa and get an expensive facial: You can mix up your own face mask in the comfort of your home using items you probably already have in your kitchen. Try this face mask recipe containing ingredients to help hydrate, detox, and nourish your skin.

Relaxing lavender bath soak: It's time to draw a hot bath! Add one to two cups of Epsom salt to help remove toxins from the body and reduce bloating. Epsom salt is also full of magnesium, which reduces stress and promotes relaxation. Add in some lavender-infused bubble bath or essential oil to moisturize your skin and add to the calming vibe. Lastly, if you want to splurge, top off your bath with some dried flower petals to really pamper yourself. Apply the face mask you mixed up in the kitchen, queue up your relaxing playlist, and hop in!

Once you're settled in the tub, close your eyes and take some deep, smoothing breaths as you contemplate all you're grateful for. Make sure you soak for at least 20 minutes to experience all of the benefits of the Epsom salt and to quiet your mind.

Moisturize your skin the natural way: After you've soaked, hop out of the bath and lather yourself with unrefined coconut oil. High in antioxidants and vitamin E, coconut oil helps to retain the moisture content of your skin and keeps your connective tissues strong and supple while reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also exfoliates the outer layer of dead skin cells, making your skin softer. Coconut oil is solid at room temperature, so you may need to warm it up in your hands before applying. Not only is coconut oil a low cost, highly effective moisturizer, but you can also use it as a healthy cooking ingredient!

Lights out: Brew some herbal tea and climb into bed. Reflect on your day. How calm and relaxed do you feel now? Take this moment to set your intentions for tomorrow.

Ready to unwind and recharge?

Self care should be an important part of our routine, but it often gets over looked because we feel we don't have enough spare time or money to spend on treating ourselves. Implementing these easy tips at home will help to relax and rejuvenate you while staying within your budget. Take the time to give yourself some TLC so you're made ready for whatever comes your way tomorrow.