As we get back into school and take on a new semester, it can be difficult to take time for ourselves and relax. And, while some people have their self-care routines down to a science, others don’t know where to begin, which can make relaxing even more difficult. Today, I present my personal self-care routine, perfect for a Monday night, a lazy Saturday, and any day in between.
1. Put on relaxing music
![Frank Sinatra's greatest hits, remastered; one of my all-time favorite albums.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-Sinatra-Amazon-1024x1024.jpg)
Music is the quickest way to change my mood, and to help me unwind. For an at-home spa night, I typically alternate between classical and old jazz (like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Louis Armstrong).
2. Adjust the lighting
I’ve always loved the low-lighting of lamps. Rarely, if ever, do I have my overhead lights on, especially at night. Lamps provide the perfect relaxing, soft glow to help you wind down for the evening.
3. Run a bath
![Rose petals, wine, candles, and epsom salt make the perfect bath.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-UnFranchise-Blog.jpg)
I love baths. No matter how busy my day has been, baths give me the opportunity to slow down and relax. Usually, I add a cup of Dr. Teal’s epsom salt, preferably in lavender, and if I have a bath bomb handy, I’ll add that as well.
4. Invest in a Diffuser
![The cult-favorite Vitruvi stone diffuser is a must for any at-home spa night.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-WellGood-Vitruvi-stone-diffuser.jpg)
If you haven’t already, buy yourself a diffuser, like the cult-favorite Vitruvi, and a selection of your favorite essential oils. Nothing sets the mood and helps you relax like the aromas of lavender, sage, and eucalyptus after a long day.
5. Mask Up
![Mud masks are my favorite deep-cleansing masks, and are perfect for all skin types.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-Healthline-mud-mask-1024x575.jpg)
No, thankfully I don’t mean wear a mask; I mean put on a face mask! Whether you’re loyal to sheet masks or mud masks, face masks are an essential part of every self-care routine. My mainstays are Kiehl’s Deep Pore Cleansing Mask and Sephora Collection’s variety of sheet masks.
6. Skincare Tools
![My go-to tool, Skin Gym's iconic Face Sculptor.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-Skin-Gym-skingymfacesculptor_250x250@2x.jpg)
If you haven’t already, check out my original The (Skin)ny article, where I highlight my beauty must-haves. Among the many serums, sunscreens, and moisturizers I use, my skincare tools are my favorite part of my skincare routine. Whether you’re looking to tighten your skin, reduce and prevent wrinkles, or soothe redness, there’s a skincare tool that can help you relax, unwind, and wake up to luminous, bouncy skin.
7. Silk and satin
![Slip's silk pillowcases and eye mask are bedtime essentials.](http://smulook.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SC-Amara-Slip-Silk-pillowcase.jpg)
Silk and satin pillowcases are all the rage, and for good reason. Lauded as the secret to frizz-free hair and happy, healthy skin, these miracle-workers are an essential for every beauty fanatic, and Slip’s pillowcase and eye mask set are too cute to pass up.