An At-Home Retreat + Spa Experience

By implementing rituals of self-care we are better able to deal with the stress that unprecedented times like these can bring about. For the sake of feeling rejuvenated and clear, we’d like to invite you to set aside some time for an At-Home Retreat + Spa Experience. You can commit an entire day to this or even just one hour, work with what you have.

at-home spa and retreat experience

RETREAT + SPA MOOD

The first thing to do is create a proper space to relax in by making sure your home is orderly and clean. A big reason we gravitate towards spas and other such environments is because of the mood they set for us. We can create a similar effect by making sure the rubbish is thrown out, surfaces are clear, dishes are washed, and clutter is out of the way.

Next, make your home smell heavenly. You can diffuse essential oils, burn incense, light scented candles, and even open the windows to let in some fresh air. Investing in natural flowers also sets a beautiful and fragrant ambiance in any space.

Sound also plays an important role in our relaxation potential, so consider putting on some nourishing background music such as singing bowls, nature sounds, or binaural beats – all of which are commonly heard in spas and retreat centers for this very reason.

Prepare yourself a pitcher of infused water with cucumber, citrus slices, or berries. This feels luxurious, fun, and is effectively hydrating. Also consider having some herbal tea and light snacks handy so that they are easy to put together on a whim throughout the day.

Details such as these will support your mind to feel calm and your senses to feel at ease.

Once your space is in order pick out your favorite loungewear, activewear, and robe. Clothing that ideally allows you to feel both comfortable and attractive.

Tips to pamper yourself at home with a spa day

RETREAT + SPA PLAN

Like any retreat or spa experience, there has to be a schedule of activities you wish to participate in that will help you feel your best. We suggest selecting 1-5 activities that you wish to pamper yourself with. Have fun with these ideas and write them out in a scheduled format as a structure to follow.

To begin the at home retreat we recommend beginning with a little movement. We become stressed and tired from spending so much time in our heads, and the quickest way out of the mind is by returning to the body. Select a gentle 20-30 minute yoga or Pilates class online, or whatever your preference, and commit to the practice. Inviting circulation to move and enliven will only add to your experience.

After some body movement, shift into a short guided meditation. There are an abundance of free resources out there for this. You can make the experience extra special by setting up a designated space for your practices, and adorning it as you would enjoy to see in any studio or salon.

Once you wrap up your guided meditation, pull out a journal and write down any reflections or thoughts that may have come up for you. Writing can be a cathartic exercise for the mind, and the simple act of jotting down a few sentences can leave you feeling so renewed.

From here, begin the spa portion of your at home retreat.

Pamper yourself to a deep cleansing facial and moisturizing hair mask using your favorite products. Turn your bathroom into a sanctuary for this. Light a few candles, set up a few flowers, and display the products you’ll be using intentionally just as you would see at a salon. Creating an atmosphere like this turns an ordinary experience into an extraordinary one. Most importantly, move patiently as you nurture your skin and body. We rush quite enough throughout the day, so allow this to be a moment to slow down and simply feel into the senses.

While you allow the products to settle in and do their work, you can enjoy a cup of tea, manicure your nails, or simply read a few pages of your favorite book. Staying true to the intention of relaxing and being good to yourself.

Next, begin filling the bathtub. Add some bath salts, essential oils, flowers, and anything that can help make this particular bath feel over the top. Surround the tub with candles, beautiful lighting, and serene sounds, and set aside at least twenty minutes to soak it all in. Your nervous system will melt with gratitude.

After the bath, consider massaging oils to the bottoms of your feet or any part of the body that is asking for some extra attention. This supports proper circulation, moves stagnant lymph, and is a way to connect with your one and only body.

Lastly, begin to wind down from your Retreat + Spa Plan by taking a short nap. This will allow the experience to really settle in before re-integrating into life as you know it.

NOURISHING & SELF-REVERENCE

We hope this whole At-Home Retreat + Spa Experience fills you with nourishment and a sense of self-reverence. Feel free to get creative with the idea, have fun with it, and enjoy your own company. You will emerge better ready to deal with the world outside.

We are all working our way through a changed world as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. We may no longer be quarantined or under stay-at-home orders, but everyone is stretched to adapt like never before.  All of us are in this together. Now more than ever, caring is what we need most. Caring for our self. Caring for others around us in our communities. Life now demands caring, resilience and compassion like never before. This is a great opportunity to create the world we want for our future generations. We invite you to join us in creating a caring movement!

Would you like to read more about UCA caring resources and products? We have other blogs on Unified Caring Association and our products, caring in our communities, and caring the UCA way!

By Melissa Aparicio, contributing author

So Now You Want a FISH?!

As some of us continue to endure the ‘same old – same old’ of quarantine, it is natural for our minds to meander in directions that never had an arrow before. If we’re bored, lonely or feeling useless, we may entertain the thought of having a pet.  Dogs and cats are out – no room/no time – but what about a fish!?  YES… Now you want a FISH!

Now you want a fish?!

We love our pets!  Over 65% of Americans have pets.  The most common pets are cats, then dogs and many other variety of species ranging from birds to horses; and everything in between. No matter the species, we humans tend to humanize our pets — we see them as having similar characteristics to us.  We respond and relate to their personalities – whether they’re sweet and cuddly, or unpredictable little rascals.  When they verbalize, we talk back to them.  When we talk to them, we assume they understand every word.

Across the board, we relate to pets as members of our family.   Which brings up a curious question for those who have fish as their pet of choice.  Because a fish does not vocalize or have the ability to cuddle, how does one relate to a fish???

Fish are the ideal pet for those who are away from home during the day. You don’t have to worry about fish disturbing the neighbors or barking at the UPS driver.  Best of all you don’t have to feel guilty that you left them alone all day, or worry that they will eat your shoes out of boredom. 

Fish are gentle pets.  They glide around their underwater lair, tails swaying to and fro, creating a soothing, hypnotic effect.  If you’ve ever watched fish swim in a tank for a while, you will notice how you just seem to be drawn into their gentle rhythm. Because they provide a consistent presence of calm, fish owners very often view a fish tank as one would view a TV screen., but with very different results.

What do we know of fish?  Do they just swim around all day, aimlessly avoiding that skeleton that pops up from the treasure chest?   

Fish are smart!  They remember which end of the tank their feeding occurs.  When you tap on the tank, not only can fish hear you, they can see you as well – in color!  Yes, call your fish by name when you’re at the tank, and they’ll learn to respond.  Fish have individual personalities.  The more you relate to them, the more they will relate to you.

Fish are social and like the company of other fish.  So 2 or more other fish is recommended so your fish doesn’t get too bored.  And if you’re lucky, they’ll go nose-to-nose with you when you put your face up to the tank.

So if you’ve been craving a pet, but have allergies, limited budget, limited time or fussy neighbors, consider some fish.  Pick out a decent size tank (remember – most fish come from an ocean or lake); pop in some lovely rocks and fauna and whatever else catches your fancy.  Give them lovable names and encourage them to be their cute little selves.      

We are all being called to do extraordinary things for the collective caring of our families, communities and the world in response to the unique coronavirus pandemic. Whether home bound or providing critical services, everyone is stretched to adapt like never before.  All of us are in this together. Now more than ever, caring is what we need most. Caring for our self. Caring for others around us. Life is going to require new routines, resilience and compassion. We invite you to join us in creating a caring movement to respond to local needs.

Would you like to read more about UCA caring resources and products? We have other blogs on Unified Caring Association and our products, caring in our communities, and caring the UCA way!

COPING: A Very Common Theme During These COVID-19 Days

It would be super-cool if there was one answer to every question, and one way to deal with unexpected situations.  However, we humans are not wired to experience life in the same way. Let’s take a look at some challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic and how we can effectively approach them from the perspective of different personality types applied to coping.

coping considering personality types

Type A is a typical high achiever. They set goals and spend their time effectively.  They are used to achieving what they seek, and can get impatient when life doesn’t support what they need to do to reach their goals.   If you or someone you know has Type A traits, here is a suggestion to channel the frustration of not having control:  The drive to succeed can be redirected toward a greater cause. Achievements can take a more urgent focus with the issues at hand. Many people have settled into a new routine – whether it be boring, anxious or fulfilling – whereas a Type A has the ability to pull the best out of a situation due to their focus and determination. This gift can extend to the family, neighbors, local businesses and other areas affected by the pandemic. So give them the ball and watch what happens!

Type B, on the other hand, is a relaxed, go-with-the-flow kind of person.  Their enjoyment comes from experiencing the moment.  They are social, sensitive to other’s emotions and quite patient.  They can be a calming influence when around others.  Sounds like a blessing if you are in quarantine with this type of personality.  However, Type B’s may find themselves drifting more than usual.  Without structure, they may fall into lethargy and lose their sense of time.  In order to pull this personality type back into the game of life, they would need structure and purpose.  A great job for a Type B during this pandemic is to be the ‘go-fer’ for the family and neighborhood if they can responsibly and safely go out.  If not, they need defined tasks such as menu planning; laundry duty; giving daily news update, etc. – anything to keep them actively engaged.

Type C is a perfectionist.  They are detail-oriented and like to excel in whatever they do. They go by the rules, and don’t like it when things don’t go in a predictable manner. Enter the pandemic!  New rules are being written every day and Type C people may feel challenged and frustrated by the lack of routine. A good way to tap into the qualities of this personality type is to utilize this tendency for perfection to ‘structure’ the new ways of doing life.  They have what it takes to see how things can run as smoothly and efficiently as possible and will feel valued to be able to assist in this way. 

Type D can be a warm and wonderful person.  This personality type is sensitive to other people’s feelings and will often give wise and heartfelt advice.  While they are safe to be around, internally they might feel isolated and discouraged – and they usually don’t share that.  Being isolated or forced to change their lifestyle due to the pandemic might signal a downward spiral for this personality type.  While it is important to be upbeat and positive around them, the very best thing for them is to feel needed.  They love to help and be there for others.  So if you or someone you know has these personality traits, figure out the best way to let their caring and sensitivity shine a bright light on your life.

Most of us can identify with one or more of the above personality types.  While we are sensitive to the downside of each type, there are nuggets of promise in each one that will help each and every one of us get through these unprecedented times  We are all bonded by this experience.  By appreciating the upside of others, we can get through this with more lightheartedness, purpose and laughter.

We are all being called to do extraordinary things for the collective caring of our families, communities and the world in response to the unique coronavirus pandemic. Whether home bound or providing critical services, everyone is stretched to adapt like never before.  All of us are in this together. Now more than ever, caring is what we need most. Caring for our self. Caring for others around us. Life is going to require new routines, resilience and compassion. We invite you to join us in creating a caring movement to respond to local needs.

Would you like to read more about UCA caring resources and products? We have other blogs on Unified Caring Association and our products, caring in our communities, and caring the UCA way!

Earth Day 2020: Celebration of the Seen and Unseen

It is quite auspicious that we are celebrating Earth Day 2020 during this time of Covid-19 quarantine. For who can deny that our great planet earth has blossomed with joyous vitality because of less toxic activity on land, in the air and in the waters.  Animals are rediscovering the freedom of exploring territories that pose no threat.  Even the Elementals are more in harmony as they perform their tasks on behalf of man and the planet.

The concept of Elementals or Nature Spirits has been around since the Earth began.  They are believed to be the fundamental building blocks of nature, and are classified as follows:

Gnomes are portly little nature spirits that tend the Earth throughout the four seasons.  They are responsible to make sure all living creatures are supplied with their daily needs. 

Undines are the delicate guardians of the waters.  They control tides and weather conditions to ensure the Earth is provided with the variables it needs to sustain life. Undines also dwell around ponds and lakes.

Sylphs are in charge of the air.  Ethereal in nature, they swiftly travel over land and sea, purifying the atmosphere for all living things.

Perhaps least understood of the 4 Elementals are the Salamanders.  These powerful nature spirits use the fires of creation to infuse molecules of matter in both organic and inorganic life, so that life can flourish.

Clearly, Earth is thriving due to less environmental damage and the efforts of the Elementals who work tirelessly to sustain the miracle of life for us and our beautiful planet.  When we go back to our new ‘normal’ will we learn to tread the Earth with more gentility, respect and awareness?  Will we be kinder to each other and other species?  Will we create a simpler life where basic needs are based on needs, and less on wants?  And most importantly, will we take the necessary actions to safeguard nature to ensure a future for ourselves and generations to come?  What better gifts could we give to Mother Earth, and what better gift could we give to ourselves?  Happy Earth Day 2020!

We are all being called to do extraordinary things for the collective caring of our families, communities and the world in response to the unique coronavirus pandemic. Whether home bound or providing critical services, everyone is stretched to adapt like never before.  All of us are in this together. Now more than ever, caring is what we need most. Caring for our self. Caring for others around us. Life is going to require new routines, resilience and compassion. We invite you to join us in creating a caring movement to respond to local needs.

Would you like to read more about UCA caring resources and products? We have other blogs on Unified Caring Association and our products, caring in our communities, and caring the UCA way!

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