Forget that ratty old recliner. If you want to break the bank on some serious relaxation, invest in a massage chair. Whether you want a basic model or you’re pulling out all the stops, this is one way to achieve zen. The chairs from Sharper Image tend toward more classic lines that will match most existing furniture styles. Or, if you want to feel like you’re in the spa of the future, check out the space age look of Inada’s massage chairs.
If you need something smaller than a massage chair, target your sorest muscles with a more compact solution. Got tense shoulders? There’s a massager for that. Tired feet? There’s a massager for that. Lower back pain? Yep, you guessed it.
Many spa fans swear by the rejuvenating power of facials. You can get a similar deep cleansing at home, thanks to new technology. One example is the OxySonic Facial Brush from Pretika, which combines microdermabrasion features with oxygenated mists for fresher skin. Or spend a couple minutes with the Portable Facial Steamer from Jellen to clear your complexion with a personalized treatment timer.
You won’t be able to relax if you’re worried about burning your building down. Go the safer route and pick up a few flameless candles to get the atmosphere without the stress. Pick your favorite relaxing color from Candle Impressions, or look for a model that hides the fake flame a little better.
The little things can make a big difference. A toasty towel right after a shower or bath can keep you feeling relaxed, so look into adding a towel warmer to your routine. A wall-mounted model will save floor space for those extra-small bathrooms. If you have lots of shelf space, look for a countertop version.
With a high-tech reimagining of a traditional aromatherapy diffuser, you can reach the ultimate in relaxation. Soothe the senses with this Puzhen Sha diffuser. It not only releases calming smells into the air, but also hooks up to an MP3 player to provide calming audio. The diffuser also uses LEDs to display relaxing colored lights for a complete sensory experience.
Background noise can effectively calm your mind, whether you’re relaxing in the tub or drifting off to sleep. A sound machine packed with nature sounds, like the SoundSpa from HoMedics, can get you in the right mood. A battery-powered model will make it easier to relocate the machine wherever you want to unwind.
A few hours at the spa can make all the difference, but finding the money or time for the trip might just cause you more stress. Luckily, you can pick up gadgets to recreate elements of the spa experience in your own home. That way, you can enjoy quality time on your own schedule.
See also: 10 Creative Solutions for a More Productive Workspace
Whether you have a spacious house or a tiny apartment, you can find cool technology for calm. Here are seven gadget ideas to help you start relaxing your body and mind.
If you have any favorite tools for at-home spas, tell us about them in the comments.
Image: TORSTEN BLACKWOOD/AFP/Getty Images