Stress Less: Give yourself a gift to the spa

I decided not to wait to see if I get a gift certificate to a local spa for Christmas this year. Most of us probably need the stress relief before the holiday high point anyway. In January, just having a normal life has a therapeutic effect.

So, a couple girlfriends and I have set aside a few bucks for ourselves and have booked an appointment at this place. We're getting a Roman bath and a 15-minute massage. Should be the perfect refresher. The place is old school and far cheaper than many other options in our area. There are plenty of resources for finding something close to you, including this list of spas. Or maybe you'd like this one better. If you're traveling, try this international list.

If the budget simply won't allow self indulgence, try a tub soak with some lavender oil at home. But make sure to schedule it as an appointment so you're sure to make it happen amid the holiday hoopla.