As a diehard traveler, I have done all sorts of escapist things to try to replicate my beloved globetrotting vibe while stuck at home during Covid. I’ve cooked traditional recipes from around the world, organized my photos from past trips, read and watched countless transformative literature and films, and turned my living room into a global night market. Recently, I’ve been on a mission to turn my bathroom into a globally-inspired spa. This transformation is likely a response to the lingering effects of winter and the pandemic, as my body craves attention and care.
If you want to travel to Hawai’i
…try a hibiscus + salt steam
For any Hawaiian ritual, the most important element is putting good energy—aloha—into everything you do. Aloha means honoring the idea that we are all connected, as we share the breath of life. For a traditional Hawaiian steam, gather some paʻakai (Hawaiian salt) and a handful of dried hibiscus leaves, then place them in a bowl that holds personal significance. Boil water and pour it over the hibiscus and salt, creating steam for your face.
…or an ‘olena (turmeric) + kukui nut oil face mask
Utilizing ‘olena (turmeric) for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties and kukui nut oil, known for keeping skin soft, has been a practice for centuries. Mix a sprinkle of ‘olena with kukui nut oil to create a paste. Apply this to your face for a nourishing treatment that connects you with ancient Hawaiian wisdom.
If you want to travel to Martinique
…try a banana body exfoliating scrub
Ripe bananas not only signify tropical escapades but are packed with mucilages, resulting in a soothing and moisturizing exfoliating scrub. To create this, mash a ripe banana, sugarcane, and oil, then rub it across your body. This soothing scrub works gently to remove dead skin.
…or a banana peel face mask
Banana peels have healing properties known to calm inflamed skin. Create a mask by scraping the inside of a banana peel and mixing it with honey and oil. This natural mask can reduce acne and soothe irritated skin.
If you want to travel to Mexico
…center your soul with a copal incense ritual
Copal incense, historically sacred to the Maya, promotes presence and mindfulness. Burning copal can help ground your thoughts and connect you with the moment, creating a serene environment for reflection.
…or make your own lunar essential oil blend to lift your spirits
Incorporate lunar cycles into your wellness routine by crafting essential oil blends inspired by moon phases to uplift your spirit and enhance your well-being.
If you want to travel to Africa
…try a Rwandan coffee scrub
Utilize fresh Rwandan coffee mixed with coconut oil and shea butter for an all-natural body scrub. The treatment encapsulates the essence of East Africa and is incredibly invigorating.
…or a shea butter oil self-massage
Experience the tradition of using shea butter for self-care by massaging your body with shea butter oil. This not only hydrates but also connects you with a deeply rooted cultural practice.
If you want to travel to Morocco
…turn your bathroom into a hammam
A hammam is a steam room that purifies and revitalizes the skin. Create your own by running a hot shower or filling the bathtub with hot water. Utilize Moroccan black soap or oil-free, fragrance-free soap to cleanse your skin thoroughly.
If you want to travel to China/Southeast Asia
…try gua sha
Gua sha is an ancient Chinese practice that promotes lymphatic drainage and improves circulation. Use a gua sha tool gently on your skin for revitalization and to enhance absorption of skincare products.
If you want to travel to India
…try an Ayurvedic stress-relieving scalp treatment called pichu
Ayurveda emphasizes personalized wellness and scalp treatments like pichu. By applying warm, infused oil to your scalp, you can quiet the mind and relieve stress with this holistic practice.
