While a visit to Thailand is still a distant prospect for us due to Covid-19 travel restrictions, Centara Hotels and Resorts brings you closer to one aspect of Thailand: DIY video tutorials show you how to create your own version of a Thai spa at home – with tips directly from health experts.

Whether it's body scrubs, skincare routines, or massage techniques – try out these easy-to-use methods. If you're looking to exercise and stay fit, Centara also offers a collection of simple yet effective workout videos and instructions for home use.

Bonus: They're kid-friendly! Start your wellness routine at home with these 5 tips.

1. Create the right atmosphere

A spa experience thrives on atmosphere – transform your bathroom into your own personal treatment room. Put on some relaxing music, dim the lights, light scented candles, and use your favorite blend of essential oils.

2. Skin preparation – face

Facial steamers are all the rage because they soften the skin, making it easier for skincare products to penetrate. Don't have a facial steamer? Then simply make your own: Fill a large bowl with boiled water (the water should be cool enough so the steam won't burn your skin) and add a few drops of refreshing and detoxifying essential oil – lemon or peppermint work perfectly. If you don't have essential oils, simply steep lemon or peppermint tea in the water. Place a towel over your head and lean over the bowl for a few minutes while breathing deeply.

3. Skin preparation – Body

Dry brushing is a fantastic way to remove dry skin (especially on the legs), stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic flow, and get your overall circulation going. A dry loofah sponge works wonders: Start on your lower legs with brisk upward strokes and slowly work your way up. Above the chest, brush your body with downward strokes. The treatment only takes a few minutes, and you'll feel great afterward.

4. Homemade face masks

Face masks are easy to make yourself – with just a few ingredients from your pantry. Mix the following ingredients, gently apply the mask to clean, damp skin, and leave it on for 5–10 minutes. Then rinse with warm water.

  • For dry skin: Mix 2 tablespoons of avocado with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil.
  • For combination skin: Heat 3 tablespoons of uncooked rolled oats with 4 tablespoons of milk until the oats are soft. Stir and let cool. Add enough honey to create a sticky, spreadable paste.
  • For oily skin: Mix 1 egg white with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice.

    • 5. Homemade body scrubs

    For each of the following applications, mix the ingredients and then rub vigorously onto the body in circular motions (you can do this in the shower!). Rinse with warm water.

  • Coffee-coconut scrub: Mix ¼ cup of freshly ground coffee with ¼ cup of coconut oil.
  • Chocolate-sugar glaze: Mix 1/4 cup brown sugar with 1/4 cup cocoa powder. Add 3 tablespoons of warm honey and stir to form a paste.
  • Herbal Sea Salt Scrub: Mix 1/4 cup sea salt with 2 dried herbal tea bags and 7 drops of peppermint oil. Add enough carrier oil of your choice (e.g., jojoba, avocado, or coconut oil) to form a paste.

    • Visit the Centara Hotels and Resorts website for more video workouts and expert tips.