Even though January is out of the way, cold nights, busy AF work schedule and the winter gym arc is taking it out of us. We're still in hibernation mode and our homes are calling us to spend more time snuggled down in there, plus there’s something undeniably luxurious about a self-care night done right. But we aren't slobbing around in old t shirts, eating ice cream straight from the tub (well, you can because no judgement for what makes you happy here) but instead changing into some silky pyjamas, lighting a bougie candle and cooking something delicious.

Step 1: Set the Vibe

Before we even think about starting some self-care, we need to set the mood. Creating an environment that feels luxurious is just as important as the activities themselves.

Lighting: Swap harsh overhead lights for candles or sidelights with or warm-hued bulbs from Phillips. The goal? A soft, flattering glow that feels soothing and cozy. Diptyque, Jo Malone, and Byredo candles are classics that we have on rotation.

Sound: Curate a playlist that sets the tone, we love a jazz-infused cafe playlist, Ibiza chillout, or even a chill classical playlist. If you want something more immersive, play rain sounds or ocean waves in the background.

Scents: A good scent is a non-negotiable for us. You can go with essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and bergamot that instantly create a mood relaxing atmosphere. Diffuse them in a ceramic diffuser or add a few drops to your pulse points. Or if you want something with more depth, the blends from Neom are the ones we reach for every time.

The Outfit: Forget your ex's old hoody this is a silk pyjama, matching robe, and fluffy socks kind of night. If you want to go full luxury, brands like Olivia von Halle, or The White Company make incredible sleepwear and are available for delivery in Dubai in 2 hours, so you can order at your desk for a selfcare night that evening.

Step 2: Cook a Wholesome, Good-for-You Meal

Self-care isn't just about skincare—it starts from the inside out. Nourishing your body with a delicious, homemade meal is one of the best ways to treat yourself.

Choose Something Nourishing: We're looking for comforting, easy to make, delicious and packed with goodness. A warming soup, crunchy salad, or tray bake can all be made more interesting with toppings, parmesan, seed mix, tahini or balsamic drizzle, think colour and flavour to hit the right mix. If you're looking for something easy in the air fryer, you can't go wrong with one of these dishes.

Make the Cooking Process Enjoyable: Pour yourself a glass of wine or a herbal tea and put on a good playlist. Cooking should feel as therapeutic as the meal itself.

Presentation Matters: We're all so used to eating out of a plastic container (Deliveroo addiction anyone?) so it's time to make the effort tonight. Plate your meal in a ceramic dish, light a candle, and sit down to enjoy it without answering emails or watching TikToks. Bonus points if you add a linen napkin and your best cutlery for the full effect.

Pair It With Something Different: A glass of wine, kombucha in a coupe glass, or a sparkling water will make it feel even more special.

Step 3: Wash The Day Off

A shower is fine, but a bath? That’s where the magic happens.

The Water: If you have a tub, run a bath and add something extra, Epsom salts for muscle relaxation and getting rid of water retention, a hydrating bath oil (like Susanne Kaufmann or Jo Malone), or a silky bath milk for that cloud-like softness.

The Extras: To take things up a notch, float some rose petals in the water (it’s dramatic, but who cares?), or drop in a luxury bath bomb from Lush or Fresh. If you need some extra lymphatic drainage, dry brush from toe to head with a natural bristle brush. Use a hydrating face mask during your bath or shower or place a warm face cloth over your face for a DIY steam facial. And take a moment for your hair with a scalp scrub, deep conditioning mask and a head massage.

No Tub? No Problem: A shower can still be a moment. Hang some fresh eucalyptus or drop in a shower steamer like these from Beauty by Earth or Ouai. Use a body scrub (like Aesop or Nécessaire), followed by a rich, oil-based body wash for the ultimate shower experience.

Step 4: The Post Bath Glow

Now that you’re fully relaxed, it’s time to lock in the skin glow.

Body Skincare: We don't give our bodies the same care as our faces, so let's change that. After patting your skin dry, layer a lightweight body serum or oil first (like Augustinus Bader or Osea) before applying a luxurious body cream or all natural shea butter. The double-layering technique ensures deep hydration and gives skin that lit-from-within glow.

Face Skincare: Keep it simple but effective:

  • Toning pads: A gentle, lightly peeling pad to remove built up oil or visible pores.
  • Serum: Choose one based on your skin needs, hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for glow, or peptides for anti-aging.
  • Moisturizer: Something rich and hydrating.
  • Face Oil: The finishing touch for glass skin.

Hands & Feet: Don’t neglect them! Lather on a hand cream (like Aesop Resurrection Hand Balm) and a foot cream before slipping on socks to seal in the moisture.

Step 5: The Wind-Down

Now that you look (and feel) your absolute best, it’s time to unwind in the most relaxing way possible.

Reading Material: Instead of doom scrolling, flick through a coffee table book, a fashion magazine, a novel that feels like an escape or dare we say it, build your ideal wardrobe list on Ounass or Bloomingdales. If you need recommendations, Joan Didion, Eve Babitz, and Ottessa Moshfegh always deliver.

Subtle Sipping: Whether it’s a chilled glass of champagne, a calming herbal tea, or a matcha latte, having a something by your side to sip on.

Low-Effort Entertainment: If you’re in the mood for TV, we recommend opting for a feel-good movie, a nostalgic rom-com, or a classic. Some foolproof options? Mamma Mia, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days or The Thomas Crown Affair

Sleep Prep: Because if we're going through all this effort, you's best be sure that we're looking to have the best nights sleep to end it off. Swap in a silk pillowcase if you don't have one already (Slip or LilySilk), spritz a pillow mist or use a Neom diffuser in your bedroom with the Perfect Night's Sleep fragrance.

Step 6: The Extra Touches

If you want to take things even further, and honestly the answer here for us is always 'why not':

At Home Massage: If you really want to up that post bath glow. Silk Eye Mask – Because we're blocking out lights and any negativity.
Journal Your Thoughts – Clear your mind before bed.
Luxe Room Spray – A quick spritz of Diptyque Baies never hurt anyone. Fresh Sheets - Because nothing feels better than sliding into crisp, white bedding.

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