Feeling tense? Struggling with a hectic schedule? A few moments of self-care can do wonders for you. Here are some ways to plan blissful, rejuvenating moments of relaxation with Québec-made products—plus a few extra tips to help you really unwind.

1. Soothe your body and mind with aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses the power of essential oils to calm the senses. These gentle scents create a peaceful atmosphere that helps you unwind, find balance, and soothe your body and mind.
As you breathe in the scent of essential oils, receptors in your nose send signals to your brain. For instance, inhaling the scent of lavender oil works as a muscle relaxant; this can help to relieve menstrual cramps.
In addition to inhaling the scent directly, you can use a diffuser or put a few drops of essential oil in your bath. Choose oils with calming properties, such as chamomile or rose—there’s truly nothing better to relieve stress.
As with many other health products, you should take certain precautions when using essential oils. Never apply them directly to your skin without proper dilution, and avoid ingesting them without consulting a health care professional.
Also, make sure you always:
- Mix them with a carrier oil if you want to apply them to your skin (the recommended dilution rate varies depending on the oil and its intended use)
- Read the warnings and pay attention to contraindications (pregnancy, drug interactions, etc.)
Recommended products:
- Lotus Aroma True Lavender NPN Essential Oil, 15 ml
- Lotus Aroma USB Ultrasonic Essential Oil Diffuser
Breathing exercises and meditation, for better relaxation
When the soothing vapours of essential oils envelop you, it’s the perfect time to take your relaxation even deeper. An easy and incredibly effective method is to practise breathing exercises. There are many techniques, but the basic principle is simple: focus entirely on your breath.
If you want to immerse yourself even more in the present moment, turn your breathing exercise into a deeper meditation. Need some help getting started? There are many free and paid apps that provide guided meditation sessions. All you have to do is choose!
2. Create a home spa in 5 easy steps
Take a break from the daily bustle by turning your bathroom into a home spa.
- Light a candle to create a calming atmosphere.
- Put on some soft music.
- Run a hot bath.
- Add bubble bath, bath salts, or a few drops of essential oils.
- Now take the time to meditate and breathe.
A warm bath is a perfect way to open up your pores and get your skin ready for treatment. A massage is a great way to take your relaxation to the next level. Ask a loved one to help, or try a self-massage.It’s a great way to ease muscle tension and promote a good night’s sleep.
Recommended product:
Music for deeper relaxation
This moment of calm in your home spa is the perfect time to sink even more deeply into your self-care cocoon. What better way than by putting on headphones and tuning out the outside world?
Everyone’s musical taste is different; what’s soothing to one person may not be to another. If you’re looking for inspiration, try one of the many internet radio stations that play relaxing music (do a search for “relaxation internet radio”).
3. Self-care from head to toe
Whether it’s part of your daily routine or reserved for special moments, taking time for self-care at home is an essential way to decompress and step away from everyday stress.
Body care is more than a relaxing ritual; it also nourishes and restores your skin, leaving you feeling glowing and refreshed. Take the extra step and prolong your sense of well-being.
- Start by taking the time to exfoliate and cleanse your skin.
- Next, use your favourite products to pamper your face, body, hair, and hands.
- Don’t neglect your feet: they’re absolutely essential.
- Finish it all off with a cup of herbal tea in front of your favourite TV show.
Recommended products:
- Zorah Nyxe Cream Mask, 100 ml
- Karine Joncas Youth Glow Mask with Collagen
- Lotus Aroma Foot Care Repair Balm with Natural AHA
Herbal teas to reduce stress
Many herbs, roots, and flowers can help you sleep more soundly, unwind, or simply feel calmer. And the positive effect is double: Hot tea gives you the combined benefits of the plant’s natural properties as well as the comfort of sipping a hot drink.
Important: Infusions may contain ingredients that interact with certain medications. Don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist to help you choose a product that’s right for you.
Self-care with Québec products
Taking the time to relax is important for your well-being, stress management, and mental health. And if you can do all this while supporting the local economy, so much the better!
Want to support local businesses? Check out the beauty section of our flyer and look for the “Produit du Québec,” “Fabriqué au Québec,” and “Conçu au Québec” labels. You can also visit one of our stores to browse Québec cosmetics.
More tips to help you find your calm and restore balance
How to relax before bed
The hours leading up to bedtime are perfect for adopting these relaxation techniques. They prepare your body for sleep and help you have a deeper, more restful night.
After your warm bath (surrounded by the soothing scent of essential oils) and your favourite beauty routine, put away your phone, tablet, and other screens. Studies show that blue light from screens affects sleep quality. Lose yourself in a good book instead, or spend some quality time with your family.
De-stressing through physical activity
Physical activity is a powerful tool for promoting relaxation. Regular exercise not only enhances the quality and duration of your sleep, it also boosts your mood by reducing stress. Plus, it offers the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your family!
Walking, swimming, cycling, hockey or basketball with the kids: the type of exercise matters less than simply being active. But remember: it’s recommended to finish exercising at least three to four hours before bedtime to ensure it doesn’t interfere with your sleep.
Relaxation and health go hand in hand
Better sleep, less stress, and a more positive mood: these are just a few of the many good reasons to set aside a little time each day to relax and recentre. After all, relaxation is essential to good health.
Last updated on March 6, 2025

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