Thoreau had his Walden Pond, J.D. Salinger his cabin in New Hampshire. Even we less-than-iconic figures crave a private retreat.

  But if you can’t get away from it all, why not transform an ordinary room — your bathroom — into your own spa-like haven? Whether you have thousands and weeks to spend or only tens and hours, rejuvenation is closer than you think.

Major Changes / Spa Vacation

  Few experiences are more relaxing than a soak in a hot bath. In the past few years, tubs have evolved from fixtures to art form. Lovers of all things vintage may find reproduction claw-foot tubs match their taste. But if cutting edge is more your style, choices abound.

  You’ll find walk-in models and tubs that look as if they’re carved from a boulder. Others hold up to 70 gallons of water and sport built-in heating systems. Many come with airjets that offer a gentle bubble massage along with lumbar support and sculpted headrests and armrests. Lately, more and more high-end tubs feature chromo-therapy — a jazzy word for in-bath lighting. With a variety of colors of light — a shade for every mood — and a system that automatically remembers your favorite one, these models make bathing a sensual delight.

  To truly bring a spa feel to your bathroom, consider installing a steam shower or sauna. Intense heat relaxes tired muscles, boosts the immune system, and rids the body of toxins, so this feature is practically a medical necessity. One company, Aquajet Showers, designs steam shower systems ranging in size from 3’ wide x 3’ deep (about the dimensions of a standard corner shower) to 5’x5’. All models include a steam generator, multiple body jets, FM radio and a foot massager. The larger models feature benches and televisions. Prices range from $1900 to $5500.

  If you prefer dry heat to moist, a sauna is the right choice. Smaller models (3.5’ wide x 3.5’ deep) can accommodate one person, while larger models (6’x5’) can host a party. For the latest innovations, look for saunas that use infrared energy, also called radiant heat. These models require much less electricity than standard saunas and allow fresh air to circulate for ventilation and comfort.

  Do-it-yourselfers should check out Heathmate Sauna. With no more than a screwdriver, those with a can-do attitude simply assemble the panels, plug in the sauna, and begin relaxing. Prices range from $2300 to $5000.

Moderate Changes /Weekend Getaway

  Installing a new tub or sauna isn’t the only way to give your loo the spa treatment. Finding the right bathtub or shower accessories as well as adding color, warmth and light also adds dramatic effects.

  To transform your tub into an airbath (the generic term for Jacuzzi), consider purchasing a portable spa bath mat for $100 or less. Although many resemble regular bath mats with an attached back rest, they do much more than prevent slipping: place one in your tub, plug it in, and bubbles course out tiny holes in the mat.

  If showering is more your style, spend $150 or more on a new, deluxe showerhead. Prosparkleit is just one company that sells a variety of rain, jet spray or dual showerheads. Dual showerheads are particularly luxurious, allowing you to shower with a partner or simply to direct water wherever you wish. Many showerheads also come with water-saving features, so you can get clean while being green.

  Choosing serene colors is another way to turn your bathroom into a place to recharge. While tiling an entire wall can be expensive, adding glass tiles in cool blues and greens to a small area, like the vanity backsplash, gives the room a fresh feel without cleaning out your wallet. Even painting the walls a neutral color — say taupe or gray — can make a huge difference. Remember that rooms with trim and walls the same color look larger and feel more unified.

  To heat things up in a small space, purchase a plug-in towel warmer ($60 and up). In a more spacious room, a ventless fireplace adds heat, not to mention a touch of romance. Prices begin around $200.

  Lighting can also transform your bathroom from utilitarian to luxurious. How about a chandelier in place of the ho-hum ceiling light that came with the house? Those drab things flanking the medicine cabinet? Think crystal-drop sconces instead.

Small Changes / Overnight Trip

  Even with a few hours and as many dollars, you can make your bathroom more spa-like. Again, rethink the lighting: install a dimmer, put new shades in muted hues on existing sconces, or place a small table light on the windowsill for a warm glow.

  When choosing accents and accessories, go for natural materials for a zen feel. A woven bamboo window shade offers privacy without blocking out all light, while a cedar bench provides a comfortable place to sit and dry off. A simple, white cotton waffle-weave shower curtain is both lovely and functional.

  Don’t forget that while you’re shutting out the hubbub of the world, there are some sounds you’ll want to invite in. Listen to your favorite tunes by putting an iPod docking station in your bathroom or invest $20 on a multitasking spa candle. Colorfusion makes one that changes color, scents the air with vanilla, and offers six natural sounds from ocean surf to morning birds. That may be worth tossing in a suitcase for a traveling spa!

  Perhaps the best piece of advice for creating your own home spa won’t dent your bank account at all: declutter. Real spas don’t have water-logged magazines from the last century, so neither should yours.

  The real point of any change is to fashion a space where you can relax and recharge. So, whether it’s minor adjustments or major changes, your personal spa is just down the hall. -CL-

That Extra Touch

- Lavender Oil. One drop in your bathwater calms body and mind.

- Aloe vera plant. Gel from the leaves restores moisture to skin.

- Heat pack. Check out American Heatpack for compact, reusable heatpacks that stay warm for 45 minutes   and require no electricity.

- Manicure and Pedicure Kit and all the latest products.

- Plush robe with matching slippers.

- New fluffy towels.