There is just something so warm and comforting about a bath. Bathing is still a favoured practice, especially in today's fast-paced and stressful world. It's essential to prioritise self-care and find those moments of peace. Beyond the physical benefits of cleansing, baths have long been revered for their therapeutic benefits and ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and provide a much-needed escape from the demands of everyday life. Below, we've listed the steps on how to create your own perfect self-soothing environment so you can feel calm and rejuvenated.
Step 1 Creating the Perfect Environment:
Set the Mood: Create a soothing cosy atmosphere in your bathroom. Dim the lights or light some candles to create a soft, warm glow. Try using essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus, known for their relaxing properties.
Choose the Right Water Temperature: Opt for warm water. A hot bath helps promotes relaxation and helps ease tension in the muscles. It’s also known to benefit the nervous system — soaking in a hot bath will not only raise your body temperature but also increase your production of melatonin.
Add some bath additives: This can range from bath salts, bubbles, or bath oils. Adding these to the water gives a touch of luxury. Epsom salts are particularly beneficial, as they contain magnesium that can help soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation.
Mindful music or silence: Select calming music or nature sounds to create a peaceful ambiance during your bath. Alternatively, enjoy the tranquillity of silence and focus on the sounds of the water and your own breath as you relax.
Step 2 Soaking:
Disconnect: Switch off your phone devices or put it on silent mode to minimise distractions.
Mindfulness meditation: Engage in mindfulness techniques. Focus on the warm water and the scent of the essential oils. This will help make you feel extra relaxed and be present in the moment.
Pamper yourself: Take advantage of this time to care for yourself. Use exfoliating scrubs, moisturising masks, or luxurious bath oils to nourish your skin. Treat yourself to a mini spa experience within the comfort of your own home.
Step 3 Aftercare:
Hydrate: Drinking a glass of water after your bath will help rehydrate your body and replenish any fluids lost.
Gentle Stretching: Consider incorporating gentle stretches or a short yoga session after your bath. This can help release any remaining tension in your muscles and promote a sense of overall well-being.
If you don’t have a bath don’t fret adding some deep relaxing oils to your chest before a shower helps scent the bathroom and promotes relaxation when showering. Don’t forget to dim the lights and add some candles too.
Products we recommend adding to your bathing ritual:
Scully’s Rose Bath Salts
The Body Shop Wild Argan Oil Bubbling Bath
LUSH Dirty Perfume Bubble Bottle
The Body Shop Strawberry Bath Bomb
Scully’s Lavender Bath Salts
Lush Oil On Troubled Water Bath Oil
Lush Magnificent Bath Oil