Time to take a bath…

We live in a crazy, crazy world.

I don’t know about you but I find it so difficult to switch off. I seem unable to just shut down the computer and walk away. My iPhone or iPad is constantly on googling, reading, emailing etc…It takes a lot of time (and self control) for me to be able to unwind and switch myself in to relax mode.

But one way I find instantly relaxes me is by taking a long, hot bath. I suspect it relaxes me so much because being number one in the clumsy league the idea of taking my iPhone in the bath is a dangerous one. So really it’s the only time (aside from driving but then bluetooth in my car has put a stop to that one) where I can shut out the outside world and be alone.  I’ve just always loved baths, maybe it’s because I’m a Pisces and have a natural affiliation with the water or maybe because there’s just something incredibly indulgent about having a bath.

But the best thing about baths is that they are incredibly good for you – mentally and physically.

Dr. Michael R. Irwin, director of UCLA’s Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology says “When you become present in the moment, a profound relaxation occurs. It actually resets your physiology, regulates some stress hormones, helps with concentration and reduces tension”

When it comes to the physical aspect, taking a bath helps you sleep better, eases skin problems and soothes sore muscles. But you knew that right?

If you’re like me and you love a hot, scented, bubble induced soak here is a great DIY bath soak that will draw out the toxins, lower your stress related hormones, balance your PH levels and help your sleep soundly…

bath detox...

Ole Henriksen recommends soaking in a bath at least once a week to ease common upper back and shoulder tension. To replicate the spa bathing experience at home, he suggests indulging with candles, calming refreshments, soft music and a rolled-up towel for neck support. Add Epsom salt to help take out the body’s stress and strain, a cup of powdered milk and your favorite essential oil blend. Henriksen uses lavender to calm, and rosemary and eucalyptus for aching muscles. Soak, close your eyes, meditate, relax.

Suzi Grant wrote 48 Hours to a Healthier Life and gave a savvy guide on what’s the best bath concoction and how long you should stay in it…

Detoxing

Warm baths – 90-95F or 32-35C – open the pores and encourage sweating, which helps to release toxins. They are good for mild detoxing and slight colds. Warm baths can also help lower blood sugar levels, relieve painful joints and muscles, and help to keep your bowels working properly. 
Soak time: 10-20 minutes.

Stress

If you’re really stressed out, a cold bath can be the perfect answer – but they’re only for the very brave and those in robust health. The temperature needs to be 55-65F, or 12-18C, says Grant. ‘Cold baths are fantastic if you’re full of tension. They do the opposite of hot baths as they thin the blood and increase blood sugar levels.’ 
 Soak time: a quick dip – between six and 30 seconds at the most.

Eczema

For skin conditions such as eczema, hives or rashes, adding some baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to your bath can make a big difference. It acts as a mild antiseptic, {3}opens the pores and relieves itching and skin irritation. Fill the bath with lukewarm water, add about a pound of baking soda and mix well. Soak time: 10-20 minutes.

Relaxation

Sprinkle 3-5lb of sea salt into the water and mix in well for a thoroughly relaxing bath. The cooler the water and the shorter the time spent in the bath, the more it acts as a tonic, says Grant. Soak time: 10-20 minutes.

Colds and headaches

Hot foot baths can help with colds and headaches as well as refreshing tired feet. Pour enough hot water into the bath or a bowl to cover your feet and ankles and add a few drops of an essential oil such as lavender, peppermint, thyme or lemon. Finish by rinsing your feet with cold water. 
Soak time: 10-20 minutes.

Insomnia

“A cold foot bath is absolutely brilliant if you’re insomniac or just sometimes have trouble sleeping,” says Grant. Soak your feet until they start to feel uncomfortably cold. This treatment is also useful for constipation, nose bleeds, tired feet and colds.

What do you like to have in your bath? Any tips or recommendations please do leave below…

Author: Rachael

I'm a journalist and creative consultant. I write about how busy women (just like you) can live, work and eat - better.

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.