The Art of Taking a Bath

There’s a lot more to be gained by taking a long, hot soak than you might imagine.

Why do we take a bath ?   To remove the day’s grime from our bodies ?  To take some time out and relax ?   Adding lotions and potions all telling us they will make us feel a certain way ?

The ancient Roman’s understood the benefits of bathing, in fact it was very much a social ritual for them.  Their use of public baths bought different generations together, they also provided a time to purify the mind, body and soul. Bathing in those times was an unhurried affair, time was taken to indulge the senses with herbs, heat, coolness and oils.

So how can you discover the benefits and healing powers of your bath-time?

Forget the Sunday night bath before school or work;  Forget having to share bath water with other family members;  Instead think about how some simple preparations can turn a simple bath-time into a luxury pampering experience.

• Choosing the right moment is important, ideally in the quieter part of your evening
• Turn off your phones and lock the bathroom door so you don’t get disturbed
• Clear out any clutter from your bathroom, but make sure to keep a good read nearby
• Get a small pillow, rolled up towel or flannel to cushion your neck
• Put your toiletries, shampoos and conditioners in easy reach
• Place your towels on a warm radiator so they are warm and cosy when you need them (especially in winter time)

Prepare your time by choosing some soothing music, light a few candles, maybe a cup of tea…..or if you feel like…. a cocktail or a glass of bubbly for a touch of glamour!

Allow yourself to be decadent and create the ultimate spa;

Use essential oils to nourish the skin, a natural fibre brush or maybe even a body scrub to wake up the body.  A face mask will clear out your pores and a hair mask can restore lost moisture and shine to your crowning glory.  All of these make up the perfect ingredients to help you feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

AND THEN BREATHE…………

Whilst you wait for these aromatherapy and beauty treatments to work their magic, you might as well use your time wisely and relax with a very basic, yet very effective relaxation technique.

Breath slowly and fully, concentrating on the sounds and sensations of the water.   If it’s possible for you, and you don’t have a face or hair mask on, then gently submerge your head, this will lift your senses and block out external sounds, creating an oasis of calm in your bathroom.

Place one had on your stomach and other on your chest, breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.  Allow your breathing to be just the way it is, not trying to adjust it, simply allowing your attention to accompany your breath as it enters and leaves your body.  Then bring your attention to the movement of your hands as you breath in……and out…….

When your mind wanders (and it will) bring it back to the breath, the warmth of the water on your skin, the movement of your hands.

As best you can embrace and engage with the experience, and in no time you will find yourself in state of pure peace, calmness and tranquillity.

Health Benefits

Hot or warm baths are scientifically proven to have medicinal qualities, restoring your body and your soul.  Here are a few other benefits

• Detox and Cleanse
• Reduce stress
• Help to manage headaches
• Lower blood pressure
• Calm muscle pain
• Relieve skin conditions
• Improve blood circulation
• Reduce cold symptoms (especially with eucalyptus oil)
• Alleviate sleeplessness

Remember:  The bath should not be too hot, this can cause dizziness, heat stress and can be detrimental to those of you with a heart condition.

………and don’t forget to rehydrate!  You will lose a lot of water whilst soaking, so you need to take on some fluids, inside and outside, drink plenty of water and slap on plenty of a good quality moisturiser.

What if you have a shower, and not a bath…..then call in a favour from a friend and see if you can hijack their bathroom for a few hours……..  it’ll be worth it….Namaste