Elevate your bath ritual
There’s nothing I love more than a soak in the tub. However, if you’re just ‘bathing’, you’re doing it wrong. These 6 steps will give your evening ritual a new meaning.
Spruce up your bathroom
By creating a tranquil space, you’re halfway there. Beautifying your bathroom is easy and doesn’t need to equate to having an affair with someone in construction. From fresh flowers and scented candles to gorgeous mirrors, making your bathroom feel luxurious doesn’t cost a fortune. A few elegant touches will go a long way. My favourite? An orchid and three gorgeous scented candles.
Upgrade your bath products
Save the soap for your husband or S/O and splurge on new bath accessories for yourself. Invest in testing new bath salts, oils, foam bath and body wash. Rituals is my favourite brand when it comes to creating a bath time experience. Remember, it’s not about getting clean, it’s a form of self-care too.
Don’t forget the entertainment
Whether it’s a love story or this month’s Vogue, your guilty-pleasure reading is perfect for bath time. If bath time is reserved for music, install your Alexa in your bathroom so that you can listen to your favourite songs, podcasts or meditation. My favourite bath time meditation app? Insight Timer which is available for download from the App Store.
Use your bath time for TLC
Apply a face or hair mask while you wash, shave or soak. Another way to beautify in the bath is to exfoliate. Opt for a nice washcloth rather than a grainy scrub (the grains will collect on the floor of the tub—not a pleasant experience to clean!). Massage your limbs in small, upward circles. This will make your skin softer while stimulating circulation. Massage your belly and lower back in a clockwise circle to aid digestion.
Add a cup of crack
Ok, it’s not real crack but it sure feels that way. I love to add good ol’ Epsom salt to my bath. According to the National Institutes of Health, magnesium promotes health and muscle function, regulates insulin levels, supports normal blood pressure and is used to treat migraine headaches. Add 2 cups per bath and soak for at least 10 to 20 minutes to reap the benefits. I do this once to twice a week.
Do not disturb
Make your family or housemates aware of the fact that bath time is alone time. This is where you unwind and have a moment in your day to yourself. I like to turn my phone on silent, close the door and focus on meditation. By doing this, my bath ritual is far more beneficial as it truly feels like I have taken a proper ‘break’ from my busy day.