With everything going on in our world, a relaxing and recharging bath is the perfect remedy to bringing yourself back into balance. There’s no denying that the concept of self-care can seem stale with everyone on social media reiterating the importance of it. It can be easy to feel like you have to continuously revise your morning routine or self-care rituals to the point where they feel like just another thing on your to-do list.
I have to be realistic and remind myself that it doesn’t take waking up at 4am to run 5 miles or writing a four page booklet of daily intentions to make a huge difference in my mental and physical well-being. When I’m feeling stressed or just flat out exhausted, I’ve realized it’s better for me to ease up on my commitments and make time to do things that I know will re-energize me. Occasionally, the quickest way to move ahead is to accept that slowing down might need to come first.
The next time you’re feeling burned out or just have sore muscles from an intense workout, turn your phone on silent, pour up a refreshing drink, and reap the restorative benefits of self-care. A 30-minute soak is usually just what the doctor ordered, and we’ve rounded up all the essentials for giving yourself the ultimate relaxing and recharging bath.
Here’s a checklist of all you’ll need to get started…
- Uninterrupted time
- Relaxing music and ambiance
- Scented candles
- Refreshing beverage
- Facial mask
- Essential oil blend
- Moisturizing body butters (for after your bath)
Step #1. Apply a face mask of your choice
Begin by applying your favorite face hydrating or purifying mask, whether it be clay or sheet. A face mask is an amazing way to detox your skin and draw out impurities. Enriched with vitamins and minerals, they gently exfoliate, soothe, and rejuvenate the skin leaving it thoroughly cleaned and ready to welcome your skincare products.
Step #2. Radiate the room with light (and scent)
What’s a bath without candles to set the serene tone? Dim down (or completely turn off) the lights to create the perfect spa-like ambiance. You can find our favorite candles that transmit soothing smells here and here.
Step #3. Add an essential oil to your bath water
Aromatherapy is a great addition to a calming bath. Eucalyptus, lavender, sandalwood, rose, or chamomile will help calm and ease your mind after a long day. Eucalyptus oil, specifically, has many immunity benefits and is known to help ease any sinus problems. Plus, it’s a great for relieving any joint and muscle aches! Add about 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oil to your water and let your senses be awakened and invigorated.
Step #4. Play relaxing music
As we all know, music has a variety of healing components that alleviate tension and lift moods. Get the most out of your soak by turning on some tunes that’ll guide you through to the next level of relaxation. Making bath time a regular ritual is key to resetting, rejuvenating, and clearing your mind. Designate it as your sacred space to wash off the weekly stresses and indulge in a bit of escapism. Your mental, emotional, and physical being will thank you.