It’s that time of year, and if you’re like most people, you’re feeling the holiday rush. Take a break for yourself and enjoy a long, mood-changing soak in an herbal bath. Luxurious and decadent, soothing and calming or just rejuvenating – there are herbal bath add-in for all purposes. Bathing in water infused with the goodness of herbs, essential oils and other healthful ingredients is a wonderful, healing way to care for yourself. Something we all should do more of!
Bath salts are a wonderful option and each salt has it’s own properties for enhancing health. Epsom Salts contain magnesium which can help to relax, relieve stress and soothe muscles; while Himalayan Salts draws out toxins, improves circulation, deep cleanses and leaves you with baby-soft skin.
Floating bath oils are a luxurious & tranquil choice, which will moisturize and leave your skin smelling amazing. A few of my favorites:
- Lemon & Sweet Orange: Benefits oily skin and creates a happy, uplifting mood. (Caution- not if you go right out into the sun)
- Jasmine: Helps dry, sensitive skin and soothes the emotions creating a sense of hopefulness.
- Ylang Ylang: Benefits all skin types, is calming to the nervous system and acts as an aphrodisiac.
Remember to use caution, as essential oils are extremely powerful. They need to be diluted before use and used in correct concentrations. For each ounce of carrier oil, mix 1 – 15 drops of the essential oils of your choice. A teaspoon or two in your warm bath and you’re on your way to bliss.
Another option is steeped baths made with leaves & flowers. Any combination of herbs that you fancy is the perfect bath for you! Some options:
- Rose Petals & Buds: Calm & soothe the heart while relieving inflammation and toning the skin.
- Lavender Blossoms: Cleansing and relaxing inducing a sense of calm.
- Elder Flowers: Relieve inflammation while toning and cleaning the skin.
- Rosemary Leaf: Relieves fatigue and is a cleaning tonic for the skin.
To create an herbal bath, combine a handful of each herb you desire in a large pot. Fill with water, heat to almost boiling and make sure you keep a lid on the pot so the volatile oils do not evaporate. Remove the pot for heat and let infuse for no less that 20 minutes. Strain the liquid into your filled tub and you’re ready to go. The other option is to fill a cloth or muslin bag with your herbal concoction. Fill the bath with the hottest water you have, leave until water is at your desired temperature and get right in.
A lovely thirty minutes of relaxation can greatly affect how you’re going to deal with the rest of your day. So switch off your mind & go enjoy one of life’s little pleasures.
Happy Holidays!