Expert advice on how to get the most relaxing effect and pleasure
“Take a bath” is a phrase that sounds relaxing, to say nothing of the procedure itself. It is all the more a pity that today the pleasure of soaking up plenty in a hot, fragrant, foamy bath has moved to the list of optional entertainment for which we simply regret the time.
In our age, when we are used to doing everything in a hurry, justifying the fuss with the ubiquitous urgency and necessity, taking a bath is the highest act of self-care and an unaffordable luxury. The art of taking a bath is gradually disappearing into the category of the lost, which is something it is time to urgently regret and return this pleasant procedure to the weekly routine.
One of the reasons why we don’t take a bath as often as we deserve is that many people don’t know how to do it properly. An expert in aesthetic medicine whose help this material was created, will help to refresh the memory of the right approach.
“Historically, a bath was the norm until the invention of plumbing and the shower in particular, with the advent of which people began to forget how nice it is to take your time and have a good rest in hot water,” the expert comments. “In order to get the proper effect from the bath, it is worth remembering that it is not as simple as plugging in the plug into the outlet – many related factors come into play that should be taken into account in order to make the effect as useful and close to enjoyment as possible.”
It is scientifically proven that hot (but not too hot) baths have healing properties, beneficially affecting the body and soul. Here is a list of the main benefits:
- Detox and cleansing. Hot water opens the pores, causing the body to sweat and release toxins, resulting in clear and healthy skin. After steaming the skin, connect scrubs and masks to the case – those that correspond to your type of epidermis.
- Reducing stress. The feeling of immersion, some weightlessness, the soothing ripple of water, a pleasantly smelling oil or bath foam help to slow down the train of thought and enter into a state of deep relaxation.
- Relief from pain. Hot water at a harmless temperature can lower blood pressure and, in principle, improve blood circulation. Adding sea or Epsom salts to your bath can help relax tense muscles and strained joints, calm the central nervous system, and reduce headaches.
- Reducing the symptoms of a cold. (especially with eucalyptus oil)
- The enveloping warmth of the water stops the development of colds and reduces inflammation. Steam from a hot bath (especially with the addition of eucalyptus oil) relieves swelling in the sinuses and bronchi, freeing breathing.
- Overcoming insomnia. A relaxing bath reduces brain activity, and a gradual decrease in body temperature after a water treatment will help you fall asleep faster.
- One of the first conditions recommended by the expert if you decide to resume the habit of taking baths: choose the right moment, ideally in the evening, announce to your household that you will not be disturbed for at least an hour and retire to the bathroom after turning off the phone.
BATH PREPARATION: WHAT YOU SHOULD TAKE CARE OF
Follow the recommendations of a specialist if you do not know where to start:
- Clean the bathtub with a special product and rinse thoroughly to get rid of chemical residues.
- Turn on the water in advance, do not climb into an empty bath. Sprinkle salt, splash foam, throw a bath bomb into the water. Drip a fragrant oil into the water, such as soothing lavender, if you feel like it. While the water is being collected (and the room is warming up at the same time), prepare everything you need for the procedure.
- Keep the water temperature right for you – it varies from person to person as some people are more sensitive to heat than others. The water should be slightly hot to the touch – the body will get used to it within a minute. Too hot water can cause dizziness, heat stress, and can be harmful to those with heart disease and a predisposition to varicose veins.
- Take a special pillow or rolled up towel and place it at the head of the head to lean back and relax your neck.
- Lay the towels on the pre-heated radiator to keep them deliciously warm when you’re done.
- Place everything you need for the planned procedures on a table (shelf, stool) nearby: scrub, mask, brush, washcloth, etc.
- Light candles (or dim the lights) and play some music to create an atmosphere. Relaxing tunes such as classical, new age or jazz are best.
- Some people like to relax in the bath with their eyes closed, while others need stimulation. Bring whatever you need: book, magazine, tablet, crossword puzzle, Kindle.
- Don’t forget to rehydrate! While swimming, you will lose a lot of water, so you need to replenish it for steps: drink plenty of water during and after the procedure and apply a moisturizer after the bath. Take a large glass of water or a cup of aromatic herbal tea with you to the bathroom.
WHILE YOU ARE IN THE BATH: A RELAXING BREATH
While soaking in the bath, you can make the most of your time and relax even more with a simple yet effective relaxation technique. Breathe slowly and deeply, concentrating on the sounds and sensations of the water. If you haven’t applied a face/hair mask, gently submerge your head in water to flush out distracting thoughts and sounds, creating an absolute oasis of calm in your mind.
Come up and rest your head on a cushion or pillow at the head. Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest, and slowly inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Let your attention accompany the breath, be aware of the air moving in and out of your body. Then bring your attention to the movement of your hands as you inhale. and exhale.
When your mind starts to wander (and it certainly will), jumping to different topics, return your attention to your breath, the warmth of the water and your skin, the movement of your hands. Try to get involved in this process, and after a while you will find yourself in a state of complete peace and tranquility. Spend a few minutes like this and do other things or just relax.
Soak as much as you want, rub yourself with a washcloth, and before you get out of the bath, rinse under a refreshing shower.
