Whether you’ve had a long and difficult day or you just need some time out to yourself, having a bath is one of the best ways to switch off and unwind. In particular, a bath before bedtime can help you to feel relaxed enough to achieve a good night’s sleep, even if you’ve had a stressful day.
However, just slipping into a bath of warm water certainly isn’t making the most of your me-time. There’s a whole host of extras you can add to make your next bath the best one yet. Take a look at what you can do to maximize your time in the tub.
Create the right ambience
Most commonly, baths are run to help you feel relaxed and to take your mind off everything, as they give you a chance to shut yourself in the bathroom and enjoy even just half an hour of time to yourself. With that in mind, it’s important to create the right ambiance to help you set the mood.
If you’re hoping to achieve a calming environment, consider lighting candles instead of turning the light on, and look for some quiet music you can play in the background. For some people, reading a book or watching an episode of something can also play an important role.
You could even take it a step further and treat yourself to a hot chocolate or glass of wine, and don’t forget to tell members of your household that you’re not to be disturbed!
Add some bath salts
Bath salts have some great benefits to enhance your bath and really help you make the most of your 30 minutes or so. Pouring a cup of Westlab bath salts into the water can contribute to feeling relaxed, but there are different types to choose from.
Epsom bath salts have been known to help sore, aching muscles, while Dead Sea and Himalayan bath salts are great for caring for your skin and making sure you feel cleansed. Look for products that are 100% natural and take advantage of the chance to nourish your skin as you sit back and relax.
Try essential oils
Essential oils can add beautiful scents to your bath which can have a great effect if you’re hoping to unwind, but it’s important to add them correctly. Essential oils can be strong so choose wisely, and steer clear of oils like clove, oregano and spearmint which can be irritating to the skin. Instead, look for oils such as lavender and chamomile that are much more calming. Never put essential oils directly into the bath – this can irritate the skin. They need to be blended with a carrier such as oil or salt first.
If you look carefully, you’ll be able to find bath salts with essential oils already added, creating the perfect product for your bathing experience.
Give your skin some TLC
Restore your skin by taking the opportunity to exfoliate, which will leave your skin feeling smooth and soft by the time you’re finished. Why not set up a self-massage session and use the salts as a natural exfoliant after you’ve enjoyed a relaxing, warm bath and cleansed your skin.
The combination of a bath to soften your skin and then the use of bath salts will make it much easier to exfoliate, which will help to retain your skin’s healthy glow. Use an exfoliating mitt or glove and buff your skin to gradually improve its appearance, and over time you’ll notice a big difference!
Get the time and temperature right
It’s usually advised that you spend at least 15-20 minutes in the bath to really reap the benefits, with many people spending around half an hour in the water before it begins to cool. It’s also important to consider the temperature of your bath to ensure maximum comfort and relaxation. Anywhere between 37 and 39 degrees is often considered the optimum, but it can be up to personal preference and what feels right for you.
Once you’re done and you feel suitably relaxed, don’t forget that fluffy towel and a cozy cotton bathrobe for afterward!
