Think a bath is too simple to ease stress?  Think again!

Does a daily bath seem like a leisure-time indulgence?  Did you know that something as simple as an Epsom salt bath can actively help relieve stress?  It’s true!  This simple self-care technique not only feels great but also supports your health.  So, let’s talk stress and solutions!  Let’s talk self-care… I’ve seen the way people roll their eyes when talk shifts to self-care, and I bet you have too. In some ways, self-care feels like a four-letter word because it’s gotten this rap as being something self-ish and self-centered (as if those are always bad things?!)

As a Certified Functional Nutrition & Lifestyle Practitioner, Certified Holistic Health Coach, Aromatherapist, Reiki Master and Laughter Yoga Teacher, I talk to people everyday who are trying to figure out how to relieve stress and live healthier. And one common denominator in most of my clients lives is STRESS!

Of all the burdens on the body, it’s stress that tends to make people feel unwell and stress that perpetuates the cycle of neglected nourishment and neglected self-care. The stigma around self-care is that we’re somehow selfish or self-centered or self-absorbed rather than being giving, nurturing and caring for others in our world.  So, we side-step the basics needed for our own well-being under the guise of being strong and selflessly caring for others. How backwards it is that our perception of self-care can make us feel as though we don’t deserve the same care and compassion that the world expects us to provide for others!

You’re Invited!

I’m going to invite you to stop sabotaging self-care, to re-member yourself, to restore your commitment to your own health and well-being, to nourish and tend to your spirit, your body, your self.

One of my favorite self-care strategies is to soak in a deliciously steamy tub. I love adding Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) and baking soda to create a relaxing, silky soft soak.

Your skin will absorb some of the magnesium from the Epsom salt, which can help relax your muscles; the baking soda may help neutralize bacteria and fungus while calming skin irritation and lifting oil and debris.

Together, the Epsom salt and baking soda create a delightful tub.  Aromatherapy can amplify relaxation.    Adding a few drops of essential oil to the baking soda before stirring it into the water can enhance your experience.  Roman Chamomile and Lavender are my favorite essential oils for relaxation.  A drop of Eucalyptus or Frankincense may be added to ease congestion and support the immune system.

SIMPLE DETOXIFYING EPSOM SALT BATH

2 cups Epsom salts
2 cups Baking Soda
Optional: 5 drops pure essential oil (add these to the baking soda before adding to the bath)

Add the ingredients to a bathtub filled with warm water (not too hot!).  Soak for 20 minutes.

To take it to the next level, dim the lights, set a candle on the counter and turn on your favorite piano music.

Take your time.

Reclaim self-care.

It’s a strategy for health.  It’s nourishing.

Recharge your batteries.  You absolutely deserve it!

P.S. Click here to get more FREE goodies to help you reclaim your health… right now! Some of my best tools will be delivered to your inbox within hours!

P.P.S. You might also be interested in this post…