Buzz
Sometimes, just imagining a luxurious bath is enough to give you the motivation to push through a long day. When the time to relax finally arrives, create the best experience for yourself. Lighting candles, playing soft music, and adding essential oils or bubble bath scents will create an incredibly peaceful atmosphere. Take your time soaking in the water, close your eyes for a few minutes, or enjoy flipping through your favorite magazine.
Steps
Prepare the Bathtub
Start by cleaning the bathtub to ensure the best experience. You won’t be able to relax if you're bathing in a dirty tub. Even after cleaning the tub, take a moment to wipe away any dust or stray hairs that might have gathered.
- Also, it's a good idea to wipe down the tub after each bath, as this helps prevent soap scum and residue from building up over time.
Pour hot water into the bathtub while preparing other items. The water should be hot enough to produce visible steam, but not so hot that you can't dip your hand in. Don't forget to close the drain plug before running water into the tub!
- You can always add more hot water during your bath if you want the water to stay warmer.
Warning: If you are pregnant, it is recommended to bathe in warm water rather than hot water. If the water temperature exceeds 39°C or you feel dizzy, exit the tub and wait for the water to cool down before continuing your bath.
Add bubble bath or bath bombs for a therapeutic fragrance experience. You can either make your own bubble bath, bath bombs, or purchase them from a store. Bubble bath will give you a fun and relaxing bath experience with bubbles, while bath bombs will turn your tub into a dazzling, colorful display.
- Pour 1/8 cup (30 ml) of bubble bath into the tub as the water runs. The flow of water will dissolve the bubble bath and create foam.
Use essential oils to help your body relax and clear your sinuses. Add 6-8 drops of essential oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil, and pour this mixture into the tub after the water has filled up.
- Eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils are great for relieving nasal congestion.
- Lavender essential oil has a very relaxing scent.
- Lemon and rosemary essential oils can help improve your mood.
Warning: Avoid using cinnamon, clove, musk, and tea tree essential oils in the bathtub, as they may cause skin irritation.
Relax your muscles with Epsom bath salts. Add 2 cups (473 g) of Epsom salt to your bathtub. Pour the salt in while the water is running to help it dissolve more quickly. You can also stir with your hand to dissolve any remaining salt, then soak in the tub for about 15-20 minutes for maximum relaxation.
- Your body will absorb magnesium and sulfate from the salt, which help relax your joints and muscles.
Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
Create a relaxing playlist to play during your bath. To unwind, avoid fast or upbeat music. Choose instrumental tracks or background music that creates a calm, serene effect.
- Many music channels offer pre-made playlists or collections of relaxing tunes. You can search for "relaxing music" to find them.
Tip: Try searching for "zen," "yoga," or "meditation" music. These tracks will help you clear your mind and achieve relaxation.
Tidy up the space to make the room feel more organized. Clear away dirty clothes, cosmetics, toys, and anything else cluttering the bathroom shelves. Place them in drawers if needed, or move them to another room. Don't let yourself feel stressed by the sight of things that need tidying up while you're soaking in the bath!
- If possible, spend 10-15 minutes tidying the bathroom before your bath. This will make it easier for you to relax.
Use a bathtub caddy to keep your items dry. You’ll have a convenient place to set your drinks, snacks, books, and other items. Place the caddy over the tub as the water fills, arranging your things on it so that everything is ready by the time the tub is full.
- You can purchase a bathtub caddy with holders for books or magazines, slots for wine glasses, and many other features.
Dim the lights and light candles to create a more peaceful atmosphere. Overhead lights that are too bright can disrupt your relaxation, so consider lowering the lights or turning them off completely. Place candles on the shelf above the tub or around the edge if there’s room.
- If you’ve already used essential oils or scented bubble bath, opt for unscented candles. Otherwise, light a scented candle of your choice to enjoy its fragrance while you bathe.
- After your bath, be sure to check that all candles are extinguished.
Let your family know not to disturb you while you’re in the bath. If you live with family and need some quiet time to unwind, make sure to inform them in advance that you need some space to yourself. If you have young children, ask your spouse or a friend to look after them for about half an hour so you can have some time alone.
- If you have pets, be sure to close the bathroom door while you bathe; otherwise, they may come in and disrupt your peaceful space!
Relax in the Bathtub
Apply a facial mask to care for your skin before entering the bath. You can make your own mask at home or buy one from the store. If you have long hair, tie it back so it doesn’t get in the way.
- You can create a DIY mask from ingredients like avocado, honey, olive oil, coconut oil, and even egg whites.
Savor a glass of wine and indulge in your favorite snacks while soaking in the tub. Take this opportunity to treat yourself to something special that you wouldn't normally enjoy. Chocolate or candy are two of the most popular bath-time snacks, but feel free to pick whatever you like! Just avoid snacks that might crumble into the bath water.
- If you don't drink wine, you can opt for another drink! Sparkling water is delicious and comes in many flavors. You could also enjoy coffee or tea, but be careful not to let hot drinks burn you.
Spoil yourself with a good book or an interesting magazine. Prepare a book you've been meaning to read but haven’t had the time for, or pick up a fascinating magazine and enjoy some private entertainment during this moment of relaxation.
- Make sure to have a dry towel nearby to wipe your hands, so you don't wet your book or magazine.
Use a body scrub to exfoliate and moisturize your skin after a long day. You can buy a pre-made scrub or make your own at home. While soaking in the tub, take about 2 to 3 tablespoons (30 to 45 ml) of scrub and apply it to your arms and legs with circular motions, then rinse off.
- You can use the scrub anytime during your bath, but if you don’t want to sit in scrub residue, it’s best to use it near the end of your soak.
Pat yourself dry with a clean and soft towel after your bath. Before you step into the tub, grab a fresh towel and place it beside the tub. This way, you won’t have to reuse a damp towel from earlier in the day.
- Consider designating a special towel just for your relaxing baths. It will last longer and add to the special atmosphere of your self-care routine.
Tip: To keep your towel soft and smooth, use less detergent and dry it for a shorter time than you would with regular towels and clothes.
Tip
- If you dislike the cold sensation of the porcelain against your skin, invest in a waterproof pillow to place in the bath.
Warning
- If you feel dizzy while bathing, be careful when stepping out of the tub, as hot water may affect your blood pressure.
Things You Need
Prepare the Bathtub
- Clean towel
- Cleaning tools (optional)
- Bubble bath
- Bath bomb
- Essential oils
- Carrier oil
- Epsom salts
Create a Relaxing Atmosphere
- Music player
- Bathtub tray
- Candles
- Matches or lighter
Relax in the Bathtub
- Face mask
- Food and drinks
- Book or magazine
- Body scrub
- Towel
