Tips for an elevated bath routine

Get the bubble bath out!

Using beauty as a form of self-care isn’t a new concept. Ancient Roman bathhouse ruins are beautiful even years later and filled with mosaics and architecture rarely seen in modern buildings. They used fragrance in their baths comprised of herbs and flowers. Bathing was a ritual and something to make time for.

Nowadays we often have to make do with a quick shower before running out the door! Much like eating, beauty and wellness is something to do on the go. It’s not even an afterthought, it’s just another thing to get out of the way before moving on to the important stuff.

As a teenager, my dad was constantly bemused by the time I took bathing, applying facemasks, and exfoliating my skin. However busy I was throughout the week; I would always make time for it. Although not a chore, I genuinely used the time to regroup. I spent money on cheap bubble baths and slathered on the various body creams I would inevitably save up from birthday and Christmas gifts.

What if the ancient Romans and my former teenage life were onto something? Should we take time out of our busy week and use bathing as a way to slow down and recuperate? It feels strangely selfish to spend half an hour a week languishing in the bath.

For an elevated beauty bath routine:

A sustainable aromatherapy candle will help set the mood, this relaxing lavender and orange one is a favourite. It’s made from soy and essential oils which are much more pleasant than the petrochemicals and synthetic fragrances often found in candles. For more candle recs, try organic candles.

Adding bath salts and essential oils will detox you and leave you feeling balanced. This blend of Himalayan pink salt, Dead sea salt and Epsom salts is perfect for removing toxins while you soak in the bath.

While waiting for the bath to run, try dry brushing. It’s incredibly easy to incorporate into your routine and the difference in the skin is noticeable. Use swift firm strokes on the legs and arms upwards towards the heart. And clockwise on the stomach.

Use the time while you are soaking to apply a facemask. I haven’t tried these clay masks from Blushberry Botanicals, however, they look lovely. They come as a dry powder which you can mix up with a splash of water.

It’s pretty easy to make a body scrub at home that you can use in the bath. Fill a jar with sugar, add olive oil and a few drops of your favourite essential oil to ensure glowing skin. I love rose essential oil but orange is great for revitalising the body and lavender is relaxing.

Finally, I have my eye on these towels. They use less cotton, favouring bamboo instead which uses less water in the manufacturing process.

Fancy more reading? What about a week in April?

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Images belong to the brands mentioned and also stock images used.