THE HEALING BATH

Whether you work out of an office or in the spare bedroom of your home, stress is bound to find you. Deadlines, ringing phones, chores, traffic, and errands all take their toll by the end of the day---every day!Instead of shutting down with a martini, or becoming mesmerized in front of the television, why not regroup and turn yourself back "on" .... How?, By slipping into something comfortable....your bathtub.The bathtub is simple, a wonderful invention which many take for granted. Usually equipped with a showerhead, many choose a quick wash and rinse under it's spray and out the door we go. This "drive-by" form of bathing may get you clean, but can produce stress in itself, if you just run in and out to get the job done. You would think that the reason the tub is there is solely to catch the drips from air-drying laundry.The idea of healing mind, body, and soul in the bath is not a new concept. The ancient Romans knew how to do it better than any.others. Beginning with an oil massage and exercise period, most Romans spent a relaxing afternoon at the public bath, either socializing or reading. After visiting the hot, steamy rooms of the caldarium, it was time for the actual bath. First in hot water, then a final rinse in the cold water. Like the Romans, the Greeks and Turks used bathing as a healing tool. The tradition of therapeutic bathing whether hot or cold, was kept alive in the luxurious spas in Europe.A long soak in a hot bathtub for 20 minutes immersed in soothing warmth can calm the mind and balance the emotions. Also, a hot bath before bed can put insomnia to sleep!! Other benefits include easing muscle strain, reducing hemorrhoids, arthritis pain relief, increasing circulation and promote elimination of impurities via the skin.Cold baths can relieve itchy skin, mild depression, asthma and, contrary to popular belief, rev up your waning libido.There are all sorts of bath salts, gels and a multitude of minerals, algae, seaweed preparations , and aroma therapeutic products available. Why not try a variety and find out just what works best for you.
Tip...Detox the skin by bathing in Epsom salt or baking soda at least weekly