The Therapeutic Bath

Taking a bath can be therapeutic in many ways. The most common therapeutic bath is for sore muscles and usually has Epsom salts and sometimes relaxing essential oils such as lavender or patchouli. Mineral salt from the Dead Sea in Israel has become popular for relaxation and detoxification. An excellent mineral bath product is Batherapy from Queen Helen products. For a bath to sooth sore muscles it must be hot., increasing hot water as you sit in the tub will get you acclimated to the hot water. Of course, hot baths are not appropriate for children.

For a cold, a hot bath with mustard bath is wonderful. My favorite brand is Dr. Singha's Mustard Bath - "Original Formula with powdered Mustard Seed, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Wintergreen and Thyme." The minute you step into this bath you feel less congested and can breath better. I love the smell too, strong but not overpowering. Dr. Singha's Mustard Bath is probably available in health food stores or Whole Foods. The directions say to take a hot bath, rinse with cold water and rest. When I have a cold or Bronchitis I bathe in the mustard bath and feel SO much better.

If you want to soften and moisturize your skin, an olive oil bath can't be beat. Put about half to a cup per bath, and be careful not to slip when you get in and out. It's best to shower first so you won't need to wash off the oil later. After soaking for awhile, get out of the tub and rub your body with a towel, leaving the residual oil on your skin. If your hands are slippery, wash with a little soap. Make sure to clean the tub out later to get rid of the oil. If you have the time, wrap yourself up in a terry robe and rest.

A bath can be invigorating too, depending on what you add to it. Stimulating essential oils, such as wintergreen or citrus. Baking soda can be added as well. If you want to detox, adding vinegar to the tub is great but you have to like that smell. This bath should not be too hot and should be followed by a cold shower.

Make time in your busy week for a couple baths, soothing, clearing, detoxing, energizing, whatever you want. You'll love it.