10 Tips for taking the perfect bath

As I mentioned in my ways to unwind post, I love a good bath. I am fully aware that baths are not as eco friendly as short showers (I once got told that argument by someone who stayed 45 minutes in the shower... please). However since I was a kid both my parents were people who took baths everyday so this is just how I was raised. I'm always so surprised when someone tells me they haven't taken a bath in months (or worst.. years). My first flat in Dublin didn't have a bath so I had no choice and as dramatic as it sounds, I really did miss it. I don't do it everyday anymore, but when I do decide to indulge I make sure to make it worth it!

Since the weather is all over the place this week I figured this was the perfect time to share my knowledge as I myself go and hide in a nice warm bath.

1. PUT ON A FACE MASK

Since you'll be relaxing for a while, might as well make the most of it. I love to put on some sort of exfoliating face mask (probably clay-based) before hopping in to give it plenty of time to work while I'm soaking. You could also do the same with your hair and coat it with a nice moisturizing mask. I'm currently using the Ri Na Mara seaweed face mask and I like it so far!

2. USE A SEAWEED BATH SOAK

My friend had told me about this months ago and I was reminded of it when I went to the Irish Crafts Fair, it was everywhere. The way this works is to tie the seaweed pack to your tap and let the water run through it. The water will then be full of all the skin benefits from the seaweed. The one thing I would say though is that most of these packs are wrapped in plastic bags or plastic nets which I find slightly outrageous... I met the people from Palm Free Irish Soaps though, and theirs is packaged is a muslin bag, much much better!

3. ADD SOME BATH SALTS TO THE MIX

This is nothing new but it's a tradition for a reason. Epsom salt has such a long list of benefits, one of them being muscle tension relief, that I can't really find a reason not to add it to you bath! There are so many options out there from regular epsom salt to some infused with lavender or eucalyptus.

4. ADD SOME BATH OR ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils can have such a wide variety of effects on us, from relaxation to helping us when we are sick. Using them an be as simple as picking the one you want and dropping a few drops in your bath water. Another option would be to use pre-made mixes. I got this Aromatherapy Associates sample in a Christmas Advent Calendar so I'm enjoying using it up (But it's a bit too pricey for me to repurchase when I'm done).

5. LIGHT A CANDLE

There's just something relaxing about candles. From creating the perfect mood lighting to spreading just the right scent, candles can totally make an atmosphere. Just make sure you put yours in a safe spot away from flammables. (Did I tell you I'm slightly afraid of fire?...)

6. POUR YOURSELF A GLASS

That one will obviously be different for everyone. I don't drink wine but my mom swears by pouring herself a glass when she's going for a nice long bath. I've had tea with me when I was especially cold, or a nice fruit smoothie if I'd just finished a workout. Whatever it is, pick something you enjoy that will help you wind down and relax.

7. GRAB A BOOK

Now we're getting to the good stuff! Get comfy, grab a book, and just enjoy the warm water and this time for yourself. It's a bit safer than browsing on your phone, which I've also done plenty of times... I'm currently reading Ashley Graham's book A New Model if anyone is interested!

8. TAKE OUT THAT ONE PRODUCT YOU NEVER USE

That one might be different for everybody, but use that one bath product you never take the time to use. For me that's body scrub, so when I decide to treat myself I make it a point to grab the one that smells the best (priorities..) and just exfoliate to my heart's content. This could be bubble bath or bath bombs or any other product that you don't use on the regular. Just make sure all the ingredients are safe for the oceans!

9. DRY BRUSH

The goodness doesn't have to end when you get out of the bath. One you're all dry, you can use a dry brush to brush your skin. Doing this is good for exfoliating the skin (although don't press too hard or brush too vigorously) as well as stimulating circulation and the lymphatic system. To do this, start at your extremities (hands and feet) and brush in small stokes towards the heart. The evidence is sparse but some people also say it helped with their cellulite. There are loads of brushes out there, I use one from Botanics I found at Boots.

10. BODY OIL

The cherry on top! Once I'm all done I like to apply a body oil to keep my skin hydrated and to lock in all the good stuff from the bath. I spoke about Dr. Hauschka's Rose oil in my Winter Skincare Favourites a while back, it leaves my skin soft and smelling absolutely divine.