Basic Bath Tips

Perfection =  huge bathtub and trees!

Herbal baths are detoxifying and aromatic and intensely relaxing, both spiritually and physically.  The ceremony of bathing in herbs has become a daily rite in many cultures, a return to the source for the body and spirit.

The herb or combination of herbs used in the bath depends on the effect that is sought: to soothe the skin, promote sleep, stimulate circulation, relieve muscle aches and pains, or merely to enjoy the aromatic experience.  The concept, however, remains the same: imagine that you're relaxing in a giant cup of herb tea.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your herbal bath:

• The best time to bathe is when the stomach is empty.
• Salt added to bath water will help alleviate some of the light-headedness that some experience as a result of bathing in hot water.
• Morning baths should be tonic.  Their primary purpose is to relieve physical fatigue, stimulate the body and eliminate toxins. An ideal temperature for a morning bath is around 96.8 degrees F (36 degrees C).
• Evening baths are meant to be relaxing, to relieve stress and to prepare the body for sleep. An ideal temperature for an evening bath ranges between 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C) and 102 degrees F (39 degrees C).
• A muscle- or joint-soothing bath after an intense physical exertion or a very stressful day generally ranges between 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) and 107 degrees F (42 degrees C).
• Remember always to replenish body fluids by drinking plenty of water or herbal tea after a bath.
• After bathing, apply moisturizer while the skin is still warm and moist.