Bath time doesn't have to be just about getting clean. It can be a time to relax before bed, to gather your thoughts or to muster energy for the coming day. Whether you want to unwind, to indulge or to energise, a good soak in the bath can be just what you need. Make time for these bath time rituals, each designed to leave you feeling happier, calmer and ready to tackle your day.
Unwind
There can be few simpler pleasures than lying back in a warm, deep bath tub. Unwind properly by adding a few gorgeous products that are designed to help you relax. For a naturally fizzy soak try a Jane Inc. Effervescent cube Go to Sleep, made with essential oils and no nasty chemicals yet with the same pleasing feel as other bath bombs. If you prefer a bath oil treat your skin to a drizzle of the Dr Hauska Moor Lavender Calming bath essence, which will fill your bathroom with deliciously calming lavender scent, and keep your skin feeling soft. Light a candle (we love Nancy Meiland's Scented Candle in Rosier) and let the comforting light soothe your mind. For a gentle massage try our Linen Terry Glove, designed to be kind to your skin. A relaxing bath can help you sleep better and more deeply as your body temperature drops and your thoughts are stilled.
Energise
If you like to start your day with a bath, try this ritual for increased energy and focus. Run your bath and add some zingy citrus bath oil, like Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin. The scents will invigorate and stimulate your sleepy mind. Use a body pad and a fabulous body scrub to get your circulation going and wake your body up. Play an inspiring podcast, or listen to a mindfulness meditation track, to get you focussed on what you need to achieve that day. When you get out of the bath, wrap yourself in a soft linen towel and spend a moment in the 'Wonder Woman' power pose (for men and women: chest broad, hands on hips, legs wide) to channel confidence and strength.
Indulge
It can be hard to make time to treat yourself. But an indulgent bath can do wonders for your sense of wellbeing and helps reduce stress levels. Arm yourself with your favourite towel, candles and a good book or life-affirming podcast. Pour yourself a glass of wine or make a mug of herbal tea. Lock the door. If there are other people in the house tell them that you will be unavailable to help with homework/lost wallets/feeding the cat/washing the dishes for at least half an hour. Add some luxurious product to the bath, like Ameliorate Softening Bathing Powder, then sink in and let your mind drift. Try a face mask for a truly spa-like experience (this Charlotte Tilbury Dry Sheet Face Mask comes highly recommended). After your bath, slather on some treat-y skin cream and wrap yourself in a luxurious linen bath robe. Then waft fragrantly back into the domestic world, refreshed, rejuvenated and feeling good.
