Feeling overwhelmed and need a bit of “Me Time”? Over the past few days, spirit has made me aware of this practice for several clients, so it would appear that there are many around us that need a bit of time to digest, to recalibrate, to decompress so-to-speak. A time where we’re unincumbered by the demands of our jobs, families, and just simple decision making! Possibly you’re running into the same overwhelm? Here’s one suggestion that I thought would be easy, accessible, and inexpensive that we all can do. A salt bath!
Taking a salt bath is one of the best ways to soothe sore muscles, calm your nervous system, and get a little systemic relaxation. However, there’s a big difference between just dumping salt into a tub versus creating a therapeutic, body and mind healing experience.
From what I’ve learned, the secret lies in water temperature and salt concentration. Apparently, if the water is too hot, your body won’t absorb the minerals effectively, and you’ll just end up dehydrated.
Here is the best-practice method for prepping the perfect salt bath.
Here’s your recipe:
1. Choose your therapeutic grade salt:
Use 2 cups of high-quality salt. Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is best for muscle recovery and soreness, while Dead Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt is fantastic for skin hydration and inflammation.
2. Start the pour early:
Begin filling your tub with warm water. Pour the 2 cups of salt directly under the running faucet. The force of the water helps the salt dissolve completely so you aren’t sitting on gritty crystals. If you need to, swish the water around to dissolve any granules.
3. Dial in the temperature:
Aim for warm (92°F to 100°F), not scalding. If the water is too hot, it triggers your body’s defense mechanism (sweating), which prevents your skin from absorbing the magnesium and minerals. It should feel like a comfortable, cozy embrace.
4. Enhance (Optional):
If you want aromatherapy, never drop essential oils directly into the water (they will float on top and can irritate your skin). Instead, mix 5-8 drops of lavender or eucalyptus oil into 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil), then stir it into the tub. Your best bet is to drop a few flowers or leaves from the plant directly into the water.
5. Soak and hydrate:
Soak for a minimum of 12 minutes to allow the mineral transfer to happen, but cap it at 20 minutes so your skin doesn’t start to prune and dry out. Also, try using soothing meditative music or even cover your eyes with a soft eye mask so your time in the bath is even more therapeutic.
6. Post-Bath:
When you get out, skip the heavy soap rinse, just quickly rinse off with fresh, lukewarm water if you feel sticky, then pat dry with a towel. Apply a moisturizer within 3 minutes of stepping out to lock in the hydration while your pores are still open. Drink a full glass of water to purify and detox your system.