Yayyyy, it’s my birthday! And Gemini season is in full effect! I have turned thirty… (muffles the rest). LOL. But really, I just turned 36. I am proud to be able to make it this far, and I’m very grateful. So what am I doing for my birthday? Well, I’m practicing self-care like I did last year.
Having studied in psychology and counseling, I know the importance of self care or in other terms, taking care of your well-being. Self care to me has always been isolating myself getting some me time in while I either read a book or watch TV. I have utilized this method exclusively until about four years ago when I revived my love for travel. I’m an Army brat, so that was part of my lifestyle for a while. Well, traveling means having extra time, money, and sometimes a travel buddy, and life usually doesn’t always provide all three at the same time. Plus, Ms. Rona decided to turn the world upside down last year. So, traveling hasn’t helped with my mental health like I hoped. So, unfortunately, I was back to the drawing board. One of those things that helped me regain my sanity and peace was (drumroll please) taking baths.
I know, I know. It’s not that exciting or groundbreaking, but I’m telling you, a good bath can soothe away your stress from the day. Studies show that taking a bath has several different benefits. It helps to improve your health mentally, physically, and emotionally.
One of the most important things to consider when taking a bath is being prepared. No one wants to get out of the tub because they forgot their Bluetooth speaker, or their phone begins ringing from their bedroom. When I take my bath, I make sure I run my water while adding my favorite bubble bath, Epsom salt, or a blend of the two (foaming bath salts). I then place my bath tray securely over the bathtub.
I set the mood by placing and turning on my flameless candles – yes, flameless- no candle wax cleanup. If you want to add real candles, that’s on you. I either then bring in my tablet and queue up a movie or show to watch, or turn on my Bluetooth speaker.
Allowing my burdens to melt away, I soak in the tub. I let the Epsom salt seep into my muscles, taking my aches away. To take my mind off the worries of the day, I watch my tablet or listen to my music. I enjoy my bath with my mind, body, and soul, while it replenishes all three.
A shower is good, but sometimes a bath is better. Even if you don’t have the extras, a simple bath has benefits as well. Remember practicing self-care doesn’t have to be expensive. As always, talk to you later, ladybugs.
