Clients that come for a massage in the next two weeks will receive a handmade gift from me – a deluxe bath blend of oils and salts. Read on to learn about the benefits of my homemade deluxe bath blend – a gift that doesn’t cost the earth
The deluxe bath blend is a mix of bicarbonate soda, pink Himalayan rock salt, Epsom salts, rose petals, shea butter and essential oils.
Bicarbonate Soda
Baking soda has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Since it can dry out your skin due to its alkaline properties, you can get relief from itching and swelling. It can help reduce scarring from acne and its cooling effect is a good remedy for skin dried by sunburn or sun exposure. It is also a natural cleanser and whitener for the skin.
Pink Himalayan salts
Salts help to relax and provide relief to cramped muscles and muscle aches, due to the presence of calcium and other trace minerals. It can also help strengthen bones, skin, and connective tissues that may contribute to body soreness. The salt gets stored in the upper layer of the skin, which plumps up your skin and creates a natural protective film on the skin and prevents the skin from dryness. Salt can provide relief to irritating and painful skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis, as it helps to promote better skin hydration. It is also effective against insect bites and blisters.
The salt also acts as a natural skin exfoliator. So get in the bath and rub those salts over your skin!
Epsom Salts
I’ve talked about the benefits of epsom salts and magnesium before. For hundreds of years, this salt has been used to treat ailments, such as constipation, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. Most of the reported benefits of Epsom salt are attributed to its magnesium, a mineral that a lot of people are deficient in. It’s an affordable natural remedy that is easily available and used around the home. A great way to add a little more benefit to your bathtub.
All these ingredients are generally safe to use, even ingest. However, you can overdose causing symptoms like nausea, headache, lightheadedness, and flushed skin. Bathe for 20 to 30 minutes, once or twice a week.
Shea Butter, Essential Oils & Rose petals
Shea butter is a great moisturiser for the skin but it also acts as an emulsifier for the essential oils. The oils are infused in the butter, which will melt in the warm water. This will distribute the essential oils throughout the water, so you receive the maximum benefit. I’ve use a blend of relaxation oils from Auroma. This blend is gentle and relaxing. These essential oils have been selected to help relieve nervous tension, stress, mild anxiety and irritability. They include; Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Bergamot (Citrus aurantium ssp. bergamia) and Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata).
Rose petals sprinkled in a bath are the image of luxury and self love. But a rose petal bath isn’t all looks—it can actually enhance your skin and mood. Rosewater soothes irritated skin, brightens your complexion and tightens pores for a smooth appearance.
Most of the ingredients I’ve used are easily available in the pharmacy, supermarket or online. I sourced mine from the zero waste shop, where I filled my own containers. I’ve used rose petals from my own garden, and topped up jars I’ve saved or found in op shops. They’re an easy, heartfelt gift for loved ones that doesn’t cost the earth.
Instructions
How to get the most out of your deluxe bath blend
Step 1: Cleanse body with a shower before your deluxe bath blend.
Step 2: Prepare a hot bath where the temperature makes you sweat without being straining on the body. Grab a glass of cold water and place it beside your tub to keep yourself hydrated. Don’t forget to set the scene with candles and soft relaxing music.
Step 3: Dissolve the deluxe bath blend while the tub is filling up to ensure that the salt is evenly mixed and dissolved. (Use whole jar.)
Step 4: Soak in bath for 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 5: Slowly get out of bath. No need to rinse off, just pat dry.
