How to Really Enjoy a Hot Bath

Life is busy and while self care is something we all know we ought practice, I think we also all know it often gets shoved to one side as we make our way through life—or, as some say, adult. Many of us say to ourselves, I don’t have time for self care, and often that means that we take quick showers as oppose to a bath. Baths can be seen as an indulgence.

And I understand that completely. Lately, life has been hectic for me. I’m busy chasing around a toddler who loves to crawl, open cupboards, put everything in his mouth and get into things every waking minute. A lot of the things I love to do—reading, writing, crocheting—have taken a back seat as I’m playing and caring for Baby J. That’s why you haven’t seen as much from me here on the blog, or on social media.

But today, I did something. I took a hot bath. And while I was in there, I thought about how enjoyable it was. I think there are things we can do to really make a hot bath enjoyable.

Unplug from Your Device

I think we can all agree that we all need to unplug a lot more from our phones. So when you head into the bath, leave that phone far out of reach—in another room so notifications don’t interrupt your ability to relax. Just lean back in that hot water, close your eyes and simply be. Think of it as a mini meditation.

Oils, Bubbles and Scrubs

Hot baths can have health benefits, but I think we all enjoy them because they are relaxing so be sure to pour in some bath oil, add some bubble bath and have a scrub on hand for when it’s time to lather up. I personally like salts as well, but my favourite to add to my bath water is bubble bath. I chose, natural scented products and I find it super comforting to luxuriate in hot water scented with lavender.

Music and Candlelight

Another way to relax in the tub is to have soft music playing—I love listening to Claire de Lune to help me relax—and turn off the lights and light up some lovely candles instead. Be sure to use soy or beeswax as these are clean burning. This is one self care bath idea I never indulge in myself, but I do think it will create an atmosphere of relaxation to help you really enjoy your bath.

Bath Pillow

Sadly, not tubs are created equal when it comes to comfort for your neck, so do be sure to have a bath pillow of some sort to cushion and support your neck. The idea is to relax, and a sore neck is hardly going to help you unwind. There are bath pillows on the market that are antibacterial so check out the selection rather than investing in just any old one.

Close Your Eyes

Take a few minutes to close your eyes. Listen to the sound of the bubbles in the tub, or to the soft music playing. Take some deep breaths and just quiet your mind. You don’t have to empty your mind or meditate, but do take some time while you are in that water to relax your mind and body consciously. Simply be.

Final Thoughts

That’s it folks, my self care bath ideas so you really enjoy a bath! I think it’s important that we indulge ourselves in this kind of self care from time to time. Slowing down your day by taking twenty minutes—or an hour—to simply lie back and be surrounded by warmth and really unwind body and mind is so good for your soul as well.

Do you take the time to enjoy a hot bath? Have some more tips on how to really enjoy your bath? Share in the comments below.