I’m often asked after a session how one can supplement and extend the effects of a massage treatment. One of my most common suggestions would be to bathe. Many people think of bathing and showering as merely a part of the daily grooming routine, but due to the ever-growing hectic schedule, most of us choose the latter. How often do we say ‘I need to jump in the shower’? So secondary has the modern bath become, that many of us over six feet tall have issues fitting into the standard tub found in homes today. If you are lucky enough to have one that fits you, by all means make a date with yourself in the tub…collect the candles, the essential oils, a good book and sink into a mini vacation!

Relaxation

The most important aspect of a bath and the one most often neglected is taking the time to enjoy it. Sinking into the hot water may be shocking at first (do try to make it as hot as you can), but once you’ve adjusted, you can almost feel the stress of your day fading away. The effects are very similar to massage! Add hot water as needed to extend your time.

Sensual and Therapeutic Additions

Epsom salts are a great addition. This old remedy to condition the skin is also a great magnesium supplement and is thought to help release toxins as you sweat in the hot water. Sea water is commonly known for healing and sterilizing wounds and Epsom salts are a way to do this in the bath. Essential oils are excellent for setting a mood with your sense of smell or for added therapeutic properties. Only a few drops are needed. These can be purchased online or at your local natural food grocer.

Here are some of the more common oils used in aromatherapy:

• Lavander – Excellent calming and relaxing qualities. Also good for colds, flu and migraine
• Tea Tree – Highly antiseptic and good for a multitude of skin conditions including smelly feet, athlete’s foot and burns. Also good for muscle aches and flu (use sparingly)
• Lemon – Stimulates the mind and invigorates. Gives a refreshing feeling. Good for arthritis
• Rosemary – Mental stimulation and memory booster
• Marjoram – Calms hyperactivity and relieves anxiety
• Eucalyptus – Antiseptic for respiratory diseases
• Ginger – Stimulates circulation and increases body temperature (use sparingly)

Exfoliation

Remember to use a loofah sponge, wash cloth or glove to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. Mildly scrubbing the skin will open pores and invigorate cell production.

The Cool Down

This step is really optional and is often better in warmer months…Once you’ve enjoyed your long soak, 30-60 seconds under a cold shower can do wonders for one’s circulation. The blood that has been lingering on the surface of your skin rushes back to your internal organs as a natural form of protection. This also helps to close the pores of the skin before heading out into the world again. This is widely practiced in the saunas of Scandinavia as an integral part of hyrdotherapy and good health maintenance. Once you have the first shocking blast of cold water, you can adjust the temperature of the water to your liking before stepping out of the tub.

Rehyrdation, Inside and Out

Be sure to drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body from the inside. You will have sweated out more than you might imagine. You may even want to keep a glass by the tub while soaking…especially for those of you who like a like glass of wine during tub time. After you have dried off, your skin will greatly appreciate an application of good quality lotion to seal in the moisture and condition the new skin.

Few of us can afford the luxury of a bath every night… but I have not doubt that if you get into the habit of scheduling a soak regularly, you will quickly feel the benefits of this ancient and very simple ritual.

Rod Cain, LMT owns and operates Rod Cain Massage Therapy in Burlington, Vermont.