Detox Bathing 101

Detox bathing has long been a cherished ritual in my life. It can be as simple as a combination of salts and soda -- or filled with layers of scents and soothing! With a little organization, you can assemble your favourite dried herbs and essential oils and make a truly transportive moment. 

Do you like 'salt n' soda' baths with herbs or essential oils?
We SO deserve these brief moments of solitude, don't we?  
Look after YOU  (as well as everyone else!)
Here's to more of these healing moments this year!

I am not 'on the detox wagon'. I don't think that every one needs 'a detox'. I think that we need to be aware, though, that we absorb 'our world' and for that reason, these days, more than ever, we can benefit from creating good habits which can help us in the long run, to feel our best. It is definitely a good "habit" to detoxify in small ways daily and weekly to let go of 'stuff ' we encounter. Laundry soap, cleaning materials. Oh dear. Those "plug ins" with the fake smells emanating out of plugs in people's homes. Please tell me that trend is 'on it's way out' or OVER!

Do you 'dry brush'? 

It's EASY ~ Not only does this brushing feel good; the action helps to to slough off dead skin cells, which helps our skin to release toxins and 'breathe'. It's a great addition to your daily self-care. (or as often as possible!)  If you haven't tried it yet, it feels great and all you need is a good brush! 
I use one like this here --> Full Body Natural Bristle Dry Skin Exfoliation Brush Detox Fight Cellulite Tool

For easy peasy detoxifying bathing, use various SALTS and BAKING SoDAs… 
Let go of the WALMART mega-sized chemical-filled, highly scented,  coloured SUDS!

Here are two 'recipes' to try. This first one is very soothing during the winter for easing dry skin. Salts and Baking Soda combine to make the water feel silky and your skin clean and soft.

Detox Bathing 101:

This is more of a guideline and is EASY to make:

1 cup Epsom Salts
1 cup Salt (Dead Sea, Sea Salt, Himalayan etc)
2 cups baking soda

Optional:  1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable glycerin per bath* 
                : or 1 tablespoon of coconut oil, sesame oil *
                : Essential oils of your choice ~ just a few drops
                : fresh or dried herbs ^^

*more or less depending upon your skin type
^^ I tend to use dried chamomile or lavender or roses, in a muslin bag.
      The herbs impart their magical gifts and clean up is a breeze! 

To make:

Combine the baking soda and the salts in a bowl.
Stir to blend. Put mixture in a large jar with a good lid.
To Use:
Pour ¼ cup or so into the bath while the tub is filling.
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons glycerin, if using and any essential oils you like to add a scent.
Toss a muslin bag of herbs into the bath and ENJOY!

Caution: Do not take hot baths if you have heart issues, high blood pressure, or are diabetic. Keep it warm and enjoy. Avoid too much heat and less than 20 minutes.

I have written about herbs and bathing before. Whether it's for better sleep or better digestion
or to help our bodies detoxify -- therapeutic baths are a wonderful GOOD habit!

DETOX BATH RECIPE:

• 2 cups Epsom Salt - draws out toxins from your body while relieving aches and pains(see here for more on Epsom Salts)
• 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar - soothes and soften dry, itchy skin while balancing the bodies and neutralizing the bodies pH.
• ½ cup Bentonite Clay  - draws toxins out of the body, stimulates the lymphatic system + immune system
• 5-10 drops of your favorite Essential Oil - geranium, lavender, sandalwood,  or ylang ylang  are all known for their detoxifying properties.

Run a warm bath (as hot as is comfortable)

Add your the ingredients and "SWISH" your water about,  to dissolve. Soak in your tub for 20-40 minutes. Drink a full glass of water during or afterwards. Think happy thoughts. Suggest locking the door -- to ensure private time just for you!

Caution: Do not take hot baths if you have heart issues, high blood pressure, or are diabetic. Keep it warm and enjoy. Avoid too much heat and less than 20 minutes.

Here are some past posts sharing some healthy bathing ideas:
Bath Crystals and Herbal Tea TUB Tea and Foot Bathing is healthy

What do you like to use in YOUR detoxifying bath?
     Do you 'dry brush' ?