By Christabelle… @CBellesCloset (*Pure Editorial, Non-Paid Post*)

Lapis Spa at Fontainebleau in Miami Beach

Water or hydro therapy can be traced to about 4500 BC to the areas that are now Egypt, Iraq and Iran.  Immersing the body in water has been medically proven to be a very relaxing, therapeutic and a complement to a healthy lifestyle or those in need of improved well-being; this is why Lapis Spa, Fontainebleau Miami Beach offers water therapy in various ways and at varied temperatures.

According to Director of Spa Operation, Josie Feria the deep muscle relaxation associated with a good hot bath helps to reduce cramps, tension headaches and improves muscle elasticity. It has even been said that taking a bath takes you back to a time when you were in the womb thus creating a comforting and relaxing environment.

So, next time you have a stressful day (and you cannot whisk yourself to Lapis Spa at the Fontainebleau in Miami Beach), draw a bath and use the tips by Josie Feria to create the ultimate soaking experience (please note my faves are included next to her tips!).

Scented Bath Oil– Choose scented bath oil; floral scents like lavender, jasmine, iris and rose are associated with relaxation and can help to ease you into a relaxing state quicker. Add oils to the tub when the bath is halfway full, this will help them disperse evenly throughout the water.

Bath Temperature– A warm bath is best for relaxing the body.  Ideal water temperature for a warm bath is 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to use your wrist, not your hand to test the water since your wrist is a better gauge of how the water will feel once your entire body is submerged.

Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub

Body Scrub– Most people are used to being active all the time, so when they get in the tub their minds start racing and they become unable to relax. Gently massaging your body with a sponge and body scrub will help engage your mind as the scrub buffs away dryness and leaves your skin supple and moist.
Note from CC: My scrub of choice is Kiehl’s Gently Exfoliating Body Scrub
SRP $28 (this deliciously creamy textured scrub is available in Vanilla, Lavender and Coriander).

Close Your Eyes– It is important to close your eyes during the bath to enter deep relaxation, so anything that forces you to keep your eyes closed is a great.  Try cold cucumbers, an icy compress or eye pads which have been soaked in chilled chamomile tea.

Bath Salts– Tough workout? Bath salts are like external muscle relaxants. If you have soreness, pain or swelling, bath salts reduce inflammation and stiffness, and help detoxify skin and increase circulation which helps to ease tension and revitalize the body.

Healing Candles by Thomas John

Candles– Bright bathroom lights tell your body its go-time — not bath time. Instead, light a few candles and place them around the room and on the edge of the tub.

Note from CC: Try my new fave –  Healing Candles by Thomas John
SRP $120 (a set of four infused candles with essential oils to help soothe the soul: Lemongrass/Lavender, Sandalwood, Patchouli and Pomegranate Sage). 

Cold Water– If you set your water temp right (somewhere between steamy and very warm), you should be feeling quite toasty in the tub.  A warm bath raises your body’s core temperature, so you’ll start sweating. Before getting into the tub, set a bowl of ice water and a washcloth next to you and use it as a cold compress on your forehead or the nape of your neck to help keep you refreshed throughout the bath time.  I also grab a tall bottle of San Pellegrino and force myself to drink the whole thing to hydrate.

The Company Store Charisma Hooded Spa Robe

Bath Robe/ Nice Bath Sheets- Nothing jolts you out of a zen state like going from a warm, luxe bath to a measly, threadbare robe or old dingy towel. Get a plush terry cloth robe or fluffy towels that allow you to feel warm and comfortable.
Note from CC: You can own your own Turkish cotton Spa Robe at The Company Store – Charisma Hooded Robe
SRP $150 (luxuriously styled with waffle weave, hood, self-belt, patch pockets and interior loop for hanging).

Relax afterwards- Leave the smart phone alone for an hour or so and just enjoy time for yourself.  Get a glass of tea and read or listen to music.  Want more coziness? Heat a towel in the microwave and wrap around your neck and take a deep and well-earned nap.

Music- Play relaxing music to sooth your mood and aid in the process of relaxation. Visualization is also a great tool to enhance relaxation in the bath. Complimented by music visualization exercises can transport you to your own private Nirvana.
Note from CC: Pandora has a number of Spa Stations to suite and soothe your mood.

#bath #spa #spaathome  #ontrend #CBellesCloset