Anyone who knows me knows that I LOVE a warm bath after a hard day. Hell, the deciding factor in choosing my apartment was because it had the best bathtub! I take these soaks seriously and so should you! There are so many things you can add to your bath routine other than bubbles. Want to detoxify? No problem. Want to reduce the appearance of cellulite? We’ve got you covered. Take a cue from Drake and pop some champagne in the tub as we go beyond the bath bomb and explore other types of bath products!
Mustard Baths
Yes, you heard me, I said mustard. And no, I don’t mean as a condiment for your hot dog, I mean for your bath. It may sound strange, but mustard has been used as a detoxifying agent for centuries, dating back as far as Ancient Greece. In addition to detoxifying, it has been known to increase circulation and leave skin glowing. But why put it in the bath? As Dr. Singha puts it, “the outward application contributes to general well-being by activating the largest organ of elimination in the body: THE SKIN and helping to reduce the toxic load stored in tissues throughout the body.” One packet of Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath Powder will set you back less than $5.00. With a price point like that and the potential for so many benefits, why not give it a try?
Japanese Hot Spring Powders
It has the words “hot spring” in it so you know it’s going to feel good! Japanese men and women have been soaking in hot springs for centuries. Not only do they provide a calming effect, but it is said to help combat fatigue and even help with digestion and intestinal issues. For those of us who aren’t lucky enough to travel to a hot spring, there are Japanese hot spring powders that are said to have a similar effect. A favorite among hot spring powder enthusiasts is Yakusen’s Roman “Muddy White.” The brand boasts that “90% of its ingredients are from hot spring minerals” and it clocks in at a$16.00 for one jar.
Seaweed Baths
Seaweed: it’s not just for sushi anymore! Seaweed may taste delicious but it’s job is to maintain the ecological balance of the ocean. The thought behind seaweed baths is that if seaweed can purify the ocean, then it can also do the same for our bodies – by eliminating toxins and rebalancing our pH levels. In addition, seaweed is believed to “possess an electrolytic magnetic action” which allows the body to “release excess body fluids from the congested cells, dissipating fatty wastes through the skin pores.” Now, I don’t know about you, but if there’s even a partial chance that my soak can also be slimming then I’m ALL in. If you want to try it for yourself, The Seaweed Bath Co. has you covered for just under $15.
Alkali Salt
You’ve probably heard of using Epsom salt in the bath but what about Alkali Salt? In Chemistry, an alkali is defined as a base that dissolves in water. The goal of using an alkali salt is to help your body return to its ideal pH level. Why is that important? When our pH levels are out of whack it can cause a host of unpleasant side effects like, bloating and inflammation. Suzanne Kaufmann’s Alkali Salt is said to be beneficial for “restoring the acid-base balance, after intense sporting activity, or to reduce stress.” I’m no chemist, but if balancing your acidity levels and having smooth skin are two of your priorities, then an alkali salt bath just might be worth a try.
by Sara Estelle Grayum
all pictures by Gabriela Mendez
