I will never understand why my husband prefers showers to baths. Like NEVER. Legit, I feel so nourished with a detox bath and baths in general- how about you?

The thing is bathing is sacred- it is super juicy self care that not only nourished; it also helps to purify and cleanse not just on a physical level but also emotional and spiritual. I like to include the following ingredients when I do a long soak (and at the end of the day, you don’t have to have these, but they are nice!):

1. Epsom salt- my favorite way to nourish after a long trip. For one, epsom salt provides magnesium, which most of us are pretty deficient in. This is powerful for so many processes in the body, from hormones to mood, to muscles, neurological health- all of it! Epsom salts also help to promote stress and sleep reduction, helps with constipation, and reduces pain and swelling.

2. Herbs- Herbal soaks can be a relaxing way to unwind and provide comfort and relief from stress. I LOVEEE these newly postpartum especially, and I swear by sitz baths and herbal soaks for helping to support the pelvic floor. Adding herbs can help with inflammation, mood, muscle stress- my three favorite herbs to add in our lemon balm, calendula and chamomile.

3. Crystals- you can use these to amplify the energy of the room and promote calm and relaxation. I especially like amethyst, clear quartz and citrine. For physical support, amethyst helps in improving endocrine functions, immune system, skin health, reducing headaches, regulating hormones and improving digestive health. Clear quartz can help calm your nerves and help the body to relax. Citrine helps support mood and energy levels, pulling your body into more balance and harmony. You can put these crystals around your bath for support. I suggest brewing these herbs for tea in a big gallon or 1/2 gallon pot, and using the steeped solution in your bath soak.

4. Soothing sound- Just hearing running water alone is so helpful to soothe and nourish, but even in a bath I find this SO meditative. I especially like to listen to Solfeggio’s frequencies during a long soak.

5. Aromatherapy- this has been one of my favorite things to add into my soaks for years! I like to add to my Epsom salts typically 10 drops of different essential oils like lavender, peppermint and eucalyptus. They are SO relaxing for a bath and have benefits for the skin, muscles, mood, immune system and promote relaxation.

What about you? Anything you like to add to your soaks? I especially find these helpful after long travel, busy weeks and during different lunar phases. Here is a cheat sheet for understanding lunar phases, and why you might want to schedule your soak during this time:

New Moon = new beginnings

Waxing Crescent Moon = new intentions 

First Quarter Moon = decision making

Waxing Gibbous Moon = refining and adjusting

Full Moon = release and sealing intentions

Waning Gibbous Moon = gratitude

Third Quarter Moon = forgiveness

Waning Crescent Moon = letting go, surrender

Prepare to sit in your soak for at least 20 minutes or as tolerated. Be mindful of any hotter or colder temperatures and always keep hydration like coconut water or water with lemon nearby for support.

Who is going to be incorporating more sacred baths soon? Let me know in the comments!