Soak in the Love
It’s that time of the year again when shops are filled with red and pink balloons, chocolate and loads of heart shaped candy. I sometimes feel like it can be a little overkill and we should show our appreciation and love for each other everyday. On the other hand, there is a part of me that loves the idea of a guarantee that at least one day a year I can expect beautiful fresh cut flowers from my husband.
Valentine’s Day was my grandfathers birthday, so even though I don’t always fully buy into the commercial aspect of this day, it will always hold a special place in my heart, filled with love and gratitude.
Whether you’re sharing your love with your partner, friends, family (4 legged members included), or your kiddos, don’t forget to leave some of that love for yourself. Taking time to focus on you is the best way to help you show up and be the most present, full version of yourself for those you love.
The skin is our bodies largest organ, and our first boundary of defence against unwanted pathogens. But this isn’t new information. Humans have been connected to the healing power of water for centuries. From Ancient Greek bath houses, to mid-century hydrotherapy, water is connected to the centre of our being.
One of my favourite ways to connect inward is a warm soak and completely shut off for a brief moment in time. I am sharing my recipe for bath salts made with, you guessed it, LOVE.
For the recipe you’ll need:
Epsom Salts
A naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. Epsom salt has been used for hundreds of years to help relieve muscle, or arthritis pain and inflammation.
Himalayan Sea Salts
A great addition to your bath time ritual. Containing 98% sodium, the rest of its make up consists of trace minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium. While you soak, this salt can help pull toxins out of your skin, and helping you to release negative energy. A soak in these salts can help reduce inflammation and leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Baking Soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), is a naturally alkaline substance that has a reputation for helping to remove toxins from the body. Adding it to a bath helps reduce the effects of dry itchy skin, leaving you feeling fresh and relaxed.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon essential oil is antimicrobial and anti-fungal with deep warming qualities. Perfect for those chilly evenings. A study published in the North American Journal of Psychology showed that catching a whiff of cinnamon may even boost cognitive function. Yes, please!
Bergamot
One of my favourites! Bergamot (Citrus Bergamia) is derived from the bergamot orange plant, and is enjoyed for its sweet citrus, floral scent. This beautiful oil has long been used to help relieve symptoms of depression or grief. Giving ourselves a little lift in this area is especially important as we move through the winter months.
A note of safety: Bergamot oil is highly phototoxic (causing skin irritation when exposed to light) so always dilute in a carrier oil prior to applying directing on the skin.
Rose
Rose petals contain a volatile oil used in aromatherapy for it’s antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties. The petals are also commonly used as a mild sedative, making the perfect addition to your relax and unwind time.
To Make:
1 cup epsom salts
1 cup Himalayan sea salts
1/4 cup baking soda
5 drops cinnamon essential oil
10 drops bergamot essential oil
Sprinkle of dried rose petals
Mix the first 3 ingredients in a large bowl, then add your essential oil, rose petals and stir to combine.
I store my salts in mason jars and toss 1/4 cup into my bath.
However you choose to celebrate (or not) this Valentine’s Day, I hope you can find a few moments to focus on you!