| Aromatherapy Baths
Introduction
A variety of beautiful, herbal soaps that contain essential oils.
Bathing with essential oils is a wonderfully synergistic combination. The relaxing properties of hot water compliment the effects of well chosen essential oils. Aromatic baths can provide relief from stress and anxiety, assist with muscle pains, or offer a sensual introduction to a romantic evening with your partner.
The Japanese have long known and respected the relaxing properties of hot baths. In Japan, it is customary to first wash and rinse well in a separate shower or basin and then take a long hot (extremely hot by Western standards) bath.1 It is not appropriate to actually wash in the bath.2 The water is conserved and reheated for reuse by others in the household.3 Maggie Tisserand mentions that the working Japanese individual can call from work and program the bath water to be hot and ready at the time he/she arrives home from a hard day at work.4
Even men are enjoying aromatic baths in increasing numbers. Perhaps not an ideal example, but I have enjoyed watching the U.S. television sitcom called Frasier on occasion. If I recall correctly, Frasier, a male psychiatrist, took a long bath with Jasmine and Vanilla in one episode. Although the sitcom's writers most likely wanted to create humor by having Frasier take an aromatic bath, it truly reflects the benefits that baths can offer to both genders. There is nothing effeminate about a man enjoying an aromatic bath.
Adding Oils to the Bath
Using essential oils in the bath is one of the easiest ways to implement aromatherapy and its benefits. Add 5-7 drops essential oil to 1 ounce carrier oil. Add this blend to your running bath water and mix well before getting into the tub. Be sure to read the safety data for the essential oils you choose to use.
The Recipe Box contains a recipe blend that you can use to customize your own bath oils. It also contains a recipe for creating your own bath salts. For a sensuous bath, try sandalwood, rose, ylang ylang, patchouli, neroli or jasmine. For skin soothing benefits, try Roman or German chamomile, lavender, patchouli or sandalwood. Again, be sure to follow the safety precautions for the oils you use. Avoid oils that can cause sensitivity to the skin. Oils that you should avoid in the bath include but are not limited to basil, oregano, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, black pepper, and bay (Pimenta and Laurus). |
