The Art of Bathing

*Photo courtesy of HGTV.com

Who knew that a little hot water and soap could be so healing? Okay, in most cases it's more than a little hot water but still bathing has some serious healing powers. The Japanese know all too well as bathing is a major part of their culture. It is more than just the American way to get clean, it's too relax and cleanse the soul. While visiting my sister in Tokyo last year I got to take part in it at a famous Osen. This particular Osen is the Disney World of baths with 14 different types of baths to choose from; needless to say, I was in heaven!

For those that don't know me, I am an avid bath taker. During my teenage years my parents upgraded to a garden jacuzzi tub which lead to an obsession that can not be broken. It also lead to many arguments between my sisters and me on who got use the bathtub first. Due to my smallness in size I never saw the draw of the jets; however, I thoroughly enjoyed soaking in a deep tub where the water came clear up to my chin. I used to scare my mother every time I would get in, filling the tub to brim, she always worried I was going to over flow the tub and make a huge mess. I never did. Ü

It was during high school that I learned what I call the Art of Bathing. I had a close friend who also enjoyed the luxuries of baths and taught me how to make the most of it. No he did not bathe with me, we simply discussed a few simple tricks that increase the relaxation, amplify the atmosphere, and elongate the length of bathing time. The man is a genius and a life saver!

From that point on my bath time went from a mere 30 minutes to a record breaking 2.5 hours. Baths have become my happy place, my sense of relaxation when nothing else can calm me, my spiritual awakening. I am by no means comparing bathing to a spiritual encounter; however, I will admit that baths can be a spiritual experience. To allow the bubbles aroma to completely relax and clear your mind of all your troubles while the hot water relaxes your muscles of the days stress, (sigh) it's incredible. A little music and candles, a good book and it's a perfect night!

By keeping your feet and hands out of the water you are able to maintain a lower core body temperature longer. Free hands also allows you to hold your favorite or latest Lori Wick book for reading. Candles strategically placed allow enough light for said reading and create a romantic atmosphere for relaxing. Drinking ice water when ever you feel a moment of dizziness come on keeps your blood pressure at healthy levels and refrains it from dipping too low while relaxing. A cool cloth to pad your neck and head while laying against the end of the tub will not only provide comfortable lounging but a another solution to body temperature and blood pressure. When you run out of ice water to drink simply turn on the faucet and fill your cup; if you allow a small trickle of that water to dampen your feet you can increase your bath time.

In my household, baths are a serious thing and not to be taken lightly. When I tell my husband that I need a bath he knows how bad my day has been, just how stressed out I am, or how much I am in need of some me time. Even though he doesn't understand the healing powers that are within bathing, he has become an expert at drawing me a bath just the way I like it. He truly is the best husband there is; he even retrieves the CD player and a cup of ice water for me.

Please keep in mind I don't offer these ideas as absolute fact but merely as viable opinion. I have shared these tips with numerous friends and all have come back elated at the result. I will warn you, most have come back addicted to the art and power of bathing.

Happy bathing everyone!