Your New
Weekend Ritual

Epsom salt soaking solution,
$6.79 by Dr. Teal's

If you've had a long week of early mornings or late nights, a few rough workouts or simply haven't found a way to stop slouching when you stare at your computer screen, an Epsom salt soak is just what the doctor ordered. The minerals in the salts actually reduce inflammation, which helps sore muscles and joints recover from exercise or injuries. And my favorite blend goes one further by adding essential oils (eucalyptus and mint), which make it even more soothing.

Epsom salt soaking solution,
$6.79 by Dr. Teal's

In the solitude of your bathroom, enveloped by warm water, you can't help but relax and let your mind wander. I find there's something about the steam surrounding me that makes me take deeper, more meditative breaths. Add to that the benefits of aromatherapy, and the stress just melts away. Simply drizzle in your favorite body wash, a few drops of the essential oil of your choice or even a proper bubble bath. Hey, you do you. No judgements when it comes to bath time.

A bath feels good, sure. But it turns out, they do more than just soothe tension. A recent study, published in the scientific journal Temperature, found that an hour-long soak in hot water produced similar anti-inflammatory and blood sugar responses as 60 minutes of moderate physical activity. "It seems that activities that increase heat shock proteins may help to improve blood sugar control and offer an alternative to exercise," lead study author Steve Faulkner from Loughborough University wrote. Other studies have shown that a nice long soak can help men naturally lower their blood pressure.

Neroli moisturizing body & bathing oil, $100 by Czech & Speake and wild argan oil bubbling bath, $14 / $8.40 by The Body Shop

A hot shower can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving your body feeling itchy and looking dry and dull. But soaking in a warm bath can be great for your skin, if you do it right. First, add a nourishing bath oil, which will absorb into the skin and hydrate your entire body. Secondly, use a wash cloth, loofah or body scrub to slough away dead skin and rough patches. When you dry off, your skin will feel and look brand new.

Neroli moisturizing body & bathing oil, $100 by Czech & Speake and wild argan oil bubbling bath, $14 / $8.40 by The Body Shop

This can be a great way to show someone how much you care about them. Drawing them a bath, putting in the effort to make it as relaxing and indulgent as possible, makes for one hell of a grand romantic gesture. Now, it could be something you do just for them or it could be something you do for the two of you. Sharing a bath with someone is a sensual and fun experience. It's like skinny-dipping, only more intimate. I don't need to tell you what to do once you're in there, but I'll leave you with a gentle reminder. You know how good it feels when your barber or hairstylist washes your hair? Yeah. Run with that. After all, the couple that bathes together ...