Baths have been a significant part of my life for over four years now. Before then, I had taken baths only as a luxury on those days that my husband wanted to pamper me. He would draw me a bubble bath, light some candles, and distract the kids for over an hour so that I could take time to myself. His intentions were sweet and appreciated, but as I lay there thinking about all of the things I needed to do it was hard for me to relax. I would start to feel guilty that I was taking time away from the kids, my husband, the laundry, the housework, the chores, etc. Back then, I truly didn’t appreciate how a bath could completely transform my mood and clarify my thoughts.
It all began with a gift of a bubble bar purchased from Lush that was given to me by my dear friend Diana. I had just started as the Director of Admissions and Marketing for a small private elementary school and I was a bit overwhelmed with all the work that lie ahead of me. Diana and I quickly formed a cherished bond and valued friendship. Her gift of a bubble bar was her way of saying to me that I needed to relax and do something for myself before the anxiety of work completely consumed me. So I took the plunge, sunk my body beneath the bubbles, took a deep breath and RELAXED! I was able to collect my thoughts and prioritize my duties so that I was in control and organized. Creative ideas spontaneously manifested during my daily soaks and work became more manageable. It was pure bliss and baths quickly became habitual. The only thing missing was a waterproof tape recorder to dictate my great ideas so that I would remember them all, but without the recorder I couldn’t remind myself I needed one!
The bath is now a daily ritual and a necessity to keep harmony within myself. I realize that this is the closest I will ever come to meditating and I embrace it. I have created a mock paradise that allows me to get completely lost in my own thoughts whether silly or philosophical. In my warm water cocoon negativity is washed away, probable solutions to world peace are discovered, and my overall attitude is transformed. Baths are mini therapy sessions where as I emerge from the bubbles to start my day the future looks bright from every angle and I feel more alive and hopeful than ever. Sustaining this positivity can be challenging when faced with the real world, but in 24 hours I know I will get to do it all over again.
Over the last couple years my baths have evolved and I have taken bathing to a whole new level. I have become a bath aficionado. I strive to create the perfect ambiance during bath time that will enchant my senses and transport me to a place of tranquility. The aromas of the products I use are meticulously considered for the ultimate bathing experience. I am a mad scientist working towards my Doctorate in Whiff Permutation as I formulate the perfect scent combinations!
Chocolate Orange Bath:
Lush Brightside Bubble Bar
Hershey's Chocolate Scented Candle
The Body Shop Satsuma Beautifying Oil - I use this for shaving
The Body Shop Satsuma Soap
The Body Shop Chocomania Body Scrub
Baths may never be your thing, but my wish to you is that you find something you look forward to doing that balances and centers you each and every day.
What do you do to start your day off right? Please share in the comment box below. I would love to hear other ideas and suggestions.
Photo Credits: Thank you, Shannon Vanderford
Clip Art Credits: See links above for all product information
Orange Picture from www.hdwallpapersos.com
Chocolate Dipped Orange from www.chocolates-and-chocolate-candy.com
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