Aaah, The Mindful Bath

   As Sarah Ban Breathnach so eloquently describes in her book Romancing The Ordinary: "Your hand grasps the chrome tap, and with one quick turn a waterfall of delight gushes into the porcelain tub. With only the slightest forethought or effort you have performed a divine conjuring act. In an instant, the elixir of life. Even today, incredulous millions around the world shake their heads with wonder at such a sight."

    Yes, the pouring of the bath is something we should not take for granted. It is also an equalizer; we all lie there naked awaiting a transformation of mind, body and spirit ~ no matter who we are or where we are in our life's journey. Queen Elizabeth is said to enjoy long baths with fragrant, homemade bath salts. My wish for her and all of us is to be mindful and embrace the relaxation that the warm bath can bring. The Queen, I suspect, might have a passing thought about the naming of her next grandchild as we, too, have passing thoughts. Being mindful is to put all those thoughts aside for twenty minutes and soak and feel and luxuriate. Keep pushing the thoughts aside and just be. Be mindful~ enjoy the scent, the warmth, your quiet mind. (Yes, you can do this!)

    My dear friend was kind enough to give me a few wonderful bday bathing gifts this past weekend. My first important tip if you have a porcelain or marble (aka. icey cold tub) is to run the hottest water for a few inches in the tub & let it sit and warm before you escape into paradise. Meanwhile, heat the room & prepare towels, robe, candles, to be ready for your exit. Drain & refill the tub now and enjoy an additive of your choice. I love my gift of Dr. Teal's Epsom Salt scented soaking salt in Soothe & Sleep Lavender (also provides the body with the much needed mineral magnesium). Or try Aveeno's Stress Relief Foaming Bath which moisturizes dry skin with soothing oatmeal. Whatever you choose, remember to also choose a time when you can be mindful & relax.