They say a perfect bath should take you back to the time you were still in your mother’s womb; snug, warm and completely peaceful. However, our humdrum lives have forced us to reduce baths to just  ordinary routines whereby we just turn on the water, soap up, scrub, rinse off, and we are done.

If you are looking for some much needed R&R a proper bath will definitely relax both your body and your mind. Before you step in, here’s how to soak in the tub the right way.

For maximum effect, take a quick shower to remove all the dirt from your body and scrub off the tub to remove any residues from the shower.

Fill your tub with lukewarm to hot water and add in 10-15 drops of your favorite essential oils for a soothing scent that will put your body and mind at ease. If bubbles, bath bombs or body salts are your preference, now is the time to drop them in.

If you don’t want to get your hair wet, tie it up in a bun.  Set the mood by lighting some of your favorite candles, playing some soothing music.  As tempting as it may be to have your phone nearby, we suggest you don’t. Let yourself unplug for a while.

When the water starts to cool down, turn the faucet and let some hot water run to reheat the tub. Hot baths are known to reduce cramps, headaches and even help with colds.

Once you’re ready to lather up, use a creamy body wash which keeps skin clean and moisturized. Then let the water drain and give yourself a quick rinse in the shower to wash away any remaining soap. Pat your body dry and then apply a full body moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated after the warm bath and you’re good to go.

Some don’ts. . .

Don’t take hot baths because they dry out your skin by removing the natural oils.

Don’t use soaps that contain alkalines that dry your skin. Look soaps with lots of oils to make sure you stay moisturized.

Don’t rub the towel over your skin because it takes away much of the little moisture left after you bathe. Patting your skin locks in moisture, and will keep your skin looking radiant.

Don’t use light lotions. Go for products like coconut oil, shea and cocoa butter. These usually have thicker, more solid and greasy consistencies and come in tubs rather than bottles. And absolutely stay away from alcohol-based products.