Do you find it hard to unwind after a busy day at work? Do the problems and cares of the day make it difficult for you to switch into relaxation mode? One of the most effective ways to encourage your body to let go of stress is to take a relaxation bath. A relaxation bath is a special stress relieving bath that uses essential oils and soft, relaxing music to melt away your worries and help you sleep better.

To take a relaxation bath, you’ll need to choose essential oils that have calming properties. Three of the best are lavender, chamomile, and rose geranium. You’ll also need a CD of soothing, new age instrumental music and a comfortable bath pillow for your bath. Another alternative is to play a CD with gentle sounds of nature such as the roar of ocean waves or the soft, relaxing patter of raindrops. Once you’ve gathered your supplies, it’s time to prepare your bath.

Put on the music before drawing your bath water to allow your body to prepare for your relaxation bath. Playing soft music can lower the heart rate, blood pressure and put your mind into a state of relaxation almost immediately. Keep the music low in the background to keep it from being too distracting.  

Start filling the bathtub with warm, soothing water. Once the bathtub is full, add three drops each of lavender, chamomile, and rose geranium essential oils. You can vary the ratio of the three essential oils to meet your tastes. You can also add additional essential oil, if you like a stronger smelling bath.

Slip into the warm, scented water and relax on your bath pillow. Close your eyes as you visualize your cares melting into the warm water to be carried down the drain when you finally release the plug. Feel the warmth and breathe in the sweet scent of the relaxing essential oils. Spend at least twenty minutes in the scented water enjoying the pleasant feeling of your relaxation bath, then dry yourself off with a thick towel and apply a natural body lotion, preferably in a lavender scent, to your body. You should feel relaxed and free of stress.

There are a variety of other essential oils that work well for a relaxation bath including marjoram, benzoin, and clary sage. You can also place small tea candles around the sides of the bathtub and bathe by candlelight if you find it more relaxing than the glare of the harsh bathroom lights.

When you’re bogged down by work and you wonder if you’ll get through the day, remind yourself that there’s a relaxation bath waiting for you at home. It’s something special to look forward to that’s just for you.