Ever have those days when you just want to run away from parenting and/or responsibilities in general? Maybe the day started out okay but, after a million or so mishaps, tantrums and work problems you just feel SO. OVER. THE. DAY. Yeah, me too. Which is why I love baths so much. Sitting in a relaxing bath helps me destress, unwind and feel good.
I’ve made bath time part of my self-care routine to help wash away worries and stress. If you’re ready to up your bath (and self-care) game I’ve got some tips for you.
6 Tips on how to Prep a Relaxing Bath for Busy Moms
Timing really is everything
As a mom I totally know how hard it can be to carve out self-care time. Heck, it’s hard to find the time to use the bathroom alone. I get it! So, to get the most out of a relaxing bath, you need to time it just right.
If you’ve got a partner, let them know you’ll be in the bath, with the door locked, and hoping for no interruptions. My husband does a great job of keeping the kids away from me when I need self-care time.
If you’ve got no one to watch the kids consider bedtime or nap time. Back when my husband was out of town a lot (super stressful for me) I planned my relaxing baths after the kids went to bed. This worked out perfectly since I was super relaxed by the time my bedtime rolled around.
Dim the lights or light some candles
I have two favorite candles for baths: unscented, plain candles from Trader Joe’s and the all soy candles in Palo Alto and Sage scent from Veladora.
Sitting in a bath surrounded by candlelight makes the experience so much better.
Water temperature is important
When I first started out with baths I would make sure the water temperature was the hottest I could possibly stand. Which meant I didn’t actually bathe for long because the water was way too hot and I would get crazy muscle spasms in my back. It took me forever to realize if I used warmer water (instead of scalding hot) I’d enjoy bath time a lot more.
Bath Products I use for a relaxing bath:
- body wash
to create bubbles
- Dr. Teal’s
epsom bath salts
That’s it! I try to keep things as easy as possible and self-care has to be easy and feel luxurious or I won’t do it!
Music is a must for a spa-like feel
I have an Amazon Echo Dot
If I’m really into an Audible
Bring in your favorite book, show & drinks
And don’t forget the water! I always get thirsty when I’m in the bath and it’s a pain to scream ask for water. Usually, I’ll grab my water bottle, a glass of wine (or coffee if it’s a morning bath) and a book.
I was so afraid of dropping my books or phone into the bath so I had my husband help with making a bath board.
It’s not perfect or fancy but it works perfect and that’s what I love.
If I had the time to take a bath every day I would, it’s so relaxing to me. And 99% of the time my family leaves me alone (shocking right?) because they know how much I value my self-care time. This is pretty much what I do:
- Get the candles lit around the bathtub
- Draw the bath and add the body wash to make bubbles + the bath salts
- Tell Alexa to play some spa music
- Go grab a drink, my phone and a book
- Last step: relax & enjoy!
I love this type of self-care because I can do it at home (vs. going to a spa) during a time that works for me and the family. Plus, it’s cheap and feels super luxurious!
So go ahead, draw that bath, sip your wine and relax girl. You deserve it!
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