Burnout is real. When we get so embroiled in our hustling and meeting work-life pressures, we often take self-care on the back burner. Without taking time to pause from the grind, stress can build up and may manifest through physical and mental symptoms like headaches, tension in the neck or shoulders, fatigue, poor sleep, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, irritability and even depression. 

Relaxation is paramount to managing stress. It enables the flow of blood to increase around our body, giving us more energy and a calmer, clearer mind. It also slows our heart rate while reducing blood pressure and relieving tension. 

One of the most natural, effective and inexpensive ways to reduce stress levels is to schedule in 30 minutes of me-time in the tub at least once a week. If you’re the type who doesn’t know how to relax and want to know how you can keep your hustle alive without feeling lethargic all the time, a warm bath can help you slow down and break you away from mental distractions. While a warm bath is therapeutic on its own, to make it even more relaxing than it already is, we like to toss in a bath bomb for an extra dose of sensory pleasure. 

 

What are bath bombs? 

Bath bombs were first invented by the brand Lush in 1989 but the patent expired in 2009, paving way for other manufacturers to create their own versions of fizzy balls that you throw into your bath for a multi-sensory bath experience. When a bath bomb breaks in water, it gives out the iconic powerful fizz while slowly releasing the scents, colors, moisturizing oils and additives like petals and glitters into the water which can be very fascinating to watch.

 

Why do people use bath bombs?

Not only are bath bombs fun and mood enahncing, but they are amazing for self-care and deep relaxation when the stress meter has gone into the red. Bath bombs can come in a wide range of soothing ingredients and moisturizing emollients that infuses your bath water with, helping alleviate a myriad of issues like minor body aches, tight muscles, skin dryness, rashes and itchiness. 

Not all bath bombs are made the same though so what works for another may not work for you. However, the main deciding factor should come down to its ingredients. It’s really what’s on the inside and what you submerge your body into - that will make a lot of difference.

 

What are some of the ingredients to look for in bath bombs?

Look for natural ingredients like plant-derived base oils and emollients. They are built-in with a multitude of soothing and skin-healing properties inherent to nature and will not disrupt the skin’s pH balance. 

 

Organic Shea Butter

Shea butter is a rich emollient extracted from the nut of the African Shea fruit. It is known to heal sunburned, cracked, and peeling skin as well as regenerates damaged skin cells. It makes an excellent moisturizer during the colder seasons and promotes a softer, plumper skin.  

 

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is a non-volatile oil pressed from the seeds of sunflowers. It is non-comedogenic which means it is safe to use for people of all types of skin including acne-prone. It is also rich in Vitamins A and E to protect skin from premature aging and free radicals. 

 

Sea Salt

Sea salt or Vitamin Sea comes from evaporated sea water and by nature, it contains anti-inflammatory properties that make a great pain reliever especially for those suffering from arthritis, rheumatism, joint pain, eczema and contracted muscles. It is also packed with healing minerals that makes it a miracle ingredient for acne and infections. It’s also a natural exfoliant that helps slough off dead skin and inhibit the growth of pimple-causing bacteria. 

 

CBD Oil

Some bath bombs are infused with CBD or cannabidiol which is a natural plant-derived ingredient that works to fight inflammation and improve skin tone. It is also rich in antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-aging properties that help reduce signs of aging. Other conditions CBD is commonly used to address are chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety and insomnia. 

 

What about essential oils or fragrance oils?

Essential oils and fragrance oils make bath bombs smell so heavenly. People enjoy the aromatherapy benefits of a bath bomb soak but other than helping you sleep better and boost feelings of relaxation, fragrance plays another crucial role. Unique smelling bath bombs evoke nostalgic feelings and has the power to uncloud our minds with happy thoughts and vivid memories. 

 

How to use bath bombs for relaxation

When you recognize the need to retreat in a good long soak, preparation is the precursor to success. First, ensure uninterrupted me-time and secure yourself against unexpected distractions. Next, while running the hot water to a comfortable bath temperature between 90° F and 105°F, gather all your essentials like your favorite bath bomb, go-to glass of wine, good book, eye mask and a caddy to keep everything close by without fear of things falling in the water. 

Once the water reaches 2 to 3 inches above the top of the filter, you can unwrap the bath bomb and toss it in the water. As the bath bomb dissolves, it will begin to turn your bath into a dreamy and fragrant oasis of moisturizing oils. Immerse your naked self in the natural goodness of a bath bomb soak and go right into relaxation mode! 

Relaxing in a warm bath slows down your heart rate, relieves tension, reduces blood pressure and helps circulate blood flow to boost energy. A warm bath also induces feelings of peace and easiness, the kind of security that allows your mind and body to relax. If you’re feeling anxious, a warm bath can help release endorphins and regulate your mood by activating your parasympathetic nervous system, the part responsible for inducing relaxation. Studies have shown that your body will begin to experience lower levels of stress as your nervous system adjusts to the warming effect of the water. 

While you loosen up in the tub and start feeling the comfort and solace, the bath bomb works by helping sooth mild physical discomfort and aiding your skin with its skin-repairing properties. 

 

Final words: are bath bombs really therapeutic?

Here is a fact. A warm bath is therapeutic on its own. It promotes good quality sleep, soothes muscles and joints, helps improve mental health, clear airways and induces relaxation with or without a bath bomb. However, if you’re looking to add a boost to your self-care game and want to truly enjoy what can be quite a monotonous event - bath bombs are the perfect pick-me-up bath accessories! If you haven’t tried these bath drops and wonder what the fuss is all about, drop one of our effervescent delights and experience the magic yourself!