What Can I Put in My Bath Water to Relieve Stress?

A well-prepared bath can melt away stress and help you feel calm and rejuvenated. Whether you’ve had a long day or just need a little time for yourself, certain ingredients added to your bath can help you unwind, soothe your body, and calm your mind. Let’s explore some simple yet effective ingredients you can add to your bath water to relieve stress.

1. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is a popular and powerful addition to any stress-relieving bath. Made of magnesium sulfate, it’s known for its ability to relax muscles, ease tension, and promote a sense of calm.

• Why It Works: Magnesium is essential for many bodily functions, and when absorbed through the skin, it helps reduce inflammation and muscle tightness, both of which contribute to physical and emotional stress.
• How to Use: Add about 1-2 cups of Epsom salt to your bath and soak for at least 20 minutes. Not only will it help relax your muscles, but it can also detoxify your skin.

Pro Tip: Epsom salt can be combined with other calming bath ingredients like essential oils for an even more relaxing experience.

2. Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is well-known for its soothing, calming effects, making it a perfect addition to your bath if you’re looking to de-stress. The fragrance of lavender has been shown to help reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and promote better sleep. Our Dreamland soak is lightly scented with lavender for a relaxing effect.

• Why It Works: Lavender essential oil interacts with the brain’s neurotransmitters, encouraging a sense of calm and relaxation. Its gentle aroma can instantly transport you into a state of peace.
• How to Use: Add about 10 drops of lavender essential oil to your bath water. You can also mix the oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil before adding it to the bath to protect your skin from irritation.

Pro Tip: For an even more relaxing atmosphere, light a lavender-scented candle or play soft, calming music while soaking in your lavender bath.

3. Chamomile 

Chamomile is another fantastic way to bring stress relief to your bath. Known for its soothing properties, chamomile is often used in teas to promote relaxation, but it works wonders in a bath as well.

• Why It Works: Chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory and calming effects. Its soothing properties can help reduce physical tension and calm your mind.
• How to Use: Add a few drops of chamomile essential oil bags to your bath Let the warm water steep the chamomile, creating a calming infusion for your bath.

Pro Tip: Dreamland has a combination of chamomile and lavender for an ultra-relaxing bath that will leave you feeling refreshed and calm.

4. Oatmeal

You may think of oatmeal as a breakfast staple, but it can also be a key ingredient in a relaxing bath. Oatmeal has natural moisturizing properties that soothe and nourish dry, irritated skin, making it a great choice for a calming bath. Our Coco Escape is an elevated oatmeal bath. They warm vanilla and coconut essential oils whisk the day’s tension away. 

• Why It Works: Oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory compounds that help calm your skin and body. Soaking in an oatmeal bath can ease skin irritation, stress, and even minor aches and pains.
• How to Use: Add 1 cup of ground oatmeal to your bathwater. To avoid a mess, you can place the oatmeal in a cloth bag or pantyhose and tie it to your faucet, allowing the water to run through the oatmeal.

Pro Tip: Oatmeal baths are also perfect for people with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, as they provide relief without causing irritation.

     5.  Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common household ingredient, but it also has detoxifying and soothing properties when used in a bath. It helps neutralize acids in the skin and can reduce irritation, leaving you feeling refreshed and calm. *We also use baking soda in all of our soaks. 

• Why It Works: Baking soda can help balance your skin's pH and reduce stress-induced breakouts. It also has cleansing properties that can refresh your skin and help you feel rejuvenated.
• How to Use: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath and let it dissolve in the water. 

Pro Tip: Combine baking soda with a splash of your favorite essential oil to enhance the relaxing benefits of your bath.

      6.  Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is not only great for moisturizing your skin but also provides a soothing, calming effect when used in a bath. It leaves your skin soft, smooth, and hydrated while giving you a moment to unwind.  *We also use coconut oil in all of our soaks. 

• Why It Works: Coconut oil contains fatty acids that deeply hydrate and nourish your skin. Its soft, natural scent can also help you feel relaxed and pampered.
• How to Use: Add 2-3 tablespoons of coconut oil to your bathwater. It will melt into the water, leaving your skin feeling soft and moisturized.

Pro Tip: Be careful when getting out of the bath, as coconut oil can make the surface of your tub a bit slippery.

The next time you're feeling stressed or overwhelmed, draw yourself a warm bath, add one of these calming ingredients, and take some time to relax and recharge. Your body (and mind) will thank you!