In our stress-filled world, many of us consider a good, long bathtub soak to be the height of relaxation. This was confirmed in a study by the Benchmaking Company that found that 93% of women surveyed gave “relaxation” as a reason for taking a bath. (Oddly enough, only 31% mentioned “getting clean” was a reason for bathing.)
Since so many of us highly value this precious time, it's worth knowing a few things to make the experience the best it can be.
Most of us don’t think of the bathroom as a dangerous place, but bathroom slips and falls are a significant risk, especially for seniors. To maximize safety, place non-slip mats or stickers on the bottom of the tub to keep your feet from slipping while entering and exiting the tub. Ensuring your tub is clean and sanitized for the best experience is equally important.
Baths can be soothing and an excellent way to unwind, but they can be unhealthy if you stay in the water too long. Remember the signs posted next to public hot tubs about the maximum time limit in the water? The same applies to your bath at home. Bath times should be limited to around ten or twenty minutes. Longer hot water soaks can cause skin dehydration, which can lead to dryness and cracking. Prolonged exposure to hot water can also cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and overheating, especially in older adults.
To ensure you don't lose track of time, set a timer, alarm clock, or cellphone nearby so you can know when to get out. However, be very careful to keep plugged-in electrical devices well away from the water.
With age, our skin becomes more sensitive. That means hotter temperatures can cause burns, inflammation, dizziness, nausea, and dry skin. The ideal temperature for a warm yet comfortable bath is 98 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, right around normal body temperature.
For the best bath possible, the right tools make a difference. For example, inflatable pillows, soft towels, sweet-smelling toiletries, and loofahs can take a bathing experience up a notch.
To enhance your bath experience, try things like bath salts, essential oils, bath bombs, bath bars, or other pampering add-ins. Including a little Epsom salt in your bathwater will not only relax muscles and soothe your skin, but it also reduces inflammation and eases symptoms of arthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia.
Sometimes our bathrooms can seem pretty dull. So, try adding a little ambiance to upgrade your bath experience. Bring a battery-powered radio or Bluetooth speaker and play some calming tunes. Maybe burn a few candles (safely), spray some essential oils in the air, or add them to your bathwater. You'll shortly find that just a few additions to bathing will take you to a new level of paradise.
Whether you like to relax with a novel or stay up to date with current events, reading is one of the best activities to enjoy while bathing. Whether you use a book, magazine, or waterproof e-reader in the tub, cozying up with your favorite read in warm, soapy water will take you to a world of relaxation and peace. Experienced in-the-tub readers swear by bathtub trays that span over the water to provide a convenient, dry space for reading material, drinks, or a small towel.
Even if we don’t linger in the tub too long, dry skin can still pose a problem. To stay moisturized, use a soft towel to dry off completely, then apply lotion. Also, always make sure to drink water to replenish the moisture removed by the bath.
Bath time is an excellent opportunity for self-care. The best way is to surround ourselves with things that make us feel serene and relaxed. Scented candles, essential oils, atmospheric music, and the perfect water temperature can take those precious minutes in the tub to another level.
In the comments below, let us know: How do you make your bath enjoyable?
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