Do yourself a huge favor in 2021 and don’t allow 2020 to follow you there! There’s a saying on Pinterest “ Don’t ruin a good today by thinking about a bad yesterday.” We can say the same about the year 2020. Yes, there were crises and challenges, but there was unlimited potential for growth, as a country, nation, but as an individual. Did you learn what you were supposed to? “Self-care is essential to success.”
Hi, I’m Toni Reid. Nice to virtually meet you! I’m a certified travel agent, owner of across N abroad Travel. One of the most important instructions given by the airline has always been how to put the mask on your own face! We had no idea it would require us to wear a mask one block from our home just to get milk. I know- you may travel with your loved ones: mom, dad, children, spouse… and the reaction you may have is, “I’ll think of others first! Save them to show I care!” But you cannot help anyone if you’re not here. And we need to be here for our family and to seize our own new opportunities. It’s not selfish to save yourself first! My goal is to expose (no pun intended) you to insights that feature beauty, culture, and adventure, all under the umbrella of self-care and safety first. Sometimes you can have that right in your backyard; other times you must step outside of your comfort zone to have this experience. across N abroad Travel has a mission to facilitate travel comfortability, whether you do so solo or with a group.
All people are sensitive to their environment. Some more than others. The pandemic made us more aware of where we are and the conditions under which we conduct our daily lives. I found that navigating what used to be simple tasks, left me exhausted; needing relaxation and self-care. I began searching for easy and economical ways to accomplish this goal. I found that many cultures use the ritual of salt baths. Through my travels, I gained an appreciation for this ancient therapeutic regime. There are many spas around the world that inspire us to practice this art of self-love.
The Origins
Ancient Greeks believed baths could draw out toxins from our bodies and soothe our nerves. Romans believed the ritual of increasing water temperatures to hot (thermos) and then to cold (frigidarium) would relax our body. If you visit Athen, Greece today, you would see a bathing ruin from 3rd and 4th A. D. existing under a canopy of the Athens Subway. It’s within walking distance from the National Gardens and Temple of Olympian Zeus. Definitely a must-see on your trip to Athens.
If you are thinking of bathing as just a means to get clean, you could miss out!
Are Salt Baths Good For You?
When you soak in a bath of salt, it is important to note that not just any salt will do. The salt most effective is not really a salt; at least not like your table salt, although one of them could be... The theory has it -the proper bath salts can relax muscles, reduce stress, and loosen stiff joints. Sounds good to you? Two of the most popular are the Dead Sea Salt and Epson Salt and … Yes! I believe they are good for you.
Salts... ( What are the ingredients and how to use:)
You can use your bath salt in two different ways. It is important to note that Epsom salt or Dead Sea Salts are not really salt, but Magnesium that have various soothing properties. They are called salts simply because the crystals look like salt. Do your research and buy high-quality salts that have few additives except for maybe essential oils. Then, when you are ready to bathe, simply wet your skin, use a soft cloth dipped in the salt sand your favorite body cleanser and directly apply on your skin in a small circular motion starting from your feet upward towards your heart or; you could dissolve the salts into your entire bath water for overall results. Some brands cater to specific mental or physical ailments by adding additional ingredients like essential oils designed to relax and soothe.
Lavender, Rosehip, Frankincense, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Cypress, Roman Chamomile and Orange oils are just a few oils that can be added for their various healing, soothing or energetic elements. Some are so relaxing you must be sure to use caution when exiting the bath. Do your homework and find the right essential oil for your needs. In fact, why not create a menu of recipes for your bathing experience! Just like our food, purchase quality salts and oils that have fewer and natural added ingredients.
Dead Sea Salts harvested from Jordan, Israel, Palestine are said to contain 21 minerals that our bodies can easily absorb in order to conquer depression, inflammation, and migraines.
Epsom Salts are noted for recovering from sports injuries, swollen joints and aches, and pain.
My favorite two are: Spa Restore Epsom Bath Salts by The White Company and AHAVA Dead Sea Mineral Bath Salt
We use bath salts for bathing by mixing in water or scrubbing on skin. Bath salts have not only beauty benefits, but various health benefits as well. Different bath salt brands provide intense relaxation to mental and physical ailments.
What Are The Benefits?
Loughborough University scientists investigated the effect of a hot “salt” bath. Wanna know what they found? When a tense body enters a warm bath, it raises the body temperature and relaxes the muscles. Salt baths can produce positive feelings, boosts self-confidence and self-esteem. They can also detoxify, suppress pain, relieve stress, hydrate skin, refresh and improve circulation. As always, consult your doctor before adopting a new regimen.
How to Enjoy a Good Salt Bath
First, check with your doctor about how long and how often you should soak with a salt. Follow the instructions on the package about dosage. Find your favorite salt and your favorite chill song. For me, right now, "Live Out Your Love Featuring Toni Braxton" by Kem, Thank You by Estelle, and Emotional Rollercoaster by Vivian Green. By the way- don’t miss our February blogs featuring “All things Love”. You’ve now set the tone for a wonderful experience:
As a Bath - Add salt and essential oil (if desired) to water while running and swirl your hands to disperse. Dim the lights and add a candle such as the plant-derived Lavender Terra Candle by P.F. Candle Co. or use battery-operated options. Prepare water for drinking from your favorite glass to hydrate your body while you are likely to sweat, turn on your favorite playlist, hang your Do Not Disturb sign, and close the door. Enjoy…
In the Shower - Sprinkle bath salts along the floor of the shower and hang a eucalyptus plant from the showerhead. Steam helps activate and release those oils into the air, allowing you to breathe in a cleansing aromatic which feels like a personal aromatherapy sauna just for you. And just like a bath, set the mood with candles and music.
As an exfoliant - Salt is too abrasive for our delicate faces but perfect for trouble spots like elbows, knees, and the bottoms of the feet. Safely secure your stance or seat and massage the salt onto your feet with circular motions. Prepare to receive the removal of dead skin and revealing of glowing skin. Paint those toes and moisturize until the next pedicure.
