Take The Waters

The word spa comes from the Latin phrase salus per aquam, "health via water." Hydrotherapy is the basis of European kurs, mineral water-based treatments that incorporate hot and cold soaks, steam, baths, showers and the drinking of mineral water to help aid specific ailments. You can create this experience in your own bath to tap into the health-promoting benefits of water. 

1. Take a five-minute shower to soften your skin. Turn off the shower, and using a handful of sugar scrub, gently rub it over your skin, beginning at neck (avoid your face!). Work down to your feet. Rinse off the sugar with warm water, then slowly decrease the temperature and stand in cool water for about two minutes to prepare you for a hot soak. Pat yourself dry. 

2. For centuries, Europeans have "taken the waters", soaking in and drinking mineral water from local hot springs for their curative benefits. Even the water in a home bath can offer great benefits. Simply fill a tub high enough to immerse your body completely. Add 1/2 cup of mineral bath salts to the water and mix them until dissolved. Ease into the tub, lie back, close your eyes, and simply rest for at least 20 minutes, breathing slowly and deeply. Inhale deeply through your nose to fill your belly. Exhale slowly through your mouth. 

3. During this ritual, you may perspire, it's important to keep the body well hydrated. Pour yourself a glass of cool mineral water prior to entering the tub, and drink often as you soak. After you finish your bath, dry yourself off and put a warm robe on as you prepare for your at-home body wrap. Refill your water glass and keep it nearby. You'll want to continue drinking lots of water after the treatment. 

4. Your resting wrap. A rest period is the most important step of a bathing ritual. During this time your parasympathetic nervous system works to restore your body. Spread two or three heavy blankets on a bed or over a chaise. Use a soft blanket on your skin. Remove your robe and lie on the blankets, wrapping them comfortably around your body. With eyes closed, rest for 20 – 30 minutes.

AROMATHERAPY IMMERSION BATH

In Germany, entire spa programs have been developed to incorporate the power of essential oils into treatment, including immersion baths, which infuse baths with active beneficial agents such as herbal extracts and essential oils. To enhance your bathing ritual, try an infusion. Add four drops each of Ylang-Ylang, geranium and rose essential oils to your bath. Ylang Ylang is euphoric, geranium helps balance emotions, and rose is sensual and calming.