I am one for soaking in the tub with bath salts, lighting a few candles, and listening to a little frank Sinatra. This usually occurs sometime during November when the weather is cool and my bathroom is full of warm scents like vanilla and fig. So when temps hit over a hundred and a hot bath doesnt seem all that tempting, I long for a little “Come Fly With Me.”
So I have decided, this summer, that I am going to find an alternative that will make me feel just as good and help me relax. Try these summer inspired alternatives to your cold weather favorites.
If you are itching to hit the bath after a long day at work but can’t fathom the idea of sitting in hot water for 20 minutes try filling the tub with cool or lukewarm water (not ice cold that will cause more tension).
Martha Stewart has the perfect replacement for bubbles and lavender scented Epsom salt, try a tea ball instead. To make a bath infuser, try filling the ball with soothing Epsom salts and sweet-smelling, relaxing linden flowers; then add a few drops of scented oil (be careful, the oil can stain clothing). Screw on the top tightly, and, for the sachet, attach a handle of ribbon or seam binding through the loop on top of the container. Lemongrass, mint, and orange are all great summer choices.
Add some cold cucumber slices to your eyes and refreshing cucumber water for the perfect summer refresher.
Replace that warm scented candle with an invigorating scent like Tahitian Lime or Pink Grapefruit from Archipelago Botanicals. Or for something a bit more relaxing try a soothing White Tea candle from Westin Heavenly Bed. Candles at Nordstrom.
After a relaxing bath there is nothing like lathering on luxurious body lotion to keep your skin soft and smooth after a bath. Instead of finding the thickest whipped body butter switch it up with a light weight lotion with SPF like Kiehl’s Creme de Corp… You’ll never forget your sunscreen again!
Or try Ahava’s Dry Oil Body Mist which blends oils and anti-aging nutrients leaving skin soft and glowing without that oily feel. A truly novel idea–non-oily oil.
Lastly replace the Frank Sinatra on your ipod with some Colbie Caillat, Jason Mraz, and Corinne Bailey Rae for some relaxing yet happy and upbeat tunes…and most importantly enjoy yourself and enjoy your summer.
By Kristianne Young
