Baths are touted as the ultimate form of self-care. My goal isn’t to promote this stereotypical form of self-care (which you can find all over Instagram). I believe self-care is about more than a bath experience. It’s a lifestyle choice.

Self-care is about saying, “I’m going to intentionally take care of myself so I’m fueled up for this life I get to live.” When we do this, we’re better able to serve as a mom, wife, girlfriend, sister, teacher, boss…whatever you’ve been called to in this season of life.

I’ve found that thinking about self-care in terms of 3 lifestyle categories, or lifestyle questions, is helpful. Doing this makes self-care more approachable for everyday life.

• Category 1 Simplify: How can I simplify my life to promote self-care?
• Category 2 Add: What can I add to my life to promote self-care?
• Category 3 Delete: What can I delete or delegate in my life to promote self-care?

I shared all about this approach to self-care on the podcast.

What I’ve added to my life has changed based on the seasons of my life. A couple of years ago, I added barre classes to my routine to get more exercise. Then, last year, our schedule as a family changed and I had to find a way to exercise closer to our home and the kids’ school.

In the past, baths haven’t been something that I’ve considered as self-care, but over the last few months, they’ve become something that I’ve added to my life and look forward to on a weekly basis.

I’m not here to tell you that you have to take baths. Or that baths are the ultimate form of self-care. What you add to your life, in the name of self-care, is entirely up to you. Do what makes you feel good, what recharges you, what fills up your tank.

If a bath is something that appeals to you, something you would like to add to your life, today’s post is for you. Let’s talk about my favorite bath ritual…a detox bath.

A detox bath is a way of removing toxins from the body. Toxins don’t just show up in the chemical form (as many of us might think about), but also in the form of stress, tension, and constantly being attached to our phones (social media, email). This can take a toll on our body. Also, a side note, skin is our largest organ so soaking in a warm bath is a great way to sweat and pull toxins that have built up.

A detox bath is a way to relax, recharge, and “detox” from all the things that may be pulling you in a million different directions. It’s a way of saying, “For the next few minutes, I’m going to put my phone down and shut my mind off. I’m going to relax and recharge.”

It’s okay to do that.

In fact, I would say this is essential for our well-being.

Is it essential to take a detox bath? No, absolutely not. But it is essential to take breaks, to turn off the ringer or email notifications, to unplug from constant stimulation. For me, that’s what a detox bath is all about.

A detox bath starts with a bathtub and warm water. Bath salts, in the form of epsom salt or sea salt, are added to the water, along with clay and/or apple cider vinegar.

Before you turn on the bath water, you’ll need to make bath salts. That’s why I shared a homemade bath salts recipe last week. The bath salts are the foundation of your detox bath, followed by clay and/or apple cider vinegar. Below, I’ll share each of the ingredients used to make the bath salts.

Salt

You can use either epsom salt or sea salt to make to bath salts, or you can use a combo of both. Epsom salt is not technically a salt like sea salt; rather, it’s a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. Epsom salt is commonly used to ease muscle soreness and calm tension. Epsom salt is easy to find at most stores. Bags or boxes are usually sold in the supplement section or near the pharmacy.

Sea salt (not table salt) is rich in naturally-occurring minerals. Bathing in sea salt may help restore drained minerals that are essential to the body. Sea salt can be found in most stores.

Personally, I usually go with epsom salt to make my bath salts. But I’ve also experimented with half sea salt and half epsom salt, or just 100% sea salt. The choice is up to you. Go with the option that you enjoy the most–this may take some experimenting, or you may want to go with both.

Aromatherapy (Optional) 

Along with epsom salt and/or sea salt, you can add an aromatic experience with essential oils. You can also create this experience with dried herbs, but I’ve found herbs to be an annoying addition because the tiny bits stick to the bathtub after draining the water. Leftover bits mean that I have to now clean my bathtub, after a relaxing bath. See the irony in this?

You can go with one single essential oil, a combo of essential oils, or a blend of oils (such as the blends from Plant Therapy or your favorite essential oil company). I usually go with a single essential oil, like lavender essential oil (relaxing and promotes restful sleep). Other single essential oil options: orange, frankincense, bergamot, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Avoid essential oils that can irritate or burn the skin, such as: cinnamon, oregano, peppermint, and clove.

It’s important to dilute the essential oils used in your bath salts. It doesn’t matter what brand you use, you need to dilute, dilute, dilute. We’re talking about very potent substances. Natural, but also potent. So let’s talk about what you need to dilute the essential oil(s) for safe usage…

Carrier or Nourishing Oil (Optional) 

If you want to add the aromatic benefit of essential oils, which just takes the bath to the next level, mix the essential oil(s) with a carrier/nourishing oil, such as: olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, or sweet almond oil. This step helps the oils disperse evenly throughout the bath water (once you take a bath).

The carrier oil shouldn’t make your bathtub slippery since we’re talking about a small amount mixed with a large amount of salts, but if it does, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda over your tub once you’re done with the bath and the water drains. Use your hands to rub the baking soda over the surface, or a sponge, and then rise it away with water. (PS: I use this method to clean our bathtub each week. No special cleaning formulas needed. Read more about how I use baking soda to clean my home, here.)

Clay and/or Apple Cider Vinegar 

Clay, naturally found on the earth, is considered to be a detoxifying ingredient. This is a regular ingredient in facial masks that are designed to help de-congest the skin.

Apple cider vinegar is another popular detox bath option. The water will smell like vinegar for the first few minutes, but then the smell disappears.

Personally, I find the clay to be a lovely addition and my go-to option. Sure, it makes the water murky, but I don’t mind that aspect. I find the odorless clay mixes well with the hot water. I recommend using bentonite clay (I’ve linked my favorite brand in the recipe) or French green clay.

Fill a bathtub with very warm water. Of course, use common sense when it comes to the temperature of the water. I love a very warm bath, but go with the temperature that feels most appropriate for you and your skin. Keep in mind, part of the goal of a detox bath is to sweat. So you want water that will be warm enough to aid in the sweating process.

While the tub fills with water, add your bath salts. (The essential oils will begin to evaporate in the warm water when you do this, but I find they’re still worth adding to the bath salts.) While the bath is filling up, I grab some water which I’ll drink during the bath. Since I usually sweat during the bath, it’s important that I keep myself hydrated. It’s best if the water is room temperature versus cold. I also make sure to drink lots of water post-bath as well.

I like to add around 2 cups per bath, but you can go as low as 1 cup. The bath salts should fully dissolve in the bath.  You might need to use your hands to help swish the salts around until fully dissolved.

Once the bath salts are added, add the clay or apple cider vinegar (or both). If you’re using bentonite clay, it’s important to avoid metal utensils. I usually add between 1/4-1/2 cup of clay per bath.  At first, the clay may look chunky in the water, but it should distribute after a few minutes. The clay won’t ever fully dissolve, so the bath water will appear a bit muddy or dirty. This is normal.

Once the bath is over and the water has drained from the tub, there will be clay (if using clay) remaining on the base of the tub. I usually turn the shower on for a minute to help the clay make its way to the drain, using my hand to aid in the process if needed.

I can only speak from my experience. I personally feel super relaxed, chill, and ready to sleep.

I’ve found that it’s best to take this kind of bath before bed, due to the tired feeling that can occur. I find this to be healthy–it’s like a natural melatonin for the body. It’s amazing how our body is able to naturally relax when we unplug and detox from all the things that keep us stimulated. Trust me, the work emails can wait until tomorrow.

Before resting, I always make sure to drink plenty of water. I highly recommend you do the same after a detox bath. You don’t want to feel tired because you’re dehydrated. You want to feel ready for bed because you’re relaxed.

Go with what feels best. Personally, based on my experience, I recommend not taking more than one detox bath a week. If you find that you can handle more, try adding a second bath to your routine–if desired.

If stepping into the bathtub once a week seems like too much, then only take a detox bath when you feel overly stressed or need some “me time.”

Last week, I was battling a cold and sinus infection and took a detox bath, twice. I honestly think the detox baths helped me tremendously. I was able to relax and sleep better after the baths. That said, typically, I find one bath a week is the perfect ritual for me.

Find a ritual, a rhythm and routine, that works for you. Or, just use a detox bath on occasion when you feel the need to relieve tension.

I’m not a medical expert and I’m definitely not claiming that a detox bath is going to somehow solve all your woes. Actually, it probably won’t. This is simply a bath ritual that I’ve come to love and found to be incredibly therapeutic.

Taking time to relax and recharge and detox is a good thing.  It’s good for the body, mind, and soul. And it’s particularly important that we intentionally take the time to do this–whatever this may look like for you. Maybe this is a long walk after dinner or a weekly bath. That, my friend, is what taking care of yourself is all about. It’s about intentionally caring for ourselves, and this looks different for every single person.

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Detox Bath

A detox bath is a way of removing toxins from the body. Toxins don't just show up in the chemical form (as many of us might think about), but also in the form of stress, tension, and constantly being attached to our phones (social media, email). This can take a toll on our body. Also, a side note, our skin is our largest organ so soaking in a warm bath is a great way to sweat and pull toxins that have built up.A detox bath is a way to relax, recharge, and "detox" from all the things that may be pulling you in a million different directions.

Course DIY

Cuisine Beauty, Body

Keyword detox bath

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 1 bath

Author Kristin Marr

Ingredients

• 1-2 cups homemade bath salts
• 1/4-1/2 cup bentonite clay or French green clay Or 1/2-1 cup apple cider vinegar

Special Equipment:

• non-metallic utensil for measuring the clay, if using bentonite clay

Instructions

Make Bath Salts:

• First, you'll need to make the bath salts. I shared an entire post about this, so I recommend reading this post first. To do this, you'll need a jar and 4 cups of epsom salt or sea salt (or a combination of both epsom salt and sea salt to equal 4 total cups), 1 TB nourishing oil, and 5-20 drops essential oil of choice. 

  Pour the salt of choice into the storage jar. In a small bowl, combine the nourishing oil of choice and essential oil of choice (between 5-20 drops, depending on aroma desired). Pour the oil blend into the bath salts and carefully stir to blend everything together. Seal the jar and store away from direct sunlight.

Take a Detox Bath:

• To take a detox bath, fill a bathtub with very warm water. Of course, use common sense when it comes to the temperature of the water. 
• While the tub fills with water, add your bath salts. (The essential oils will begin to evaporate in the warm water when you do this, but I find they're still worth adding to the bath salts.) I like to add around 2 cups per bath, but you can go as low as 1 cup. The bath salts should fully dissolve in the bath. You might need to use your hands to swish the salts around until fully dissolved. 
• Add the clay (and/or apple cider vinegar) to the bath water. 
• I try to soak in the tub for about 20-30 minutes. That said, do what works for you. The goal is relaxation and stressing out about timing isn’t going to help you get in the zen zone. 
• While soaking, be sure to drink plenty of water (preferably room temperature water since you're in a hot bath). You will sweat. This is normal. Of course, use common sense. This is how I take a detox bath. If you don't feel well, trust your instincts, use common sense, and get out of the bath. 

The post How to Make a Homemade Detox Bath appeared first on Live Simply.

Last year, we finally had the chance to remodel our bathroom. I’m talking about a total demo and rehab of the space, but we couldn’t change the actual size of the bathroom, which is incredibly tiny. We had to work with the space provided due to the layout of our home. I remember spending hours online looking at all the soaking tubs and trying my hardest to make something like that fit in our tiny space. Each time I found the perfect tub, our contractor would look at me and shake his head, “Sorry, that’s not going to fit.”

I never did find the perfect soaking tub to fit in our new space, but that hasn’t stopped me from becoming a bath person.

In the past couple of months, I’ve suddenly had the urge to soak. There’s something about putting the kids to bed, filling up the tub (even if it’s on the smaller side), adding bath salts, pouring a glass of wine, and dipping my toes in the warm bath water. It’s just the relaxation this mom needs in life.

Truth be told, my love for baths started after I bought some bath salts from Pursoma. This company makes a variety of lovely bath salts with super clean ingredients: salt, herbs and/or essential oils, and clay. I absolutely loved the experience of their bath salts (and I highly recommend this brand if you want a store-bought option).

Since the ingredients are simple, and I already owned most of them, I decided that going forward I would create my own bath salts experience. The following week, I did exactly that.

I’ve been making my own bath salts ever since and enjoying a weekly bath. I actually look forward to this time. Maybe it’s more the quietness of the 20 minutes spent in the bath that I crave. Maybe it’s the lack of technology (phone + bathtub = no bueno). Maybe it’s the bath itself with the aromatic essential oil and tension-relieving salt? Whatever it is, let me introduce you to my latest love…

Let’s make some homemade bath salts!

I decided to Google this very question just to see what’s out there. Turns out, bath salts can be a drug that people take to get high. I know…what?! So, just to get it out there, this post isn’t about that type of “bath salts.” What I’m talking about is a mixture of salt and (optional) an essential oil. This mixture, referred to as bath salts, is added to warm bath water with the goal of soaking your body for a set period of time.

This is the world wide web and people search for some crazy stuff, so I’m just putting that out there. We’re all on the same page now, right?!

Bath salts are incredibly easy to make and cost-effective. At this point, I choose to purchase most of my skincare products versus making products (you can read the details of my skincare routine, here). Bath salts are one product that I can’t help but make myself. It only takes a couple of minutes to make a quart-size jar. They’re also a great gift to make and give out during the holidays. Pair the salts with a bottle of wine and you have the perfect teacher gift.

Soaking in bath salts can be incredibly beneficial from a wellness perspective.

First and foremost, bath salts are a vehicle to help you relax and disconnect from the world and your phone, which means saying good-bye to stress (at least for 20-30 minutes). In a time when we’re constantly stimulated, taking 20-30 minutes for a bath is incredibly relaxing. Try it, just once. I think you’ll find this benefit alone is worth a soak in the tub.

Beyond the relaxation aspect, bath salts may also help to relieve tension and muscle soreness, aid in detoxing the body, soften the skin (not a health benefit per say, but it’s worth mentioning), calm itchy skin, improve sleep, and fight off a cold. (Read more about the benefits)

Salt

You can use either epsom salt or sea salt to make to bath salts, or you can use a combo of both. Epsom salt is not technically a salt like sea salt; rather, it’s a mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate. Epsom salt is commonly used to ease muscle soreness and calm tension. Epsom salt is easy to find at most stores. Bags or boxes are usually sold in the supplement section or near the pharmacy.

Sea salt (not table salt) is rich in naturally-occurring minerals. Bathing in sea salt may help restore drained minerals that are essential to the body. Sea salt can be found in most stores.

Personally, I usually go with epsom salt to make my bath salts. But I’ve also experimented with half sea salt and half epsom salt, or just 100% sea salt. The choice is up to you. Go with the option that you enjoy the most–this may take some experimenting, or you may want to go with both.

Aromatherapy (Optional) 

Along with epsom salt and/or sea salt, you can add an aromatic experience with essential oils. You can also create this experience with dried herbs, but I’ve found herbs to be an annoying addition because the tiny bits stick to the bathtub after draining the water. Leftover bits mean that I have to now clean my bathtub, after a relaxing bath. See the irony in this?

You can go with one single essential oil, a combo of essential oils, or a blend of oils (such as the blends from Plant Therapy or your favorite essential oil company). I usually go with a single essential oil, like lavender essential oil (relaxing and promotes restful sleep). Other single essential oil options: orange, frankincense, bergamot, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Avoid essential oils that can irritate or burn the skin, such as: cinnamon, oregano, peppermint, and clove.

If you’re going to use the bath salts around a child (or for a child’s bath), keep in mind that some essential oils are not safe for kids (this chart is handy for reference). It’s best to err on the side of caution. Plant Therapy labels essential oils that can be used around children as “kid-safe.” I find this incredibly helpful and it’s one of the reasons I love this particular company (they aren’t an MLM and I don’t work with them–it’s just my personal preference when using an essential oil).

It’s important to dilute the essential oils used in your bath salts. It doesn’t matter what brand you use, you need to dilute, dilute, dilute. We’re talking about very potent substances. Natural, but also potent. So let’s talk about what you need to dilute the essential oil(s) for safe usage.

Carrier or Nourishing Oil (Optional) 

If you want to add the aromatic benefit of essential oils, which just takes the bath to the next level, mix the essential oil(s) with a carrier/nourishing oil, such as: olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, or sweet almond oil. This step helps the oils disperse evenly throughout the bath water (once you take a bath).

The carrier oil shouldn’t make your bathtub slippery since we’re talking about a small amount mixed with a large amount of salts, but if it does, sprinkle a small amount of baking soda over your tub once you’re done with the bath and the water drains. Use your hands to rub the baking soda over the surface, or a sponge, and then rise it away with water. (PS: I use this method to clean our bathtub each week. No special cleaning formulas needed. Read more about how I use baking soda to clean my home, here.)

Once you have your ingredients: salt of choice, essential oil (if using), and a carrier oil (if using an essential oil), it’s time to mix everything together in a jar. Use a glass jar with an air-tight lid as the bath salts will keep for a year. Of course, you’ll most likely use your salts much sooner. The recipe shared today makes 4 cups of bath salts (1 quart-size jar). That’s enough for 2-4 baths.

To take a bath using your homemade bath salts, fill a bathtub with very warm water. Of course, use common sense when it comes to the temperature of the water. I love a very warm bath, but go with the temperature that feels most appropriate for you and your skin. While the tub fills with water, add your bath salts. (The essential oils will begin to evaporate in the warm water when you do this, but I find they’re still worth adding to the bath salts.)

I like to add around 2 cups per bath, but you can go as low as 1 cup. The bath salts should fully dissolve in the bath.  You might need to use your hands to help swish the salts around until fully dissolved.

When using bath salts, try to soak in the tub for about 20-30 minutes. That said, do what works for you. The goal is relaxation and stressing out about timing isn’t going to help you get in the zen zone.

For my children, I always make sure the salt has fully dissolved before they’re allowed to get in the bath. And I only use 1 cup of bath salts per bath.

I find that evenings are the best time for a soak in the tub. After all, the goal is relaxation and nothing says relaxation quite like slipping into bed after a bath. I love taking a bath once a week,  but that could all change. Do what feels good–maybe that’s once a year, maybe that’s never, or maybe that’s twice a week.

Once the bath is over, I don’t rinse off. I go from bath to robe (I became a robe person this year, thanks to the hotel rooms in Europe being stocked with robes) to pajamas to bed. If you want to rinse off in the shower after the bath, more power to ya!

Now that we’ve talked about the specifics of making and using homemade bath salts (that was quite the long chat about something so incredibly simple), let’s make some homemade bath salts. I think you’ll love them!

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Homemade Bath Salts

How to make your own custom bath salts and use them to create a relaxing bath experience. 

Course DIY

Cuisine Beauty, Body

Keyword homemade bath salts

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Servings 4 cups

Author Kristin Marr

Ingredients

• 4 cups epsom salt or sea salt, or a combination of both epsom salt and sea salt to equal 4 total cups
• 1 TB nourishing oil such as: olive oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil
• 5-20 drops essential oil of choice, see recommendations below

Special Equipment:

• small bowl for mixing the nourishing oil with the essential oil
• quart-size storage jar
• long spoon for stirring the bath salts

Instructions

• Pour the salt of choice into the storage jar. 
• In a small bowl, combine the nourishing oil of choice and essential oil of choice (between 5-20 drops, depending on aroma desired). 
• Pour the oil blend into the bath salts and carefully stir to blend everything together. Seal the jar and store away from direct sunlight. 

To Use:

• To take a bath using your homemade bath salts, fill a bathtub with very warm water. Of course, use common sense when it comes to the temperature of the water. While the tub fills with water, add your bath salts. (The essential oils will begin to evaporate in the warm water when you do this, but I find they're still worth adding to the bath salts.) I like to add around 2 cups per bath, but you can go as low as 1 cup. The bath salts should fully dissolve in the bath. You might need to use your hands to swish the salts around until fully dissolved. 

Notes

Essential Oil Notes

I usually go with a single essential oil, like lavender essential oil. Other single essential oil options: orange, frankincense, bergamot, eucalyptus, and rosemary. Avoid essential oils that can irritate or burn the skin, such as: cinnamon, oregano, peppermint, and clove.

If you're going to use the bath salts around a child (or for a child's bath), keep in mind that some essential oils are not safe for kids under certain ages. It's best to err on the side of caution. This post/chart is a handy reference. 

The post How to Make Homemade Bath Salts appeared first on Live Simply.

I’m going to share each of the items we’ll be including in the spa kit baskets. I hope these ideas inspire you to create your own spa experience/kit for yourself or a special someone in your life. If you’re gifting this spa kit (all or just a couple of the products), I recommend printing the recipes and instructions for the recipient.

Pamper the Feet: Foot Soak

This recipe combines salt, baking soda, dried rose petals, dried chamomile, and dried lavender to create a soothing, relaxing, and skin-softening foot soak. This also makes a great hand soak–just add a bit of the salt mixture to a bowl of warm water, and soak your hands. The foot soak will keep for a couple of months.

Pamper the Body: Body Butter

Body butter can be used as an alternative to lotion, since its primary job is to moisturize the skin. Body butter can be used to moisturize the feet after the foot soak, as a moisturizing massage cream, or as a daily body moisturizer. Body butter will keep for about six months (or longer).

Pamper the Face: Facial Exfoliator

Now it’s time to care for the face. This simple facial exfoliator is made with pantry ingredients–sugar and oil, that’s it! Massage the exfoliator on the face for a few seconds, and then rinse with warm water. Follow-up with a moisturizer. This exfoliator will keep for a couple of months.

Pamper the Face: Face Mask Powder

It’s best to make a homemade face mask when you’re ready to use it. With this in mind, to make a spa kit product, we’re going to include a container of bentonite clay and the printed recipe. Since the recipients probably won’t have aloe on hand, we’ll include a note that water may be used in place of the aloe.

If you’re using the kit to pamper yourself, then you don’t need to pre-portion the clay in advance. Simply mix the clay, honey, and water or aloe. Apply the mask to your face, let it rest for a few minutes, and then rinse the face with warm water.

You can use the face mask on the same day as the exfoliant, or space them out.

The post How to Make Your Own Natural Spa Kit appeared first on Live Simply.

Even though it’s technically sandal weather year-round in Florida, I try my best to feel part of the “seasons” by wearing more closed shoes during the fall and winter months. I’ve also been known to live in jeans during the cooler seasons, too. Then again, I live in jeans year-round #momuniform.

As spring and summer approach, I pretend there’s a slight weather shift, too, and pull out my spring and summer capsule wardrobe–which includes multiple pairs of sandals, dresses, and shorts. This also means it’s time to shave those grizzly bear legs, soften those hardened heels, and pretty-up those overgrown toenails. TMI? Sorry…

The good news is that we’re going to take care of at least one of those issues today, because I know I’m not alone. I just happen to admit these things on the world wide web.

In the early days of spring, I’m really good about making a pedicure appointment and caring for my feet. But then life takes over–the kids are home from school, we travel, and I try to squeeze in recipe and photography projects in the little spare time that’s left. That well-intentioned pedicure appointment schedule just doesn’t happen anymore. Plus, I have a hard time spending $35 every two or so weeks on my toes and heels. I’d much rather spend that money on going out to eat and having someone else do the dishes. An empty and clean sink is the way to my heart and wallet ;).

The good news is that I’ve found a homemade solution. A solution that allows me to save money and care for and soften my feet, without ever leaving my home. Say hello to my homemade foot soak.

This foot soak is incredibly easy to make. And despite the fancy-sounding floral ingredients, it’s also very affordable.

The base of the foot soak is made with two kitchen ingredients: mineral-rich salt (the same salt I use for cooking and baking) and baking soda. The salt, along with the warm water and baking soda, helps to soften the skin and provide beneficial minerals for the skin and body. The baking soda, although a small amount, may also help to deodorize the feet.

Crushed flowers are also added to the soak to create the ultimate spa-like experience. Lavender, rose, and chamomile all provide a soothing and relaxing experience (and soothe the skin). Nourishing oil is used to moisturize the skin.

I also like to add a few drops of essential oil to the salts for a relaxing scent. My favorite essential oils at the moment are Plant Therapy’s Soft Skin (a synergy blend–a mix of essential oils) and Love Vanilla (the same synergy I used in my body butter tutorial).

This foot soak is wonderful to make on the weekend and use later in the week. I’ve also used this foot soak immediately after making it–no prep necessary. And with Mother’s Day fast approaching, I’m planning to include a jar of this foot soak in a gift basket for my mom and mother-n-law.

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Skin Softening Floral Foot Soak

A relaxing floral foot soak to help soften, deodorize, and soothe the feet. 

Course DIY

Cuisine Beauty

Keyword Foot Soak

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 1 serving

Author Kristin Marr

Ingredients

• 1 TB dried rose petals *
• 1 TB dried lavender *
• 1 TB dried chamomile *
• 1/2 cup salt ** mineral-rich
• 1 TB baking soda
• 2 TB nourishing oil such as: extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, or sweet almond oil
• 6 drops essential oil *** (optional)

Instructions

• Place the rose petals, lavender flowers, and dried chamomile flowers in a spice/coffee grinder, and pulse just two times until chopped. Alternatively, you can use a mortar and pestle for this. Set aside. 
• In a medium-size bowl, combine the salt, baking soda, and nourishing oil of choice. Stir the mixture to combine. Add the dried flowers to the salt mixture, and stir to combine. 
• Spoon the salts into a 6 or 8-ounce jar, and seal the jar with a lid. Store the salts until you're ready to use the foot soak, or you can use this mixture immediately and skip the storage jar. 

To Use:

• Fill a gallon-size bucket with warm water (My water is pretty hot, around 140F according to our electric kettle. Hot tap water, straight from the faucet, also works.) Pour the salts into the water. Stir the salts and water with a long spoon (I use a wooden spoon from the kitchen). Grab a towel to place near the bucket--you'll need this later. 
• When the temperature is comfortable, place your feet in the bucket. Soak your feet, relax, and a enjoy a few minutes of quiet time.  
• When you're done soaking, remove your feet and place them on the towel nearby. I like to rinse my feet off in the sink or the bathtub, since some of the flowers stick to the skin. Once rinsed, apply body butter or a moisturizing lotion to your feet. If the heels of your feet are rough, you can also rub them with a pumice stone after removing your feet from the soak, and then follow-up with a fresh water rinse and moisturizer. 

Notes

*I purchase my herbs and dried flowers in bulk (usually via Amazon) for do-it-yourself projects. If you only need a small amount, I recommend finding a health food store with Frontier Co-Op Bulk Bins. These bins will have everything you need for this foot soak. The beauty of these bins is that you can purchase a very, very small amount of what you need. So the end cost is just a few dollars, or less than that. 

** I use Real Salt (fine) or a Himalayan salt (fine) from Costco. This salt isn't bleached or stripped of its natural, beneficial minerals. Most of the time this salt is pink or gray, or multi-color. You could also use epsom salt in this recipe, but you'll probably need a bit more (about 2/3 cup?) since the granules are much larger. 

***I like to add a few drops of essential oil to the salts for a relaxing scent. My favorite at the moment are Plant Therapy's Soft Skin (a synergy blend--a mix of essential oils) and Love Vanilla (the same synergy I used in my body butter tutorial). Other options: peppermint, lavender, geranium, eucalyptus, and tea tree. You can also create your own custom scent by using two different essential oils (like lavender and geranium--3 drops each). 

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Suspicion and independence started to set in six months ago.

First, he started to sniff the green smoothies. “It’s green!”

Then, the waffle sandwiches started to come into question, “Is there nut butter in here? I just like jelly now.”

Finally, the bath.

What used to be a simple process of warming the water, tossing in a cup of sleepy-time bath salts, and enjoying a few songs and rub-a-dub in the tub, was met with suspicion, “What are those? I don’t like rocks in my bath anymore.”

Okay, so Piper has a point. Maybe a couple?

First, he’s getting to be a big boy, like almost kindergarten big. This whole big boy business means he wants to be more involved in the little details of his life, like the color of his smoothie. He also has new found opinions, such as not liking peanut butter.

Second, who likes rocks in their bath? And yes, they weren’t really rocks, but in his four year-old boy mind, they certainly qualify as rocks. Round? Check. Throwable? Check.

I’m embracing this new stage of independence. It’s actually rather exciting to hear things like: “I love this!” or “Mom, this is the best bread ever!” Those little opinions mixed in with the respectful, “Mom, I’m not a big fan of your green smoothies anymore…” make this little stage of new independence much more doable.

Every crunchy mom (AKA: natural-loving, coconut oil-obsessed, “I make my own toothpaste” mom) knows that when Plan A doesn’t work, there are always two ways to drink a smoothie and boost the immune system at bath time.

Since Plan A simply doesn’t work anymore: “Here, drink this! You’ll love it!” I’ve moved on to a new plan: community involvement.

Here’s how the new plan looks.

“Hey Piper, I’m going to make a smoothie. Would you like some? Okay, let’s look in the fridge and see what we can add to make it super delicious.” Then, the hunt begins. Sometimes the smoothie ends up green, sometimes red. But the goal is usually met: nourishing an independent four year-old. Community involvement at its finest.

This approach has also been applied to the bath. I explained to Piper that the salt and oils I add to his bath add good things to the water and help him fight off any extra germs that may want to hang out and play. Of course, he was totally fine with the idea, but the rock dilemma had to be solved. (PS: I promise, I wasn’t putting rocks in my kids’ bath. Just a nice little cup of espom salt and essential oils.)

The solution?

Homemade Immune-Loving Bath Fizzies. 

Bath fizzies are just as fun as they sound (which means they are the perfect way to win over a four year-old): little balls (fizzies) that fizz when added to water. Bath fizzies pack the same salt as my sleepy-time bath salts, but with a magical fizzy ingredient: citric acid. I realize citric acid sounds a bit scary, but it’s nothing more than a natural acid found in citrus. Citric acid, when added to water, creates a fizz, providing homemade bath salts with a magically-fizzy property.

To boost the immune-loving qualities to Piper’s bath fizzies, I add Plant Therapy’s Immune Boom Essential Oil, a blend specifically formulated to help boost kids’ immune systems with: Lemon, Palmarosa,Dill, Petitgrain, Copaiba and Frankincense carteri. The Immue Boom Essential Oil is a new blend introduced by Plant Therapy as part of their amazing new line of kid-safe essential oils formulated with the help of aromatherapy expert Robert Tisserand for kids ages 2-10.  The line not only includes this immune blend, but also oils for tummy aches, Eczema, allergy symptoms, headaches, and more. You can view the entire line here. PS: Right now, you can pick up many of Plant Therapy’s products on sale during their 25 Days of Christmas which ends on December 20th. 

The super fizzy properties of the homemade bath fizzies have been a hit. In fact, Piper requests fizzies added to his bath regularly and enjoys watching as each one bubbles in the bath and releases immune-loving properties. I promise, these fizzies will be a hit in your house too, whether you’re creating an immune-boosting bath for a suspicious independent four year-old or the perfect stocking stuffers for family members.

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DIY Homemade Immune-Loving Bath Fizzies

The super fizzy properties of the homemade bath fizzies have been a hit. In fact, Piper requests fizzies added to his bath regularly and enjoys watching as each one bubbles in the bath and releases immune-loving properties.

Course DIY

Cuisine Body, Crafts

Keyword Bath Fizzies

Prep Time 10 minutes minutes

Rest/Dry 1 day day

Total Time 10 minutes minutes

Servings 12 Fizzy's

Author Kristin Marr

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup arrowroot flour starch organic corn starch can be subbed if desired
• 1 cup citric acid *
• 2 cups baking soda
• 1 cup mineral-rich bath salts or epsom salt
• 2 TB water
• 3 TB Plant Therapy's fractionated coconut oil a different nourishing oil can be subbed
• 20 drops Plant Therapy's immune boom

Instructions

• In a large bowl, whisk together the arrowroot, citric acid, baking soda, and bath salts.
• In a small bowl, mix together the water and coconut oil. Slowly, one tablespoon at a time add the liquid to the dry ingredients. The salts will begin to bubble once the liquid is added, so quickly mix the liquid, after each addition, into the dry ingredients. Once all the liquid is added, the ingredients will feel like wet sand.
• Stuff the wet salt mixture into a mold (I found one at IKEA that I use for making fruit and veggie gummies, like this), pressing the salts down into the individual molds. Let the salt mixture rest in the molds for 10 minutes, then carefully remove and place the fizzies on a cookie sheet or flat surface. Let the fizzies dry for 24 hours before packaging.
• To use, drop desired number of fizzies into a warm bath or foot soak. I like to use 5-6 bath fizzies in a bath.

*Cream of Tartar can be used in place of citric acid. To use Cream of Tartar, simply use 1/2 the amount called for, so 1/2 cup cream of tartar versus 1 whole cup. Adjust the liquid as needed.

Different oils may be subbed based on your needs, such as: lavender for a sleepy-time bath.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Plant Therapy. The opinions and photos expressed are completely my own. As a blogger, I’m privileged to partner with companies making a difference in the natural and real food world.  I only endorse companies and products I 100% love and believe in. I’m not an affiliate for Plant Therapy, I simply enjoy their oils. 

More DIYs You May Like:

 DIY Homemade Kids’ Body Wash

DIY Homemade Playdough

Homemade Vapor Rub 

The post DIY Homemade Immune-Loving Bath Fizzies appeared first on Live Simply.

“Bedtime.”

“No.”

“No, bedtime. Me not tired.”

I’m a stay-at-home, now work-at-home, mom. By the time the sun starts to reside, I am so ready for that nightly ritual called “bedtime”. Don’t get me wrong, I love my kids. I love spending time with them. But, I really look forward to a couple hours to sit down over a warm cup of my favorite tea, chit-chat with Dustin, fold laundry, read a good book, and blog.

Those couple hours rejuvenate me!

My children have never been the best sleepers. They have lots of energy and a zeal for life and exploring. Bedtime has not been an easy practice. We have a set bedtime schedule: bath, a little play with daddy while putting on jammies, books, and bed. It’s a beautiful routine, until we hit the last b word–bed.

Every night we lay down with our children until they are asleep. I love these quiet moments laying next to them, stroking their hairs, and whispering prayers in their ear. Recently our beautiful moments of quiet bedtime have turned into an hour, two hours– oh dear, will they ever go to sleep?  I start drifting in my mind to the millions of dishes downstairs, the warm tea I want to sip, the laundry I’d love to fold, and the husband I want to talk to.

Help!

A couple months ago, I heard Katie from Wellness Mama give a presentation. Her talk was about keeping a family healthy mainly with real food, but she touched on Epsom Salt and magnesium. She discussed their importance for children and promoting sleep. I’ve used magnesium lotion for a couple years now for everything from sore muscles to headaches, but the idea of magnesium for children intrigued me.

This mother got to work and here’s what I found:

1. Epsom Salt helps kids (& Adults) sleep:

Through the stresses of life, magnesium is drained from the body. The average person is already deficient in magnesium, so this draining removes even the small amount a person has in store. Magnesium helps to produce that calming effect we get from seretonian. The result of bathing in Epsom Salt and absorbing the magnesium are: improved sleep, concentration, and relaxed muscles. A recipe for peaceful sleep!

2. Espom salt boosts the immune system:

‘Tis the season for coughs, colds, and the flu. Besides Cod Liver Oil, a healthy diet, and homemade elderberry syrup, Epsom Salt help boost the immune system. To get technical again, bathing in Epsom Salt helps to stimulate the lymph system and circulate oxygen throughout the body. The salt bath helps keep toxins at bay in the body which can naturally drain the body and decrease immunity.

Pretty awesome, right?

Of course, I immediately bought a bag of this special (inexpensive) salt. I mixed up a special, simple formula I now call the “Sleepy Time Bath Salts” and each night have been putting a 1/3 cup in the kids’ bath.

I was skeptical, as I tend to be, but I have been amazed at the improvement in their sleep. Suddenly, bedtime isn’t taking hours, just a few minutes. The kids are now relaxed, peaceful, and ready to sleep.

I’ve also started rubbing some of this calming homemade moisturizer on the bottom of their feet after the relaxing bath.

So, here it is. The “Sleepy Time Bath Salts” formula. It’s not complicated, just simple ingredients that come together to create the ultimate calming, immune-boosting bath. I love this bath formula so much, I’ve even made a few jars to give away to family members.

What you will need:

• 1 cup Epsom Salt (where to buy)
• 1/2 cup Real Salt or a high-quality mineral-rich salt (where to buy)
• 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 1/4 cup crushed lavender (where to buy), optional (helps give the calming lavender smell and effect)
• 1 Tablespoon Coconut Oil (where to buy), this is not mixed in the salt formula, but added at time of bath

How To:

If using dried lavender, simply crush it. I use the same mortar and pestle I use for crushing spices.

In a storage container (I use these), add the Epsom Salt, Real Salt, and crushed dried lavender. Mix the ingredients together. I simply shake the container once sealed.

Once combined, add the lavender essential oil. Mix the oil throughout the salts.

Seal the container and use 1/2 cup per bath. While the warm water is drawn, I also add 1 Tablespoon coconut oil. You can also add apple cider vinegar to help with immune-boosting, particularly while fighting a cold.

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