The perfect bath oftentimes seems like the perfect solution to a stressful day.

Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to relax and unwind in a nice, hot, aromatic bubble bath? However, it’s important to note that in order to get optimal relaxation, no ordinary bath will do. No, you must have the ‘perfect bath’… the perfect bath piled high with bubbles, the perfect bath surrounded by candles, the perfect bath in which to get complete relaxation. You see, the perfect bath should also be the perfect getaway. It should be a place of tranquility where you can have an allotted time to yourself, to soak away your troubles. And, of course, the perfect bath has to do exactly what it says on the label – it has to be perfect.

The question is — what is involved in creating the perfect bath? Don’t get us wrong, there’s nothing wrong with simply drawing a bubble bath and enjoying a half hour of peace and quiet. We’re sure it will bring you fulfillment and content. But wouldn’t you rather have something even better than that? That’s where the ‘perfect bath’ comes in. If you’re looking for the recipe to the perfect bath, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re trying to ease the physical pain after a tough workout at the gym or trying to ease the mental pain of a long day at the office, the perfect bath will be just the solution you were looking for.

The following article from thehuffingtonpost.com lists the various components to help you not only create, but also enjoy, the perfect bath. Whether you follow each one precisely or choose to select only some of the suggestions, we’re certain that you’ll find full enjoyment, satisfaction, and bliss the next time you take a bath… or should we say, the perfect bath?

11 Ways to Create the Perfect Bath

Use Scented Bath Oil– Choose scented bath oil; floral scents like lavender, jasmine, iris and rose are associated with relaxation and can help to ease you into a relaxing state quicker. Add oils to the tub when the bath is halfway full, this will help them disperse evenly throughout the water.

Bath Temperature– A warm bath is best for relaxing the body. Ideal water temperature for a warm bath is 92 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to use your wrist, not your hand to test the water since your wrist is a better gauge of how the water will feel once your entire body is submerged.

Body Scrub– Most people are used to being active all the time, so when they get in the tub their minds start racing and they become unable to relax. Gently massaging your body with a sponge and body scrub will help engage your mind as the scrub buffs away dryness and leaves your skin supple and moist.

Closing Your Eyes– It is important to close your eyes during the bath to enter deep relaxation, so anything that forces you to keep your eyes closed is a great. Try cold cucumbers, an icy compress or eye pads which have been soaked in chilled chamomile tea.

Bath Salts– Tough workout? Bath salts are like external muscle relaxants. If you have soreness, pain or swelling, bath salts can help reduce inflammation and stiffness and help detoxify skin and increase circulation, which helps to ease tension and revitalize the body.

Candles– Bright bathroom lights tell your body it’s go time, not bath time. Instead, light a few candles and place them around the room and on the edge of the tub.

Cold Water– If you’ve set your water temp right (somewhere between steamy and very warm), you should be feeling quite toasty in the tub. A warm bath raises your body’s core temperature, so you’ll start sweating. Before getting into the tub, set a bowl of ice water and a washcloth next to you and use it as a cold compress on your forehead or the nape of your neck to help keep you refreshed throughout the bath time. I also grab a tall bottle of water and force myself to drink the whole thing to hydrate.

Bath Robe/ Nice Bath Sheets– Nothing jolts you out of a zen state like going from a warm, luxe bath to a measly, threadbare robe or old dingy towel. Get a plush terry cloth robe or fluffy towels that allow you to feel warm and comfortable.

Relax Afterward– Leave the smart phone alone for an hour or so and just enjoy time for yourself. Get a glass of tea and read or listen to music. Want more coziness? Heat a towel in the microwave and wrap around your neck and take a deep and well-earned nap.

Pamper Yourself– Make the most of your bath by using the time to also give yourself a face and hair treatment. Both the skin and hair respond very favorably to the moist environment created by a steamy bath. To cleanse your face, apply a clay mask to the skin, avoiding the eyes, allow to remain on the skin for 7-10 minutes then remove gently with wet washcloth. Need to soften and hydrate your hair? Apply conditioner or hair mask to wet hair then cover in plastic cap and hot towel and allow the conditioner or mask to remain on hair for duration of bath for 15- 20 minutes. Wash and rinse thoroughly

Music– Play relaxing music to sooth your mood and aid in the process of relaxation. Visualization is also a great tool to enhance relaxation in the bath. Complimented by music visualization exercises can transport you to your own private Nirvana. Caribbean beaches anyone?

Whether that perfect bath is calling for you, or your achy body is calling for the perfect bath, with these tips you can be rest assured that you’ll have absolutely no problem unwinding in something that is so-much-more than just a regular ol’ bubble bath.

There’s no doubt in our minds that after reading about hot bubble baths, candles, and scented bath oils, you’re already craving that perfect bath. Wouldn’t you rather be neck deep in the perfect bath than sat at your computer right now? Well, what you waiting for? That perfect bath is waiting for you!

And, in the future, if you’re looking for other relaxation techniques aside from taking the perfect bath, please contact The Spa at Richard Francis. We’d love to tell you about the massages and facials offered here and how they can also alleviate your aches instantly transporting you to a more blissful state.