Finding time for yourself is very important to your mental well-being.
Hot stone baths may have began in Bhutan, a country north of Bangladesh. Stones were heated in a fire until they were red hot and than placed inside a tub of cool water. The stone would warm the water as a person laid inside for 15 minutes to an hour. The person drank soup and water while inside the tub. The people believed sweating helped release negative impurities. While you may not want to lay on red hot stones, an alternative of this bath can be produced at home.
Instructions
1. Fill a large pot with water and place on a burner. Let water roll to a boil. Place stones inside the boiling water being careful not to splash yourself. Let the stones sit inside the water for at least 15 minutes. While the stones are warming prepare the bathroom.
2. Plug in a stereo or set up your iPod in the bathroom, playing soft, relazing music. Light scented candles, like mint or sandalwood. Fill the bath tub with warm to hot water. You won't be using as many stones as the Bhutan baths nor will they be as hot, so the water should already be warm. Pour a tablespoon of olive oil in the water; this will make your skin slick and the stones will slide easier.
3. Remove the stones from the pot with a slotted spoon. Immediately place stones in a thick towel that will keep them insulated. Gently pour the stones into the bath, carefully testing their temperature with your hand too make sure they are not too hot to lay on. Climb into the bath and lay on the stones. The warm water will keep the stones warm longer. Heated stones outside warm water may stay warm for 15minutes to a half hour. You can use a stone to massage your shoulders or feet as you lay in the tub.
4. Climb out of the bath when finished. The towel you used earlier to carry the stones should still be warm and is a comforting addition to this spa ritual. Towel yourself off and drain the water in the tub. Put on warm, comfortable clothing and lay down with a blanket. Relax as your body adjusts to the temperature outside the water before continuing your day.
Tags: warm water, into bath, stones inside, stones warm, will keep