Taking a bath to unwind has been my favorite means of relaxation for as long as I could remember. There's nothing I look forward to more after a long busy day or even a long night like a warm bubbly bath and possible an accompanying, chilled glass of pink moscato.

And with today's fancy advancements in tub architecture and different ways of cleansing and enjoying your experience more, why not spend a little time soaking your worries away?

1. Bath bombs

For those of you who are in the dark about one of my fave bath-time trends, bath bombs are scented balls of bath powder that sometimes can be just as average as turning your bath water all kinds of bright colors to hidden surprises like flower petals, little prizes or fortunes and even jewelry!


If there were a celebrity magazine for bath bombs, LUSH Cosmetics would be the most popular photographed celebrity...

Lush's "The Experimenter"

Bath bombs are like a party in your tub and just fill you with happiness! While we don't have a LUSH store in Monroe, I've found bath bombs at Torrid in the mall, ULTA beauty, local boutiques and small pharmacies, or you can order some online!

2. Epsom Salt and lavender oil/wash

Sick or not feeling yourself? Try this pair to get you feeling like yourself again! Another additive you can throw in, for when you're feeling congested, is some Vick's Vapo-Rub and climb into a hot, steamy bath and just await the relief you feel from the warm and tingliness that that opens your chest and nasal cavities.

3. Bath and Body Works

If you're not into bath bombs, salts, or oils there are always classic body washes and bubble baths that can be picked up right at your local shopping mall!

4. Beautiful subjects for photography

Whether if it's with your smartphone or a nice digital camera, the results can be beyond aesthetically pleasing:

5. Romantic setting

If you're trying to plan a cheap date night or just want to share a relaxing yet intimate moment with your significant other, BATHS are perfect.

And if you're single, hey, there's that much more room for you to enjoy your bath and curl up with a thick novel, a glass of wine (or beer, or tea; whatever you fancy), maybe some chocolate or dessert type treat, and for a bonus, some music on low to set the ambiance.

6. Reading / Journaling

And lastly, reading and journaling. As far as reading I'd obviously suggest paperback books because if it falls in the tub it'll dry out later vs. reading on your phone (trust me from experience). And as far as writing, for hand writing they make boards and trays similar to the one in the above picture to simplify your journaling time in a more dry and functional way. I've composed and edited pictures for most of my Odyssey articles in there; sometimes I use my tub as my own personal quiet space and studio.

Sure, showers are quicker and great for when you're in a hurry, but if you want to take your time bathing and take some quality "me-time," go draw you a bath and lean back and just rest your body and strengthen your spirits--it'll be rewarding beyond your wildest dreams.