Self-care is a Scam

While I loathe the term “self-care” I’ve been attempting – during this off-season – to hit the reset button. For once, I’m realizing I need to focus on my mental and physical health. I’ve been taking baths almost every night. Sometimes I log off and leave my phone out of reach. This is proving to be a challenge. More times than not, I set up the laptop on the toilet seat cover and watch nature documentaries while floating in the warm bathwater. There was a great YouTube video on ant colonies I recently watched.

This is TMI, so I’ll get back to the point…

In an effort to enhance my bathing experience, I bought essential oils, bubble bath soaps, and eucalyptus-infused sea salt. When I looked at the total in my Amazon cart though, it made me think –  the “self-care” trend is a real scam. Companies have successfully developed a commerce trap around our health and well-being. These “self-care” products are expensive and the companies that are marketing them to us are essentially saying,  “If you want to care and love yourself first (ugh) buy all of these products and you will feel better.”

I became irritated again, in the bath the other night pondering the scam. But then, like a bubble in the water, a great idea popped into my head – A DIY bathing experience with fresh herbs, fruits, flowers, and salts. Most of these items I already have around the house. I gave it a try two nights later and it was a beautiful, aromatic success.

Here are the ingredients for the perfect, low-cost relaxation bath.

Ingredients:

2 parts Epsom salt or kosher salt, 1 part baking soda
1 sliced orange
1 sliced lemon
Fresh or dried flower heads

Fresh Herbs (use your preferred combination):

Lavender
Sage
Basil
Mint or Peppermint
Cinnamon
Cloves
Rosemary
Ginger
Chamomile
Juniper Berries (found everywhere in Rockaway!)

Directions: Fill the bathtub with hot water. Add in your custom ingredients from the above list. Log off. Relax.

Herbs have different medicinal attributes. Choose ones that reflect your needs. Here’s a short guide:

Basil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help with a wide range of skin problems including acne. Use basil for a stimulating bath with a “wake up” aroma.

Chamomile has healing properties. Use this for a soothing and calming effect. This herb is great for a nighttime bath and restful sleep. Chamomile also provides relief from insect bites.

Eucalyptus acts as an antiseptic, and decongestant. If you’re feeling unwell, use this herb to clear sinuses. The aroma is refreshing.

Rosemary stimulates blood circulation and is great for oily skin. The scent is piney, perfect for this time of year. Rosemary in baths helps soothe sore muscles and joints.

Sage is rich in antioxidants, Sage cleanses, stimulates circulation, helps with closing pores, and restores skin elasticity.

Lavender is said to be helpful in treating anxiety, sleep problems, and restlessness. The delicate smell is calming.