You deserve a break from the holiday craze

You survived Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and holiday travel. Now you deserve a bit of pampering. So, take a break and enjoy a deep soak in a comforting, warm bath. Not only will you get some quiet alone time (away from Instagram and Amazon), taking a bath has great physical and mental health benefits, according to the Cleveland Clinic health blog.

Stop and soak

Instead of jumping in the shower, quickly toweling dry, and running off to the next thing on your list, stop for 10 or 15 minutes and take a leisurely bath. Indulge in the many ways a bath can do more than just clean.

1. Clean and exfoliate

Baths soften your skin, making it easier to scrub off dead skin cells and debris. Warm water opens your pores, helping flush out grime and reduce bacteria and fungi.

2. Improve mental/emotional health

Stress contributes to several health challenges, including heart disease, hair loss, a weakened immune system—even weight gain. A relaxing bath can reduce stress by lowering stress hormones, balancing serotonin, and giving you a peaceful space.

3. Sleep better.

Soaking in a warm bath before bed is relaxing on its own, but it also can help draw heat from your core, lowering body temperature and promoting deeper, more restful sleep. Add a few drops of essential oil for a peaceful night’s rest.

4. Soothe sore muscles and joints.

Warm water helps relieve muscle tension and joint pain. You’ll improve your range of motion as well as your ability to exercise.

5. Aid wound healing.

Cut yourself while chopping carrots? Did your new shoes give you blisters? Soaking in a warm saltwater bath can soothe and aid healing of some open wounds—but consult your doctor first.

How to take a restorative bath

All you need for your aquatic retreat are some bath salts to relax your muscles, an anti-aging facial mask to nourish and moisturize your skin while you bathe (this brand is formulated specifically for mature skin), and a body cream to lock in the moisture and keep your skin hydrated after your bath.

The only thing left is to turn on some Nat King Cole to complete the spa-like experience.