Take a hot bath.
That is my recommendation this week.
D.C. got truly cold today. I haven’t figured out how to turn my heat on yet, so as soon as I hit “send” on this newsletter, I am stepping into a steaming hot bath.
Baths seem to be one of those concepts that divide people—you’re either a bath person, or a “I don’t want to sit in my own filth” person. To which I say, did you fall in mud puddle today, Pig Pen? Why are you so dirty? Most folks—lest ye be a farmer, animal control person, or miner—do not get particularly grimey in their day-to-day. And if you are, take a little shower first. It’ll be worth it to submerge your cold limbs in hot water.
It’s easy to forget about baths, to pass them off as not worth the time and effort. I happen to have two very dear friends who are capital “B” Bath People. I'm talking multiple a day if the mood so strikes. These friends are fabulous inspiration for taking a little extra time to do something that feels good. You will feel so, so good both during and afterward. That’s more than can be said for many of life’s pleasures.
Here is my checklist for a successful bath:
Add some Epsom salts. They’re cheap, you can get the fragrant variety if you desire, and both your muscles and mind will feel marvelously melty.
Make sure you have your towel AND warm jammies and socks nearby so that you can dry off quickly and trap that nice heat.
Don’t stay in too long! You want to inch up to melty bliss without crossing over to red-faced, prune-fingered, heat-inebriated dizziness. I made you a small playlist that is 32 minutes. Let that be your timer.
Put some nice cold water nearby so you can sip. I also keep a tissue nearby, because I am a mucus-y gal, and the eucalyptus Epsom salts clear out my sinuses.
Light a candle. This doesn’t need explanation. It’s just nice.
I hope you find time to take a hot bath this week.
Until next week,
Elizabeth
This newsletter is just one facet of Zhuzh, my platform dedicated to conscious consumption and making space for delight. I offer secondhand-and-vintage-based wardrobe and interior styling services, art curation, and super chill life coaching. Keep up with me on Instagram and learn more at www.zhuzhlife.com.