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You know that feeling when you step out of a really good bath? Refreshed, clear-headed, maybe even a little glowy? Turns out, there are some simple Ayurvedic practices that can help you feel that way more often.
We all have our bathing routines - some of us are quick shower people, others love a long soak. Whatever your style, Ayurveda offers some lovely additions that might make your daily bath feel even more nourishing.
Most people naturally feel like bathing at certain times, and Ayurveda has some thoughts on why:
Notice what feels right for your body - that's always the best guide.
Here's something that might sound unusual but feels amazing once you try it: putting a little oil on your skin before you bathe.
It sounds backwards, right? But here's what happens:
Don't leave oil on overnight though - it can feel too heavy and your sheets won't thank you!
For better choice with respect to the best oil to use, please refer to this article -
Here's something interesting: using slightly cooler water on your head than on your body can feel surprisingly good.
Why? Hot water on your head can sometimes leave you feeling a bit heated or agitated afterward - you know that slightly frazzled feeling? Cooler water on your head helps you feel more balanced.
Want to make your bath a little more special? Try adding one of these to your water:
| For This Feeling | Try Adding | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| Deep cleansing for oily skin | A pinch of sea salt or squeeze of lime | Refreshing and purifying |
| Gentle glow for everyone | Dried amla or triphala powder | Leaves skin feeling soft |
| Soothing irritation or during any skin issues | A bit of turmeric or manjistha | Calming for troubled skin |
| Pure relaxation, especially in hot weather | Rose petals or rose water | Lovely, calming scent |
Just pick one - no need to turn your bath into a soup! 😊
If you've oiled your skin, you might find you don't need as much soap - or any at all.
The goal is feeling clean and comfortable, not squeaky clean to the point of tightness.
Starting with hot water on your head can sometimes leave you feeling a bit heated or scattered for the rest of your bath. When you save your head for last and use slightly cooler water, you often step out feeling more balanced.
This part is so simple but makes such a difference:
Instead of antiperspirants that block your pores, try herbal powders for natural freshness.
| Powder | Feels Like | Good to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Sandalwood | Cooling and lovely-smelling | Can be pricey, but a little goes far |
| Vetiver | Fresh and grounding | Works really well for most people |
| Sarsaparilla | Mild and sweet | Gentle option for sensitive skin |
Just dust a little on areas that tend to get sweaty. These absorb moisture naturally while letting your skin breathe. You can also use natural flowers to accessorise for that natural fragrance.
Daily bathing works well for most people's bodies, but hair washing might feel better every 2-3 days rather than daily.
You'll know what's right by how your hair and scalp feel. Some people love daily hair washing; others find it too much.
Daily bathing with chemically loaded soaps and shampoos, that too without any oiling, is harmful as it dries out the skin and causes faster ageing. But daily bathing after proper oiling and while using herbs is rejuvenating and calming.
Ready to transform your daily routine? Try this for one week:
For now, if you prefer to take small steps forward, the following section might help you pick the first step forward.
Feeling curious to try something? Pick just one small thing:
🫗 Try oiling before your next bath
🌡️ Use slightly cooler water on your head
🌹 Add something lovely to your bath water
🧼 Try a natural scrub instead of soap
Which one sounds most appealing right now?
There's no rush, no right or wrong way. Just notice what feels good for your particular body and skin.
The most beautiful thing about Ayurvedic bathing isn't following rules - it's paying attention to how different approaches make you feel, and choosing what genuinely makes your daily bath more nourishing for you. 💙