Are you in need of some muscle relaxation after a particularly long bike ride, run, or heavy weight training day? Soaking in an Epsom salt bath is a wonderful way to alleviate muscle aches and pains, and at the same time can help you relax and de-stress.
Epsom salt is made from the compound magnesium sulfate, and is not really salt — it derives its name from the town of Epsom in Surrey, England where it was discovered. Soaking in an Epsom salt bath is an age-old remedy to reduce muscle soreness or muscle cramps, important in exercise performance and recovery.
Make your own Epsom salt soak infused with lavender to create an extra-calming soak. Lavender has been used since ancient times for its calming effects and may help with sleep and mood disorders among other things.
Ingredients
- 3 cups Epsom salt
- 1 cup course sea salt
- ½ cup baking soda
- 5-6 drops lavender essential oil
- Dried lavender (optional)
Add 1-2 cups to a bath and soak 20-30 minutes
Soaking in a warm bath with your own Epsom salt and lavender mixture helps you to feel rejuvenated and relaxed. Make it a regular part of your self-care routine.
Kathy Schoenberger, LAc