Hydrotherapy—the use of water to relieve discomfort and promote physical well-being—is an easy and enjoyable way to practice self-care. Its many benefits for the mind, body, and spirit include supporting the immune system, reducing stress, improving blood circulation, facilitating breathing, increasing stamina and body strength, and more. Here are a few hydrotherapy techniques you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

1. Foot Soaks: Foot soaks are perfect for balancing body temperature, reducing anxiety and insomnia, relieving muscle soreness, and more. Foot soaks can relieve aches and pains due to standing for hours or walking in uncomfortable shoes. Plus, letting your feet sit in their own bath can help reduce swelling and prevent bacteria from settling into blisters and cuts or under toenails. You just need to put your feet in a tub with hot water for a few minutes to reap the benefits. If you want to increase the efficacy of this treatment, you could add some Elixir Mind Body Botanicals Mineral Soaking Salts.  These highly concentrated salts with more than 80 minerals can help reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and ease muscle cramps and joint pain (and they smell amazing)!  For a refreshing and stimulating finish try contrast therapy by adding ice and make a cold water soak.  If you want to add an extra dimension of relaxation add a foot massage.  Here are step-by-step instructions for how to give a great foot massage.

2. Hot Baths: This is the best option to relieve stress, soften skin, and relax muscles. Fill a bathtub with hot water, between 98 or 100°F, add some Elixir Mind Body Botanicals Bath Oil, and relax in the warm scented water for about 30 minutes. To achieve a higher level of relaxation, be sure to create a soothing atmosphere—try lighting candles and playing calming music or nature sounds.  Using a diffuser with pure and natural essential oils will add the beneficial element of Aromatherapy.  Like the idea of a happy hour bath?  Try these bath cocktail recipes.

3. Facial Steam Bath: Although it is very difficult to make a sauna or a steam room at home, an easy alternative you can try is a facial steam bath. Boil water with a couple of drops of essential oil like Elixir Mind Body Botanicals Radiant Essential Oil for skin health, Lavender for or Eucalyptus for your sinuses. Pour hot water and the essential oil of your choice into a bowl then place your face several inches above the bowl to allow the steam to caress your skin and inhale the aromatherapy. It is important to cover your head over the bowl with a towel so the steam stays contained.  Breathe deeply and slowly and try to clear your mind. Playing a brief guided mediation while you do this can definitely add to the experience.  Try this guided mediation Spotify playlist.

Be sure to moisturize after any of these three treatments as hot water can be drying to the skin.  Use highly-emollient oils or creams for the best results.  We recommend the natural and organic lines like ARCONA skincare for your face or the aromatic body oils from Elixir Mind Body Botanicals.

Don’t forget to hydrate from the inside too. Here are some ways to infuse your water by adding the following ingredients so that you can reap the health benefits without the bore of plain old H2O!

Mood booster: Strawberry and Thyme

Regulate Metabolism: Grapefruit and Jalapeño

Muscle Recovery: Rosemary and Raspberry

Soft skin: Blueberry and Basil

Detox: Cucumber and Lemon

Immune support: Grapefruit, Lemon and Lime