Healing Heat at Home – Self Care Routine
2020 has briskly reminded the world how important it is to have an at home self care routine. From our work locations changing, home routines being re arranged, and the world being in a state of constant caution and curiosity. We have had constant reminders to check in with out mental and physical health. Social distancing may have you looking for way to relax at home in place of going out for a girls day at the spa, or to your favorite weekend retreat location.
If you don’t already have a defined self care routine, creating one can be beneficial physically, emotionally, and mentally. You may already be incorporating a few self care activities into your routine without realizing it, so let’s dive in to a few of the most popular self care activities you can do at home involving heat.
Warm Bath
The comforting heat from a warm bath can be consoling and promote healing when you have congested sinuses, muscular aches and pains, or even cramps from your monthly cycle. Depending on the purpose of the bath you can mix in a corresponding essential oil, epsom salt, bath fizzier, or bath oil. Bath oils and Farmhouse Fresh Bath Fizzers are fantastic in the winter because they both contain moisturizing ingredients that will help boost hydration in your skin to keep it healthy and happy.
Warmth from the water can help invigorate circulation in your body which can aid in detoxing your body as well as soften dead skin so that it can be gently scrubbed away. We love the Norwex Body Mitt or Farmhouse Fresh Sugar scrubs for exfoliating in the winter.
If you have the ability to enjoy a hot bath before coming in for your massage it can help you achieve better results from your massage session. When available we recommend taking a 15-20 minute soak in a warm bath with epsom salt, or a bath fizzer within an hour of your appointment time. This can help relax hyper tense muscles, soothe tension from stress, and thoroughly clean skin so you can absorb all the hydration from your massage therapy
Heat Application
You can apply direct heat safely to your body in several ways. My favorite way to do so at home is with a neck wrap. You can heat it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes for a comfortable heat that will last for 15-20 minutes. My favorite neck wraps are from Sonoma Lavender, they have covers that zip off for easy cleaning in the washer machine and dryer and can be used hot or cold. Each neck wrap includes either Lavender flower buds, eucalyptus leaves, or a delectable natural fragrance of the ocean, or woodsy scent. They also have eye pillows, slippers, and heated wraps for larger areas of the body. Their quality is amazing and the lavender scent with the heat is a complete divine experience.
If you’re needing heat on the go, I love the Cora Natural Heat Pads. These stick to your clothing and are activated when they touch air. They last for 6-8 hours and are perfect when you need soothing heat at work or on the go. They pack easy for traveling, and are plant based, no chemicals here! If you need heat while you sleep, simply attach to your pajamas, and have the best sleep of your life!
Dry Sauna
One of my all time favorites for on going heat therapy is a dry sauna, now you may instantly be thinking of mob movies with all the older men in a sauna together, this is not the sauna I am talking about! When I think Sauna, I think of Sauna Space, and if you haven’t heard of them before you’re going to want to check them out! They have multiple options for conveniently having a dry sauna at home that is affordable, planet friendly, and a beautiful addition to your home decor! This can be beneficial for so many health concerns that everyone in your family can benefit from it (even the furry four legged family members!)
Natural Muscle Creams
You’ve all heard of Icy Hot and Bengay, but if you prefer more natural ingredients you may want to look into other muscle creams. The top two that I suggest using for gentle heat and cool sensations are Doterra’s Deep Blue Rub, and Yoga Balm. They both include top quality essential oils and are ethically sourced.
Yoga Balm is beeswax base, a little goes a very long way, and it can also condition skin. I really enjoy the fragrance from the oils as they fill the air when warming the product in your hands.
Doterra’s Deep Blue is in a cream consistency and can be applied quickly without needing to warm it up in your hands first. You’ll want to make sure you can wash your hands immediately after using both of these products. Getting them on your face can induce tears from the strength of the essential oils. They also are very comforting when dealing with nasal congestion and sinus issues.