Creating a rejuvenating zen bath routine to nurture and rejuvenate you.
Rejuvenating Zen Bathroom
Just saying zen makes me feel a bit more relaxed. Soaking in a hot bath at the end of the day is one of my favorite things to do- that little bit of quiet time is so good for inspiring me to slow down and close my eyes and just ‘be’ for a bit.
A bathroom can be just a place to get ready for the day and serve the usual purpose. Or it can be a wonderful place to indulge in a calm, serene, and soul-nurturing place that allows you to make some time to put yourself first and ‘regroup’ and ‘breathe out’ and restore a bit of balance. While not everyone has a bath tub to soak in- a hot shower can do wonders as well and can bring the same feeling and balance to your day as a bath. And even though we are talking about bathrooms today- you can create a ‘zen routine’ just by setting aside time for yourself each day in your favorite way.
However a calming ‘zen’ feels and looks to you- there is no right or wrong way to create that space that rejuvenates you. The key here is in the routine. Even if that is just spending 10 minutes using a face mask while reading a chapter in a book. Creating a more relaxing routine to fall into each week may be just what you need to invite a little more inspiration, positivity, and balance.
And thankfully, it’s easy to do in just a few steps. Today we are sharing 7 of our favorite tips for creating the perfect zen routine and rejuvenating space to unwind in after a long day.
1. The Right Atmosphere
The right atmosphere is so important. We talk about ambiance when it comes to table settings and in the house all the time. And the bathroom is no different. But though it is often considered to be more of a utilitarian space- the ambiance can be lacking. But the right atmosphere can instantly turn a plain, simple bathroom into a luxurious spa. From the way it’s decorated to how bright the lighting is, all the details in your surrounding space are what help to create that calming, meditative, and stress-free place to retreat to for a bit at the end of the day.
Whether this means lighting your favorite scented candles, putting on a playlist of your favorite music, or turning on your essential oil diffuser, surrounding yourself with all the things that speak zen to you is a great way to bring in the atmosphere and can help to give you a deeper, soul-enriching experience unlike any other.
2. A cozy plush towel and robe
I will admit- I have not been to a ‘spa’ for a spa day- though living near Calistoga and those famous mud baths, I am tempted. But even so, I have stayed at resorts or hotels that offer spa treatments and they usually have a similar feel in their decor and plush details in the rooms. Relaxing and free of distractions. Plush. Cozy. Indulgent. all come to mind. And I do take advantage of those chunky towels, bath salts and body oils and a plush robe and slippers they set out to enjoy while staying with them. And some of those details are easy to add right to your own home.
A favorite robe and a pair of slippers to cozy up and relax in at the end of the day is perfect. I will admit- I am wearing my wearable blanket robe as I write this- and it is my favorite to start the day and cozy up in at night.
3. Hydrate with a face & hair mask
I am a big fan of face masks and scrubs- and I use them several times a week. Not only can masks give your hair and skin a healthy and hydrating boost they deserve, but they can also help make your bath or shower time feel more enriching and beneficial. A hair mask is much the same- but for your hair. I have found that even while straightening my hair less recently- it is still dry and needs some extra love during winter. Stay tuned for a post with our favorites for nurturing skin and hair coming up.
4. Soak up your favorite salts & soaps
It wouldn’t be a rejuvenating bath if we didn’t incorporate some of our favorite bath salts and soaps. Whether you prefer sea salt or Epsom salts, bath salts naturally help to detox the body, relax the muscles, and give you an all-around serene and balanced feeling when you soak in them.
For the shower- I love to use a salt scrub for a similar feeling. Salt scrubs exfoliate your skin & they usually also have an oil base which helps to replenish.
5. Lather up with bath oils
Bath & Shower oils add a warm and subtle aroma to your room and they are also excellent for soothing tired and dry skin. We gravitate towards soft floral-based oils, such as rose, peony, jasmine, or lavender oils.
They also add a positive tone to the environment and inspire more profound relaxation and peace of mind- but you can add any scent that speaks tranquility to you. Favorite scents can serve as great aromatherapy for calming nerves and putting you in a more mindful state of being.
6. Pick out some beauty tools to use
If you’re looking to do some extra pampering during your bath is to make sure you have some of your favorite beauty tools close by. This could be something as simple as a bath brush for exfoliation, a loofah, or a crystal roller for a calming facial massage.
7. Utilize a bathtub tray or a side stool
And lastly, a great tool to have for your bath if you want to have personal things close by is to use a bathtub tray. A bath tray is just as it sounds – it’s a tray for the bath where you can set items to have better access to them while you soak. And while you can put just about anything on a bath tray, a few ideas for things you might consider putting on there include candles, books, a tablet, a journal, and a glass of your favorite tea or wine.
Of course, if you aren’t a fan of bath trays, having a simple stool next to the bath is also another great option for keeping your personal belongings in arms’ reach. Something fun I have used in place of a stool is a vintage step- ladder- I love the quirkiness and charm it brings and it is a great place to layer some candles and flowers.
Zen Feeling
More than anything, creating a zen bathroom & routine can bring a new definition to the term relaxation for you. Whether that’s through multi-tasking with beauty practices while you relax or simply setting the right ambiance for a meditative mindset, it is all about putting you first- even for just 20 minutes. Set aside time each week to relax into a serene routine that can help you to release stress and rejuvenate your energy.
Favorites For Creating a Zen Bathroom routine
Shop some favorites to get the look and feeling in your bathroom. Just click the photo to see more.
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Terri says
Thank you so much for the links included in your lovely post! Heading over now to purchase the Body oils!!
laurie says
Thank you for sharing your wonderful ideaas for a self care experience. Can you tell me where you found your chandelier? this is exactly the small bathroom addition i’m looking for. Laurie
Courtney says
Hi Laurie, it is vintage- a thrift store find.