DIY Skin Soothing Bath Mix

I've always been a fan of showers, mostly because they're just quick and easy. However, I've recently discovered how amazing taking a bath can be. I always knew it was (supposed to be...) relaxing and all, but I never realized it could also have so many health benefits!

My body has definitely undergone a few changes since I got pregnant; sore muscles, incredibly dry and itchy skin, and twitching legs were some of the things I was struggling with. So I knew I had to make changes to my regular 'routine' and started researching my options.

I was committed to find a pregnancy-safe, all natural, easy and cheap solution and I'm so excited to share my discovery:  a quick mix of a few simple ingredients resulting in a miracle bath!! To create the basic bath mix, simply poor the following ingredients into a medium warm bath:

Yes, it is really as easy as that! Of course you can add all sorts of things to this basic mix, like essential oils, fresh herbs, ground oats, honey, milk, vinegar, you name it… But honestly, just these basics will do the trick. This is how they work:

Epsom Salt is rich in minerals (especially Magnesium) that can help you relax and rejuvenate. By adding the salt to your bath, you give your body time to soak up the minerals that will soften your skin, help detoxify your system and sooth your muscles.

Baking Soda has a softening effect on the skin and will help relieve the dry and itchy feeling. It's said to be a natural cleanser, balance your skins natural pH values and sooth irritation.

Coconut Oil is something I swear by (I also use it to make my Hand & Body Scrub and it's one of my Pregnancy Skin Care Favourites). I love the moisturizing and softening effect it has on my skin, without leaving it oily. By adding it to the bath, it will dissolve into the water and slowly soak into your skin.

A few things of note:

• Avoid a hot bath, especially if your pregnant! While taking a warm bath has many benefits, a hot bath can raise your overall body temperature, which can be harmful to your baby. Also, the hot water will not do your skin any good. Before getting in, I make sure the temperature isn't above 37 °C.
• The oil can make the tub a little slippery, so be careful getting in and out!!
• There is no need to overdo the ingredients, you don't want the bath to be too strong. This is not a one-time-fix-all type of thing. However, results will start to show by taking regular baths about 2-3 times a week.
• Staying in the tub for about 12-15 minutes is enough.
• Because the bath also detoxifies the body, it's important to stay hydrated and drink enough to help your body get rid of the toxins that your releasing.
• If you want to help your body detoxify, you can dry brush your skin before getting into the tub. This will stimulate the lymphatic system that helps release the toxins. Learn more about dry brushing in this article on Huffington Post.
• Some say Magnesium deficiency is the real cause of morning sickness. If you're interested in reading more about Magnesium deficiency, try this article on Cheeseslave or this article on Mommypotamus.
• If you're pregnant and want to add essential oils to the bath, make sure they are safe. This article on Modern Alternative Pregnancy and this article on Smile and Wave have some nice guidelines for using essential oils while pregnant.
• Interested in reading more about Epsom Salt baths? Try this article on Discovery - Fit and Health.
• I'm sharing my personal experience and opinion in this post. I'm not a doctor and this is not a substitute for medical advice. If you're nervous about any medical condition you (may) have or about your pregnancy, please consult a qualified health care professional.