Soothe Your Stress Levels in an Epsom Salt Bath

April 13, 2020

As we work together in our time of self isolation to flatten the curve, I invite you to consider an Epsom salt bath is one simple solution to help ease heightened stress levels for you and your loved ones!

Heightened stress levels in the body causes a depletion of the body’s magnesium levels. An Epsom salt bath is a relaxing way to increase your body’s healthy levels of magnesium and sulfate. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant while sulfate draws out toxins.

According to a study from the School of Biosciences at the University of Birmingham, the magnesium and sulfate found in Epsom salt are absorbed through your skin.Named for the spring in the town of Epsom in Surrey, England, these naturally occurring minerals offer a passive self-care option. Of course, it might not be so passive if you have to clean out your tub first, persevere, it’s so worth the effort!

As a Registered Massage Therapist, I rely on the healing powers of Epsom salt as one of many ways to assist a challenged body, mind and spirit to let go of tension. Doctors and researchers agree that a nurturing warm bath with Epsom salt envelops the body, mind and spirit to safely replenish magnesium levels, which in turn assists in easing stress. As an added bonus, the presence of magnesium aids in the chemical release of the mood elevating hormone serotonin, which promotes a state of well-being and relaxation.

If you struggle with cardiovascular issues or are pregnant before your soak it up in an Epsom salt bath, please consult with your doctor. Once you’ve got the green light to salt it up, dump 2 cups of Epsom salt (purchased from your local pharmacy or health food store) into hot running water and let the soaking begin! Relax in the bath for 10 to 20 minutes. While in the bath, I invite you to drink some water from a non-breakable glass to keep hydrated and spend some time visualizing all the stresses of your day just melting away!The IHI team is here for you! Please contact us if you need support during this weird and challenging time.

I love helping people and I love a challenge! Experience has taught me that by therapeutically listening to my patients, the craft of Massage Therapy profoundly aids in the relief of physical, emotional and spiritual tension and fosters consciousness of the self. I have developed this holistic philosophy of treatment by combining the dual diversities of my professional training. There are many tools in my therapeutic toolbox that can be uniquely applied to your specific condition. With your expressed consent, it’s my pleasure to be in touch with other members of your self-care team to contribute to the big picture of your health journey. Together, we can form an alliance for your well-being!

Nancy J Brooks RMT nbrooks@integrativehealthinstitute.ca