A little self help goes a long way...

It's performance week for me, and that means that in addition to the mental stress that comes along with being not only the choreographer but one of the performers, it means that my back pain from a long standing injury has resurfaced as it always does during these intense times of rehearsal.  I decided to hop into the bubble bath tonight to get a little R&R.    

A few dollops of some lavender and I was in heaven!  (I recommend the L'Occitane foaming bath!!)

This essential oil can help to:

• aid in relaxation while de-stressing to calm feelings of anxiety (aromatherapy use)
• relieve tension-headaches when scent is inhaled
• reduce joint and muscle pain when used in massage oils 

A warm bath will:

• increase circulation
• provide soothing comfort
• soften connective tissues (I could even stretch in my tiny NYC tub!)
• relax muscle tension

It's important to drink water as you might actually sweat in the bath! Similar to the effect of a hot tub, the high temperature may make you feel a slight headache to follow.... so keep hydrated!  Take some deep breaths and allow your mind to rest as your body meets the natural buoyancy of the water which helps to reduce pressure on joints. 

I try to relax in a bath about one a week (which can be challenging but worth it!) and perhaps you should thinking of adding this to your New Year's Resolution list... it'll be a beneficial one to keep as our mental health is just as important as our physical health. 

Rub-a-dub-dub!!