Snowtime Like Bathtime

Wind gusting to 60mph and temperatures dipping into the twenties has made me think a LOT about a nice HOT bath! Of course I cannot fathom just a plain water bath, so I have to add oils or salts or something! Today I steeped a while in some Raphael's Healing Garden Bath Soak to help get some arthritic relief, but the Cleo's Bath Soak from my last bath left me feeling quite queenly, I must say! Next bath I am going to use my Luxurious blend, but today I thought you might enjoy some recipes you can try at home, or even make as Christmas presents!

MILKY BATH MIX

1 cup powdered milk

1 cup corn starch

1 cup baking soda

3/4 cup oatmeal

1/2 cup powdered chamomile flowers *

1/4 cup patchouli powder *

1/2 cup powdered lavender buds *

**If you do not have the flowers, you may substitute 3-5 drops of Essential Oils in place of the powders, just make sure that you mix thoroughly. Sifting the mixture works best to ensure even mixing.

Mix all ingredients together, then package as desired. Use 1/2 cup per bath, allowing mixture to dissolve in running, warm water. Relax and soak in bath for 15-20 minutes.

FIZZY BATH SOAK MIXTURE

1 cup baking soda

1/2 cup corn starch

1/2 cup citric acid

2 tablespoons sweet almond oil (or sunflower oil)

1 -2 teaspoons of your choice of Essential Oil or Fragrance Oil

Combine the baking soda & corn starch in a bowl, you can even add a few drops of food coloring if you want (just be careful to not use too much, you don't want a ring around your tub!). Then add the liquid ingredients and mix well, using a wire whisk, until completely combined. Next add the citric acid and whisk again, until well blended. Once well blended you can press into small balls or into molds. Allow to dry for a few hours, then they will be ready to use or to wrap and package for gifts.

WINTER BLUES AWAY BATH OIL

2 oz Sweet Almond Oil

6 drops pink grapefruit essential oil

10 drops sweet orange essential oil

Mix together well, then use in bath of warm water. Soak for 15-20 minutes, as these essential oils help to chase your winter blues away while the oil softens and soothes your skin!