Hey there,
This morning I discussed getting through the holiday season. You’ll undoubtedly have a mix of emotions over the next couple months.
You may find you’re more anxious when faced with having to make decisions about this holiday season. I would like to offer you a relaxation technique that I’ve followed since the time I was a young adult- soaking in a hot bath, preferably with Epsom salts.
Yes, you read that correctly, I want you to take a bath. But not any old bath, I want you to add Epsom salts to your bath. You can get them at any pharmacy, grocery store, or big box store. Just be sure to check the label that the salts are made from a pure mineral compound of magnesium sulfate.
Can a bath really make a difference?
Do you remember the Calgon commercials from the 1970’s? I’m referring to the one where a very frustrated woman screams, “Calgon, take me away!”
Even though I was young I believed all the troubles this woman had simply melted away with the running water. (That’s the power of advertising for you!)
Regardless of the reason I relish the times I can soak in a tub. I’m a bit of a bookworm and for me there is no better way to relax than grabbing a book or magazine and laying in the tub until either the water turns cool or my fingers and toes are more wrinkled than a raisin.
As an adult and having to cope with stress from school, work, relationships, and being a parent- soaking in a tub before bed is a surefire way for me to relax and enjoy a sound and restful sleep.
Why magnesium?
Magnesium is a major mineral found in our bodies. Magnesium is found in our bones, muscle tissues, other tissues and fluids.
According to Massachusetts Institute of Technology – magnesium is essential for energy production, protein formation and cellular replication (e.g., DNA, RNA). It is as important as, if not more important than calcium and phosphorus. Magnesium works with calcium in muscle contraction and relaxation (calcium-contraction, magnesium-relaxation). It also works with vitamin D, potassium and other minerals. It is employed in at least 300 enzymatic reactions within the body, many relating to energy. It helps reduce blood pressure, reduce vascular spasm and improve heart function and also helps regulate calcium metabolism.
Magnesium is a powerful mineral that we need to SURVIVE. I will be addressing magnesium in greater depth in the future, but for today I simply want to make you aware of the benefits of magnesium as a wellness tool you can use throughout the holiday season.
Why add Epsom salts?
Epsom salt is a pure mineral compound of magnesium sulfate.
Taking a bath with Epsom salts added to it can help to:
• Relieve stress
• Aid in sleep
• Fight cold symptoms
• Relieve aches and pains
Any time my children complain of soreness from growing pains or sports I tell them to soak in the tub with Epsom salts.
If you have diabetes, please check with your doctor before you use Epsom salts. Magnesium absorbed through the skin can alter blood sugar levels.
As with any health and wellness tools I give related to diet and/or absorption of vitamins and minerals please check with your doctor if you are currently taking any prescription medications.
Don’t worry, you can still soak in a hot bath to relieve stress and you certainly get magnesium by eating any of the following foods:
• Nuts – Almonds, cashews, peanuts
• Spinach
• Black Beans
• Avocado (we’ve seen this power food mentioned before)
• Baked potato with skin on
• Brown rice
Your health and well-being are very important to me.
I know first-hand the struggles you may face over the next few months. As I’ve recommended before, be kind to yourself, especially during the holiday season.
Peace be with you.
Pam
PS. To read this mornings blog Getting through the holidays with grief, click here.