Years ago my daughter Lindsay and I took a weekend trip to Cambria, California, a small seaside tourist community. We were both finishing a week of school. She was in third grade and I was a fourth grade teacher. Friday evening we checked into our motel located across the road from Moonstone Beach. The next morning Lindsay hopped out of bed, (7 am to be exact) and insisted we begin our day. As for me, I longed for a little more down time. Having just completed a week of teaching and parent teacher conferences, this body wanted to ease into the day.
My cunning daughter remembered the rosemary growing alongside the sidewalk, just outside our motel room. Without hesitation, she harvested a handful and tossed it into a bath of warm water. Then she ushered me to the tub. I knew what she was up to but I had to admire her effort. That early morning rosemary bath worked wonders. Soon I was up and moving. In no time we were walking the beach, collecting a colorful little moonstones, and visiting our favorite shops. So much energy! All the stress and exhaustion from the work week must have been washed away in that rosemary bath.
If you are looking for energy, soaking in a rosemary infused bath might be just what your body needs. The directions are simple. If you do not have a rosemary bush, now is the time to purchase one at your local nursery.
Rosemary Bath
- Cut 2-3 long rosemary stems.
- Next, cut each stem into small pieces, about 3 inches in length.
- Lay the pieces on a 10 inch square of cheese cloth, muslin, or other porous cloth. Even an old t-shirt works well.
- Lift each corner to form a bundle. Secure with a rubber band and/or twine.
- Hold the bundle under the stream of warm running water and then let it float about.
I like to give the rosemary bundle a good squeeze while I’m soaking. This helps rosemary release her healing oils into the water. Many books and journals note that this herb improves circulation. Good blood flow means plenty of oxygen and nutrient rich blood flowing throughout the body. This is one of the best herbal baths for relieving muscle aches and pains. It also stimulates the nervous system, easing tension and mild anxiety. Many folks say bathing in rosemary improves their overall sense of well-being. I couldn’t agree more.
Just one word of caution, do not take a rosemary bath before going to bed.
If you have taken a rosemary bath, let me know what you think. Thanks, kathy
