Unlocking the Power of Self-Care: A Journey of Rediscovery
As someone who’s always been highly sensitive and anxious, I’ve learned to navigate the world with caution. The slightest disturbance – a disheartening news headline, a blaring city siren, or a harsh comment from someone – can leave me feeling drained and vulnerable. After being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder at 19, I embarked on a journey to understand what wellness meant to me and how I could better manage my triggers. Meditation, yoga, counseling, and medication became essential tools in my arsenal. But amidst all these efforts, I stumbled upon a surprisingly simple yet potent practice that has had a profound impact on my overall health: the humble bath.
A Lost Art of Self-Care
In ancient Greece and Rome, bathing was more than just a hygienic ritual; it was a social activity, a form of entertainment, and even a means of convalescence. Elaborate bathhouses were built to accommodate thousands of people, fostering a sense of community and relaxation. However, with the rise of Christianity, bathing fell out of favor, seen as a sinful indulgence that prioritized bodily pleasure over spiritual pursuits. These attitudes persist in our culture today, where we’re often encouraged to prioritize productivity over self-care and view our bodies as mere objects to be perfected.
Unlearning Damaging Cultural Attitudes
Growing up, I internalized these harmful beliefs, perpetuated by TV, pop music, and magazines. I was taught that my body was an object to be criticized, that indulgences should be limited, and that loving myself should come second to pleasing others. The bullying I endured in fourth grade only reinforced these negative self-perceptions. But in the safety of my bath, I found solace. Alone in the swirling waters, I connected with my growing body and mind in a positive, joyful way.
Rediscovering the Joy of Bathing
Years later, my partner reintroduced me to the therapeutic power of baths. Watching him prioritize his own self-care inspired me to do the same. When I entered a particularly anxious period, he began drawing me baths, and I was hesitant at first. But as I sank into the warm, fragrant water, I felt a long-lost part of myself resurface. The childlike innocence, grief, and shame I’d suppressed began to bubble up, and I met them with acceptance and compassion.
A Weekly Ritual of Self-Love
Today, baths have become a weekly ritual for me. I create a peaceful atmosphere with candles, incense, and soothing music, and season the bath with salts, bath bombs, and essential oils. Even a little cannabis, legally obtained in my home state of Washington, can enhance the experience. The results have been profound: I’ve learned to manage my anxiety, and I haven’t had a full-blown panic attack in years. By prioritizing self-care, I’ve taken back control of my mental and emotional health.
Leave a Reply