How to Make Your Showers Feel Extra Relaxing and Luxurious

This article is part of own week off, an editing package dedicated to reducing workload.If the past few years have taught us anything it is to take care of ourselves physically and emotionally, without which it is impossible real downtime. With that in mind, we’re launching articles ahead of the new year to help you get into the habit of resting, relaxing, and slowing down. (We took our own advice: Own The staff will be terrible during this time! ) We hope to inspire you to relax and take a break, no matter how you look.

It’s not often you hear showers described as “luxury.” Bathroom gets all the glory And showers are usually practical when it comes to lots of suds: You jump in, you get the job done, and get on with your life.Sure, a routine shower can be refreshing and soothing, but it doesn’t have to feel like self care. if your life is full, showering can feel like just another thing on your to-do (or don’t have time for) list. Many of us squeeze into the shower before work, at the gym, or during other busy times, so they’re often in a hurry. (I don’t know about you, but if the clock is ticking, I’ll never feel completely relaxed).

The only really relaxing showers I have are after my Sunday morning run.Not only is my body sweaty, exhausted, and craving a steady stream of pressurized hot water, but by then, I’ve usually gotten most of it weekend chores Get out of the way so I can enjoy my most coveted luxury: time. When I can take my time, suddenly my mind isn’t so focused on what I’m going to do next, shave legs Less boring, and I’m actually content to be right where I am.

I sincerely look forward to the way weekend showers get me thinking not only about how to elevate their luxury, but how I can bring some of their rejuvenating energy into my day-to-day life—even when I’m busy. Whether you want to take a quick shower or have a lot of time, I hope this list of tips from experts and my life will help you enjoy a more luxurious shower experience, a lot of more relaxed.

1. Focus on what is in front of you.

Mindfulness has show have a stress-reducing effect on the mind and body, such as SELF previously reportedbut you don’t have to do formal meditation practice Reap some relaxing benefits. “Informal mindfulness practices can also seem like just tuning in to your senses during mundane tasks, like taking a shower,” Beverly Ibeh, PsyDlicensed clinical psychologist Thriving Psychology Group someone who specializes in mindfulness-based therapy tells SELF.

To shower more mindfully, examine your thoughts, says Dr. Ibeh. Maybe, at first, you’re rehearsing a work presentation, worrying about your after-shower plans, or anxiously replaying past events. Dr. Ibeh explains that by simply paying attention to your thoughts, you can distance yourself from them, which can make it easier to turn your attention to your environment.