Soak Your Stress Away
Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT

Stressed? Sore muscles? Try this simple treatment at home...
Epsom Salt, named after the South England town where the salt was first obtained, is comprised of magnesium and sulphate. It is widely prescribed to ease stress, reduce headaches, promote sleep, ease muscle tension, and aid detoxification. Adding the salts to your bath water following exercise or massage treatment can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and speed tissue repair. Epsom salts can be purchased from most pharmacies, department stores, or health food stores. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure your safety and enjoy your bath!

 2-4 cups of salts for a full bath (do not add soaps, oils, or other bath products)
 Soak for a minimum of 10 min, up to 25 min
 Sip cool water while bathing (plastic cup is safest in case you drop it) and keep a cold facecloth on the back of your neck or forehead to avoid overheating
 Allow the water to drain from the tub before you stand up, and rinse yourself with cool to warm water afterwards
 If possible, do not bathe while you are home alone
 If you have a diagnosed heart condition or high blood pressure, it is recommended to bathe with your heart above the level of the water and with a cold towel around your neck
 Shorter durations and lower water temperatures can increase your tolerance to the treatment
 If you have further questions or concerns, consult your healthcare professional.

*References: “Heat & Cold as Ty” by Laurel Fowlie; Epsom Salt Council (www.epsomsaltcouncil.org)