Why Epsom Salt Baths Are The Highly Sensitive Person’s BFF
Epsom salt baths have been used for centuries for detoxification and relaxation.
However, epsom salt baths are much more powerful than the occasional soothing soak!
For the everyday Warrior God/dess, there comes a time when we need to replenish ourselves – on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels.
And epsom salt baths are part of my (now not so) secret regimen to address all of that!
Here are only a few benefits of epsom salt baths:
- They relax the muscles. Epsom salt baths are especially great for sore bodies, or after a workout, and works wonders on cramps. I often recommend them to my patients who have muscle pain and strain, especially if warmth helps their condition.
- They replenish the levels of magnesium in the body. Epsom salt = magnesium sulfate. Simply soaking in this bath is an easy way to absorb magnesium into the body. Most of us don’t realize that we’re magnesium deficient. Not having enough magnesium can look like: cramped muscles, anxiety, hyperactivity, difficulty getting to (or staying) asleep. This is because magnesium assists with the transmission of nerve impulses, detoxification, regulation of body temperature, production of energy, and the formation of healthy bones and teeth. And, the skin, being the largest organ on the body, can absorb magnesium well during an epsom salt bath. The skin’s absorbing ability is also a reason why magnesium sprays are great for spraying on sore body areas after a workout!
- They detoxify the body and halt the common cold in its early stages. When you start feeling a cold coming on, take thee to the bathtub! Soaking for about 20-30 minutes in an epsom salt bath detoxifies the body, and draws out whatever pathogens and toxins are still on the surface level, before they get deeper and cause a greater problem.
- They are calming and grounding. This is due to a couple of factors: the magnesium content, the warm water, and even the yin, holding nature of water. And, depending on how you do your soak, it can be effective for insomnia, as well! One of my patients, who took an epsom salt bath for the first time in years, exclaimed, “It was like being back in the womb! I just curled up into fetal position, and felt so comforted.” Exactly! In our very yang society of rushing, movement, loudness, and upward and outward energy, it is a balancing thing to bring in the yin of an epsom salt bath – where you can be held, contained, supported, and quiet, in the yin element of water.
Here’s why epsom salt baths are the Highly Sensitive Person’s BFF:
Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) tend to take in other people’s energy – to the extreme. As in, unknowingly take on someone’s toxic energy and keep it in their body extreme. The problem is, when we are unaware of this, it then becomes a part of us. And if the person who’s energy we’ve taken on is toxic, that can cause problems, leaving HSPs feeling: confused, scattered, exhausted, fatigued, irritable, and if they’re empaths, the actual symptoms of the said toxic person.
This is why I’m always spreading the word about clearing your personal energy, as well as the energy of your living space. And then following up with some psychic self-protection to keep your energy clear with healthy energy boundaries!
The reason why epsom salt baths are the HSP’s BFF is because they clear your aura.
Your aura is your energy field that emanates from your body, and there can be many layers to it. It will often radiate certain color outlines, depending on the state of your chakra (energy center) health, soul vibrations, and reflections of surrounding energy fields.
So, if you’ve accumulated a lot of denser vibrations, or are an HSP who’s been in the company of folks with darker energies, that will influence your aura and stay with you – unless you remove it.
There are many techniques you can use to clear your aura. But, the most relaxing, and thorough, by far is the epsom salt bath. It clears you from head to toe, and you get to soak it in and feel the magic work!
In fact, it is so effective for clearing the aura that I know of a shaman who depends on her waist-high container of epsom salt in her bathroom, specifically to take aura-cleansing baths after she performs a healing (her specialty is in removing entities.)
How to get your healing on with an epsom salt bath
I love these baths – particularly for detoxification, muscle relaxation, and clearing the aura (with a fabulous by-product of helping me sleep better that night.) To me, these baths are a healing ritual, and I treat them as such. Here’s my way of doing them:
Ingredients:
1-3 cups of epsom salt (the denser the vibration you’re carrying, the higher the number of cups)
1 cup baking soda (increases the detoxification effect, especially great for insomnia)
3-6 drops of essential oil blend (see below for my suggestions)
Intention towards your goal (healing, releasing, detoxing, fortifying, nutrifying, etc.)
Directions:
- Create the healing space: light some candles, incense, and get your music and/or book lined up.
- Mix the above ingredients together BEFORE dumping it into your warm bath.
- Dissolve the mixture in the water as it fills your tub.
- If you’re a Reiki practitioner, charge your bath with selected symbols.
- Rest in the tub for 20-30 minutes, while resting your head on a rolled towel. Since I enjoy bath time, I’ve invested in a spa pillow just for these soaks. I also love being immersed in the water, which regular bathtubs don’t allow, so I use this deep water bath overflow cover, which helps make the water level higher while you chill, covering you more fully. Imagine the toxins leaving your body, and going into the water.
- When you drain your tub, imagine all the energetic gunk getting sucked down into the earth, transforming into energy that is useful for others.
Favorite essential oil combos to use during epsom salt baths
These essential oils blends are based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as chakra balancing, which is how I learned them. But, feel free to experiment, and use your intuition, for a blend that suits you!
For cultivating self-love: Geranium, Neroli, Rose
For energy clearing: Frankincense, Sandalwood, Pine
For oncoming cold: Eucalyptus radiata or Eucalyptus globulus, ravensara, palmarosa
What is your favorite way to enjoy epsom salt baths?
Do you have favorite oils that you bless yourself with during a bath, and what are they?
I’d love to hear about them in the comments, below!
Auric blessings,
Copyright © 2016 by Alcantara Acupuncture & Healing Arts. All rights reserved. You may quote, copy, translate and link to this article, in its entirety, on free, non-donation based websites only, as long as you include the author name and a working link back to this website. All other uses are strictly prohibited.
All information on this website is my own opinion, and not to be taken as medical advice. Reliance on any information provided on this website is solely at your own risk. Please refer to your medical practitioner before making any medical decisions.
Welcome to the Alcantara Acupuncture & Healing Arts! Here you will find the most recent updates on my adventures as an urban Licensed Acupuncturist Reiki Master/Teacher, and Medicine Woman in New York City, as well as wellness tips to soothe the soul, live more vibrantly, and cultivate wholeness and balance. Enjoy the blog, and please say hello!
34 Comments
Marlyne
January 6, 2016I love reading your blog so many good information in there. I have done epson bath before same recipe but I put lavender oil in there and sea salt. I was never aware that I was cleaning my aura while doing it. last time I did that I slept for two days and felt great afterwards. thank you for taking time out of your busy day to write this articles.
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher
January 6, 2016Hi Marlyne,
So glad you’re enjoying my blog! Lavender is great for keeping the Qi moving. I appreciate your kind words.
Blessings,
Margarita
Kimberly
January 17, 2020I love a blend of lavender and peppermint especially for headaches and sometimes add eucalyptus too
Lorna
January 6, 2016Hi Margarita! Thank you for this! Like Marlyne, I’ve been taking epsom salt, baking soda and essential oil baths too. I knew of the detoxing and magnesium-fortifying effects but I didn’t know about its aura-cleansing effects or any of the other details. Thank you for sharing all of this information including the specific purposes of different oils. Also, I just ordered the overflow cover. Thanks again and Happy 2016!
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher
January 6, 2016Hi Lorna,
That’s great that you’ve been reaping the benefits of epsom salt baths for quite some time, now. I’m so glad that you’ve found this blog post helpful!
Happy 2016, to you, too!
Margarita
Regina
May 7, 2017Sending gratitude your way for the information about how epsom salt magnesium baking soda and the specific essential oils you mentioned not only are good for us physically but can help those of us sensitive to other people’s energy be protected and detox. These baths have been my saving grace over the years and I now have a better understanding why I’ve been drawn to this particular water mineral and oil healing…many thanks for sharing your energy knowledge and vibe….Regina
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher
May 14, 2017Hi Regina,
So glad the article is helpful, and confirmed something you already reap the benefits of!
Blessings,
Margarita
Regina
May 7, 2017Dear Margarita, I forgot to ask if burning frankincense incense can create a similar protective environment . If so I’d like to try that and switch from rose oil to neroli to See how my system responds. I’m cultivating cuourage clarity and confidence and would love any other tips you have that could be helpful. Warmly, Tegina
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher
May 14, 2017Hi Regina,
Burning frankincense incense is strongly clearing and protective! Burning it will be helpful for your living space, and clearing for your body while you’re in it. For continued protection outside of your living space, check out my article, “How To Protect Yourself From Psychic Vampires In The Concrete Jungle”.
Enjoy,
Margarita
Clara Song Lee
June 8, 2017Hi Margarita,
I just followed your instructions for this bath last night to a T, and it was SO WONDERFUL! I have been struggling to deal with the microaggressions and hostility that come from a very ignorant and highly privileged person in my life, and yesterday, things came to a head where I had to confront him about some things. The talk went well, and I’m proud of the way I conducted myself (thank God for Nonviolent Communication and the power of self-compassion and mindfulness), but it was still tough carrying all that negative energy from the weeks of interactions I’ve had to deal with.
So last night, I decided to follow your recommendation and try this bath soak, and it felt so amazing! I lit candles, put on some singing bowls, and let myself meditate as I soaked in the salts and essential oils. Today, I am feeling better than I have in weeks and felt empowered enough to take some concrete actions against him to protect myself and other vulnerable people in my life.
These kinds of tips for recharging oneself are so valuable, Margarita, and I am so grateful to you for sharing them. I feel like I am getting in touch with my inner light warrior, and I visit your blog whenever I need tips to protect myself before I enter into battle with the toxic and ignorant forces in our world. ^^
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher
June 12, 2017Hi Clara,
Yes, aren’t epsom salt baths delicious? Sounds like you really set an optimal mood for the healing bath. The fact that you felt such a difference afterwards means that you’ve probably been carrying other peoples’ energies for some time! In which case, regular personal cleansing (such as white sage, etc.) might be helpful for you. How exciting to see your light warrior emerge more clearly!
Enjoy,
Margarita
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June 27, 2017[…] Bathe with them. I’ve started taking more epsom salt baths to cleanse myself of excess energy I tend to pick up from people and places. I started throwing […]
Mary Ann
November 30, 2017I love frankincense along with eucylypus and lavender. I am going to start adding Mryhh. I find my baths so therapeutic. I attract a lot of energy from ppl that I must get rid of. I close my eyes and state my intentions for my bath. Then let nature take its course. I use only white candles during bathing. I leave my bathroom door cracked and a window cracked as well after a particular bad exposure. Release release release!
Joann
January 21, 2018About how much essential oil should I put in the bath and can I use lavender and frankensence together in the bath?
Star
February 1, 2018As an Empath I feel so much better after an Epsom salt bath, I feel lifted and clear. Thank you for your information about adding the baking soda. Will try that next time. Xx much love and light.
Vanessa
March 6, 2018Thank you for this lovely explanation. If I don’t have a bathtub, will a foot bath work? Peace to you!
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher, Medicine Woman
March 6, 2018Hi Vanessa,
A foot bath is great for the feet. But, if you’re truly looking for the full body effects, the whole body needs to be submerged in the bath.
Best,
Margarita
sandra
April 20, 2018Hi. I love the info you’ve provided. My 5yo has a bowel condition, hirschsprungs disease where a large segment of his large intestine has been removed due to lack of ganglion cells. He has loose stool but at times, holds it in instead of releasing. Would you think the bath you’ve described could help relax his body before i sit him on the toilet and which essential oil woul you suggest could help?
Blessings.
Margarita Alcantara, M.S.Ac., L.Ac., Reiki Master/Teacher, Medicine Woman
May 13, 2018Hi Sandra,
It is possible that epsom salt baths could help relax your son before sitting on the toilet, you can certainly try it! But, a pediatric acupuncture session with a Licensed Acupuncturist in your area would be more effective in addressing the issue.
Blessings,
Margarita
Sherley
August 18, 2018Thanks for this valuable information! At what time of the day you recommend we soak into this delicious and healing therapy? Also, why Frankincense please? I am still learning about it… Thank you so much for sharing this wisdom with us.
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September 30, 2019[…] Epsom salt baths have been used for centuries for detoxification and relaxation. However, epsom salt baths are much more powerful than the occasional soothing soak! For the everyday Warrior God/dess, there comes a time when we need to replenish ourselves – on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels. Click for full article >> alcantaraacupunct… […]
Why Epsom Salt Baths Are The Highly Sensitive Person’s BFF – Bonheurfitness
October 1, 2019[…] Epsom salt baths have been used for centuries for detoxification and relaxation. However, epsom salt baths are much more powerful than the occasional soothing soak! For the everyday Warrior God/dess, there comes a time when we need to replenish ourselves – on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels. Click for full article >> alcantaraacupunct… […]
Kerri
December 29, 2019Hi
I have only just stumbled across this awesome article, however I don’t own a bath! Any suggestions for alternatives to epsom salt bath!
Thankyou
Kerri
Linda Allen
January 14, 2020I use a few drops of pure Arnica oil to add to the healing, frankincense for adding to relaxing and helping sleep with good dream and great also for keeping cold and flu away and Rose hip oil for skin and beautiful soft silky hair
Lois
January 14, 2020Hi. Ive a question. I love tub bathing. But due to 2 knee & 1 hip replacements & spinal surgery (with 8 screws & rods) from L3 to my Sacrum, i can no longer get in /out of a tub. Do yiu know of any way i could do an epson soak /bath in my walk in shower. Thank you for any help. Love the info in your blog! Lois
Tracey
January 15, 2020A foot bath would help. But the more of you that’s submerged the better.
L'aura Maire Campisi
January 15, 2020I do not have a tub, and do soaks for my arms and legs and feet. You may want to try that in your shower!
Tracey
January 15, 2020Sandlewood, ylang ylang , & patchouli I mixed with my Epsom salts, baking soda and a bit of coconut oil.
Marge
January 16, 2020Wonderful article, I have always loved a good bath and have used Epsom salts but never could I imagine just how many more benefits I have been missing. I’m pumped for a new batch of salts and some scented oils!! Thank you for the post!
Fran
January 17, 2020Hallo from Africa Margarita,
Can you tell me whether these bath soaks have an impact on
high blood pressure please? Many thanks.
Antoinette Steil
January 18, 2020I was in an auto accident in ’77 and sustained a lot of broken bones. Long story short I went to a Natural Path right away and he gave me a list of minerals to take along with Epsom salt bathes. My favorite is with ginger root.
In a white tube sock add in this order
2-3 cups freshly Epsom salts
1/2 cup ginger root
Tie the tube sock around the faucet so the water runs through the sock. Soak for 20-30 minutes.
Ginger is excellent for inflammation along with being a great cleanser.
You can use oatmeal and Epsom salts in the say way to relieve itching skin, bee stings, and most skin issues.
Tricia
January 19, 2020I really enjoyed this article! I was intrigued by something you mentioned about a shaman who works with clearing entities. Would you be able to share this person’s name with me? Thank you again for sharing this blog.
Tricia
Amanda
January 19, 2020Thank you for this information. I have been taking epsom baths for years but recently started doing my own instead of buying after finding out a certain brand might not be that great. I have always felt like baths ground me.
Do you think there is ever too much in terms of frequency to be doing this? I take 3-4 baths a week with epsom but not the baking soda. That I will add into my routine and try the energy clearing meditations
Thank you again!
Wendy
February 13, 2020Do you believe that the floatation. In Dead Sea salts that some places offer are good for the releasing of toxic energy?