Ciara O’Shea on the endless joys and benefits of a long hot bath.

nature of connecting to it, the water’s meditative powers, and quieting down the mind. The bible tells stories of it, the Buddhists worship it, the ancient Indians and Romans had elaborate systems dedicated to it. To maintain her vitality and beauty, Cleopatra would slip into a milk bath daily. Japan, Russia, Hungry, and Switzerland all have communal bathing at the core of their culture. It transcends all barriers and boundaries.

The act of bathing is connected to the biggest parts of my life, the most excellent adventures and the darkest hours. The benefits of relaxation, meditation, and cleanliness never grow old. It is an ancient ritual, and for me, a sacred space to be alone and indulgent. It starts long before the twist of a tap. Perhaps it was a heady waft as I turned the lid of a particular powder, oil or tonic. The sound of my hands against a ceramic vessel. Maybe it was something I read, an image I saw, or a film I watched. Any excuse to have a bath.

I believe in a fully immersive experience. To begin, I light my chosen candles. Always two complementary scents dictated by the atmosphere I want to create. I let them fill the room with their fragrance while I place a fresh towel and a dressing gown within arm’s reach. I wrap my hair up in a scrunchy and clean my face using a cleansing balm to remove the residue of the day and start afresh. All important parts of the process.

Running the water to a hotter-than-I’d-like temperature, I start to fill the bath. First, in goes the magnesium flakes for recovery, then the powder for repair, and the oil for hydration. I know people love a glass of wine in the tub, but not me, and I am a big fan of wine. I don't exfoliate in there either, that is strictly shower etiquette. The bathtub is for bathing.

Once it’s full, I sink in and recharge, allowing the mixture of scents and textures to swallow me. I take time to luxuriate, relax, dream. When I’m done, I re-emerge and slather a beloved cream all over my body, throw on my dressing gown and finish my routine with a face serum and cream. When all steps are complete, I reach for my pyjamas and delight in their freshness.