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Bathing has been a ritual and popular pastime for hundreds of years. Centuries ago in Rome and Greece, stately bathhouses were considered a place to for the elite to congregate, to socialize and be seen. These gorgeous structures were built in all the major city centers, complete with marble pillars and large, often colorful communal tubs. Food and drink abounded, servants hurried between bathers offering massage, towel service, and therapy. Music and dance offered entertainment for those inside, and only the most affluent were allowed to pass through the doors. Later, after a decline in communal bathing (mostly due to religious groups who regarded bathing as a pseudo-sexual and, ironically, an unclean activity), bathing became private. Bathtubs of all shapes and sizes were soon found in private residences but still considered a privilege reserved for the upper class. Private bathing increased in popularity as a way to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit. Soon bathtubs became a fixture in homes throughout the world. In Europe and Asia, the practice of bathing continues to thrive. In England in particular, large clawfoot tubs are quite popular and in the US, the demand for larger, more comfortable tubs is on the rise. In a culture where quick showers and efficient personal hygiene reigns, more and more Americans are turning to bathing as an alternative. This modern age presents us with endless activity - constant communication via new technologies and gadgets, longer workdays, larger families, thousands of television channels, video games, and consumer electronics. We are constantly busy, easily distracted by the newest, fanciest shiny object. To create some hint of balance in our lives we take meditation classes, yoga, or tai chi; we read self-help books, pop pills and pay professionals to help us simplify our lives. We are on a constant race towards the impossible goals of perfection, of endless youth and boundless energy. We want to be the richest, thinnest, youngest, happiest, and most successful, and we spend thousands of dollars in our quest to get there. It’s obvious - we need to slow down. Bathing offers an unmatched respite from all the noise mentioned above. It is a miracle for your mind and your body - it is the true fountain of youth, as it smoothes your skin, tightens pores and lifts out toxins. Bathing increases circulation, lowers blood pressure and alleviates stress. Bathing can treat the ailments which plague our pores, help our skin defend against harsh climates, pollution, and the effects of aging. It is inexpensive, relaxing, and can be done any time. Bathing is a universal healer. It gives us a chance to take time out from our busy lives, to indulge our spirits and our bodies. It’s a much-needed excuse to unplug the phone, turn off the television, shut down the computer. Bathing offers us solitude in a society where we are each, constantly, on call. We can close the door and enjoy tranquility and quiet, if only for a few stolen moments before returning to the outside world. But we will return with new energy, resilience and beauty. To learn more about bathing and sea salt benefits please visit San Francisco Salt Company's website at http://www.sfbsc.com.
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