The pleasures of the bath are aeons old, as it has long been recognized that bathing need not be just a cleansing experience, but can also be an indulgent one. The ancient Arabians and Romans, among others, built magnificent bathhouses, one Roman example of which survives today at Bath, England, and can be visited by the public. The ancient Minoans of Crete are credited with having invented the first-known flush toilets.
In centuries gone by, expensive, fragrant essentials oils and unguents were often employed before, during, and after bathing. Flowers, fruits, grasses, herbs, roots, and seaweed were all floated in bathwater, as well, to provide soothing or uplifting aromatic qualities.
Surveys show the fragrances to which men are most attracted are those associated with kitchens and cooking. The aromas men most prefer are pumpkin, lavender, and cinnamon. Vanilla also ranks high on men’s lists. So, for a special evening, Rebecca suggests that instead of dabbing on your own favorite perfume or spraying on your own favorite cologne, you try adding a few drops of oil of lavender, cinnamon, or vanilla to your bathwater or skin.
To preserve the legendary softness of her own skin, Egypt’s Queen Cleopatra is said to have bathed in a bathtub filled to the brim with goat’s milk. Oatmeal, pumice stones, and sea salt were also used to smooth and exfoliate the skin; and natural sponges harvested from the sea served as both washcloths and toilet paper.
You can acquire effects similar to those of Queen Cleopatra by pouring a milk bubblebath, bath oil, and/or bath salts into your own bathwater. Inexpensive alternatives are powdered milk, mineral oil, and table salt. Oatmeal and pumice stones remain popular even today, as do natural sponges. Also available are synthetic and net sponges, and loofahs. Pumice stones are particularly effective against callouses on the feet.
You really don't need to spend time at a spa to enjoy an inviting, special bath. While you're soaking at home, simply float some fresh flowers in the water; light some candles and incense; play some soft, serene music; and relax by meditating or reading a good book. As the ancients knew, taking time to pamper yourself will do wonders not only for your body, but also for your mind and spirit --- particularly in this hectic day and age.
When you're finished, give your skin a satiny sheen and feel by slathering it generously with mineral oil to seal in moisture before gently toweling yourself dry. Make sure your towels are clean and fluffy. A warm towel is especially nice. Afterward, apply a thin coat of liquid bath powder to your body. Rebecca recommends Signature Club A's Angel Veil Liquid Talc.
Both you and your skin will feel heavenly!
Once your leisurely, romantic bath is completed, pamper yourself still further by slipping into a silky, sexy negligée and treating yourself to a glass of wine or champagne.
Enjoy!
   
   
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