Recapturing Ancient Bath Magic
Water is a powerful and versatile element; it flows within and all around us. Our bodies are over 70% water. This inner water is a malleable and divine force if we learn to connect to that energy. The art of sacred bathing has been around for eons. Nearly every culture and spiritual practice has a unique ritual that honors and reveres this sacred art. If you look at our history, you will find many examples of the importance of water to the ancients; from pilgrimages to a holy river to the simple act of throwing a penny into a wishing well. Water has been and continues to be an essential element in human spirituality. Water is said to be our link between this world and the spirit realm, that subconscious place from which we draw our power and our magic.
Practicing being in the flow of life and moving like water can give us a deeper awareness of our own bodies and help us achieve inner growth. Bathing rituals are also key to the magic of healing. Baths cleanse us of our negative thoughts, energies, and help us find balance.
How To Design Your Own Sacred Bath
Intent:
Understanding your intention is a crucial element in creating the right atmosphere for your practice. In Tarot, Astrology and Science water is known as a conduit. It absorbs energy and amplifies its properties. This includes the energetic properties of crystals, herbs, oils, and roots. Water is also receptive to our words, blessings, and prayers. To start your sacred bath think about what intention you want to amplify in your life and meditate on that feeling and thought for a moment then begin to fill your tub.
Types of Sacred Bathing:
Although, there are many types of sacred bathing practices. I want to share with you a few of my favorites.
Energizing and Invigorating Bath
To give rise to more motivation and energy in your life use Tumbled Mookaite Jasper, to feel as though you can do and take on anything. It is known as “The Beauty Stone” and will help you tap into both your inner beauty and youthful exuberance.
In addition, light some orange candles around your bath. Orange is vibrant and combines the energetic nature of the color red and the happiness of the color yellow. Drop in some lemon essential oil to fight fatigue and add your Dead Sea salt. For an added touch of joy, include yellow flower petals such as Gerber Daisies.
Relaxation and Calming Bath
Use this bath to reduce stress and find a more calming state of mind. Use Phantom Amethyst, this powerful gem is particularly helpful during stressful times in your life. Adding it to your bath will help you achieve more harmony and master the art of balance within your day.
Surround yourself with purple or Lilac candles for strength, peace, and wisdom. Add several drops of Lavender Essential Oil for restlessness and anxiety, and sprinkle in your Dead Sea salt. Lastly, for even more of a soothing atmosphere, add lavender or chamomile buds.
Healing Bath
Rejuvenate your body and its ability to heal itself. Use Natural Bloodstone, which relieves muscle aches and injuries. It additionally helps with circulation and blood flow and has the potential to lower blood pressure, ease traumas and heal emotional pain.
Light white candles for purity, cleansing, and healing. Add the Smudge Bath Salts with their combined fragrance of White Sage, Myrrh, Artemisia, Argan, among others; as well as Epson salt and Dead Sea Salt.
Don’t have a Bath, Try a Shower:
Sacred showers are just as potent. Create an atmosphere of your choosing by adding the essential oils you want into a small cup of hot water and place it in the corner of your shower. Shut the door or curtain for a short time to allow their aroma to permeate the space. You can also choose an essential oil scent soap to help the oils connect with your skin and your body.
Place the candles around the edge of your sink and as close as possible to your shower. Spread the flower petals on the floor of the shower to create an energetic sanctuary.
*Note: Not all crystals are healthy to immerse in your bath. Review the properties of any stone you are wanting to use for your sacred bathing ritual. Some stones contain lead, arsenic, aluminum and other poisonous attributes not advisable for encounters with your skin. If unsure, you may also experience the powers of whichever stone you use by placing it on the edge of your bath near a candle to help reflect its energy on to the water.