Benefits of Roman Baths: 5 steps to create your own Roman Bath

Public baths were a part of ancient Greek towns but were usually limited to a series of hip-baths. The Romans added a lot more facilities and expanded the Roman bath network to smaller towns as well. They served as places of hygiene, socialization and healing. They were accessible to everyone and included a variety of rooms: exercise rooms, open air swimming pool, superheated dry and wet sweating rooms, warm rooms, cool rooms and massage rooms.

One of the main ingredients of the Roman bath ritual was olive oil. It was used before entering the bath for its cleansing properties, as well as after the bath for its hydrating properties.

Another ingredient used before entering the hot room was clay. It was often mixed with water, creating a paste that could be applied on the skin. It helped remove excess oil, exfoliate the skin and help with skin conditions.

Salt was also an important element of the Roman bath since it was commonly used in ancient Roman and Greek medicine. Saltwater baths were not only hydrating and toning the skin, but they were thought to promote circulation and reduce inflammation and muscle pain.

The baths were also rich in Essential oils such as lavender and chamomile for their calming effect, basil and mint oils for their invigorating character. Rose oil and flower petals were added for their soothing romantic scent and as decoratives.

The most luxurious component of the public baths in Ancient Greece and Rome was wine. It was either diluted in the water for its antiseptic properties or applied to skin to rinse the clay or just cleanse and tone the skin. It would also give a luxurious aroma in the bath area and, of course, it played a big role in the social enjoyment as it was shared amongst the bathers.

 

5 Steps To Create Your Own Roman Bath At Home

1. Set the Scene

Light your favourite Roman Bath candle by Zakiya to create a tranquil ambiance reminiscent of ancient Roman Baths.

2. Prepare the bathwater

Add a generous amount of bath salts to the water to relax your muscles, detoxify your skin and promote overall well-being. Then, mix a small amount of clay into the bathwater to create a luxury and rejuvenating experience.

3. Enhance with wine

Pour yourself a glass of wine to enjoy while soaking in the bath.

4. Anoint with body oil

Before entering the bath, massage your body with your favourite body oil. This will moisturize and nourish your skin, leaving it soft and supple.

5. Rinse with warm water

After soaking, rinse off any remaining clay with warm water and pat your skin dry. Then take a moment to enjoy the lingering aroma of lavender and basil and the sense of calm and rejuvenation.