Later in this chapter, I will introduce the concept of setting intentions with healing baths (page 60). A meditative bath is the perfect place for this. While the other sections in this book are more focused on healing specific mental, emotional, or physical ailments, this section is more inspirational and intuitive, with blends designed to take you to a calm state where you can let go of your thoughts and be in the moment.
Practicing meditation every day can make you feel more grounded and happier overall. These meditative baths aren’t meant to replace your everyday meditation practice if you have one, but they are a delightful addition to it.
These recipes are a guide for grouping scents in a manner that stimulates your creativity. They might remind you of something you’d like to focus on in your meditation. Either way, this is your chance to be inspired; use your intuition as to which scents speak to you and connect to your intention.
How to Set an Intention for Your Bath
If you’re familiar with meditation or yoga, you may already be aware of setting intentions before settling into your meditative state. For those of you who have never done this before, don’t fret, it’s very easy!
First, draw the bath, toss in the salt soak or bath bomb, dim the lights and light candles, or do whatever it is you need to do to create a peaceful setting for the bath. After everything is set up and you’re settled in the tub, start your meditative bath by taking a couple of deep belly breaths. Breathe in through your nose down into your tummy and then breathe out through your nose or mouth. This does two things. First, it relaxes you. Second, breathing in the scents of the essential oils will evoke a certain feeling depending on which ones you are using. While you are doing this, set an intention for the bath in your mind. It could be one word or a phrase. For instance, if I’m feeling anxious for some reason, I may choose for my intention the word “acceptance” or “letting go” to bring me to a calmer state and reduce anxiety. Or, if I’m feeling pretty content, then I may choose “gratefulness” as my intention. You see, how you set your intention is completely up to you, and it could literally be anything. I would just recommend listening to your intuition to see if there’s anything that is bothering you, something you may need to let go of, or something you would like to focus on.
Once you state your intention in your mind, focus on it for a deep breath or two, then let it go and clear your mind. Continue to focus on breathing to stay in the present, leaving you in a peaceful and meditative state.