Bathroom = Sanctuary—really!

Recently I had a client in for a facial who was living a very stressful life. She was so excited to be in my treatment room experiencing some relaxation and “down-time.” In the confines of my facial room your kids, phone, and any other distractions simply can’t find you. And although there is something wonderfully relaxing about a facial treatment, there are things you can do in your own home that can help you find a bit of peace and quiet. It’s as simple as...going to the bathroom.

I recommended to this client that she use her bathroom as a sort of secret sanctuary room. While in the bathroom with the door closed rarely does anyone come knocking; usually you are left alone to do what you need to do. I suggested she use this truth as an opportunity to get some relaxation time—even if only for a minute or two.

Although we were laughing through this, what I said I really meant. Go into the bathroom, preferably the one that is used the least (less traffic) and shut the door. Put the toilet seat down and sit. I suggested having a lavender scented candle there she could lite (something that wouldn’t even be unusual in a bathroom) as well as an iPod with earphones in a nearby drawer. Simply turn out the lights, lite the candle, put the earphones on and tune into some relaxing music, like the kind I play in my facials.

Five minutes in the bathroom could be like an hour of relaxation to your body. Don’t or really can’t take 5 whole minutes? Then start with one. Taking just sixty seconds, literally, to sit on the closed toilet seat, drop your shoulders, take some healthy deep breathes, and R-E-L-A-X can make a world of difference to your psyche. Peace and quiet—even if it’s only for 60 seconds—means a lot. And one or two minutes away from your family and responsibilities is nothing!

Knowing you have this secret, accessible place to go into will help to ease any stress you may be going through in the household. Just tell whoever you have to go to the bathroom. No one will question this—really! Then take a minute or two to decompress and relax, and you’ll leave your sanctuary room/bathroom in a more peaceful and balanced place, ready to take on the goings on with your family life. Try it—what have you got to lose?

For more ideas, see:

• Bathtime Quick Tips (plus Do Not Disturb Me sign ideas)
• Solutions for Stressed Skin
• Taking Time Out—Less IS More

Ha Ha—If only!!!