(BPT) - Your shower can be more than just a way to get clean, and the viral "everything shower" trend proved just how easy it is to build a head-to-toe self-care routine that provides physical, mental and emotional benefits.
Researchers have studied the effects of showering and discovered the science behind its rejuvenating powers. Hot showers can signal your brain to release oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that helps reduce stress and anxiety. The heat from a shower also relaxes your muscles, clears your nasal passages and clears your pores of dirt and oil.
Beyond science, showers are a rare opportunity to take a break from your busy schedule to focus on your well-being. Are you ready to elevate your shower into a self-care ritual? Inspired by National Self-Care Day, Waterpik™ showers partnered with New York City Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, and Dr. Karen Litzy, PT, DPT, to help curate these five tips to transform your shower into a relaxing and refreshing experience.
1. Ditch your phone
Your self-care shower begins before you even step inside the bathroom. Leave your phone in your office, living room or bedroom to disconnect from the world and minimize distraction. This simple act helps you focus on yourself and your well-being, away from the stresses and responsibilities of your life. As you step into your bathroom, embrace a peaceful moment of solitude.
2. Create a relaxing ambiance
Harsh or bright lighting is counterproductive to relaxation. Set the mood by lowering the lights in your bathroom and lighting candles. Candles, whether scented or unscented, create a soft, glowing ambiance that can calm your racing thoughts and put your mind at ease.
Enhance your shower experience by playing soothing music. Play nature sounds like a tropical rain or burbling brook, instrumental music, singing bowls or whatever sounds you associate with calmness and tranquility. Guided meditations are also a fantastic choice for promoting mindfulness so you can stay present in this moment of self-care and gratitude.
3. Pamper your scalp and hair
Don't rush through your hair care routine. Use your shower time to pamper your hair and scalp. In addition to letting a hair mask or deep conditioner nourish your locks, give your scalp a little attention with a gentle scrub and massage.
Scalp and hair care is effortless with the right tools. Consider getting the Waterpik™ HairWand Pulse spa system for a luxurious way to care for your hair and body right at home. The Waterpik HairWand Pulse spa system provides fast, effective rinsing. The pulsating comb shape spray of the Waterpik HairWand shower head delivers a relaxing scalp massage that reaches down to your roots and can help relax you, remove visible flakes, and leave your scalp feeling clean. New York City Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, says, 'Clogged pores and scalp flakes are two of the most common complaints dermatologists get from patients. Proper showering is important for skin health, both to remove soiling that builds up on the skin as well as shampoos and body washes. Your shower head is more important than you may realize, as it provides the action for effective rinsing.'
4. Massage your muscles
Take advantage of the muscle-soothing power of a hot shower and give yourself a massage. If you haven't already, invest in a shower head with massage settings to unwind your muscles and release tension.
Dr. Karen Litzy, PT, DPT, recommends choosing the Waterpik™ PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower head. 'It is neither economical nor realistic to have a massage every time you have achy muscles. Although not quite the same as a hands-on massage, the Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower head is the perfect alternative. With the handheld shower head feature, you can focus the massaging water stream directly over the muscles that need it most. It is an inexpensive way to get the benefits of water massage without the price tag of going to the spa.' The Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage has two times the massage force* and is clinically shown to help soothe muscle tension, increase flexibility and promote restful sleep. The Waterpik shower head provides therapeutic benefits that transform your daily shower into a restorative wellness experience.
5. Enjoy the post-shower glow
Rushing to get dried and dressed after your shower defeats the purpose of your relaxing routine. Take your time after your shower to towel off, moisturize your skin and dry your hair. Bask in the glow of your self-care practice and carry the calm and peace of your shower into the rest of your day.
Self-care isn't just about spoiling yourself. It's essential for maintaining your well-being. Using these five simple tips, you can elevate your basic shower into a luxurious self-care ritual.
*Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower heads have two times the massage force compared to Waterpik non-PowerPulse massage shower heads.
