For better or for worse, some parts of our house get more attention than the rest. For most homeowners, decorating the master bedroom or the living room takes precedence over the bathroom or the basement. Sometimes people feel that as long as the bathroom is clean and functional, why bother making it look inviting?
The truth is that the bedroom and bath are the two spaces that are completely personal and entirely devoted to how you use the rooms. When you think about decorating the living room, dining room, or foyer, a major focus is on guests and how the space looks to them. The perspective shifts when you consider your master bedroom, where it’s almost completely about how you feel and what you want the room to look like.
It’s unfortunate that the bathroom gets lost in the shuffle but it’s one of the most important spaces in your home. It’s where you start your day and relax at the end of it.
You need a time and place to relax
Experts agree that it’s important for everyone to take some time out of the day to relax. Whether it’s your morning cup of coffee out on the patio or the half-hour you spend in the bath, those few minutes are precious. If you’ve had a stressful day, this time helps you unwind. If you have a lot on your mind, it is a perfect opportunity to sort and organize them. Even if it’s only 15 minutes, the break can help reduce blood pressure, improve focus, and boost productivity.
Why should your bathroom look inviting?
A bath provides the perfect reason to relax at the end of a tiring day. An inviting bathroom can help your mind to slow down and enjoy the present. Having a bath just before you go to sleep can also help people who find it difficult to sleep at night.
But no one wants to sit in a tub surrounded by clutter and chaos. How can you relax when you have no space for your bath essentials or can’t find what you need?
While a bathroom that looks and feels like a spa can be quite expensive to create, anyone can have a comfortable bathroom that invites you to unwind. A few plants, storage to corral all your accessories, and space for hanging towels and/or clothes help quite a bit. The right mirror and sink can also transform an old bathroom into a refreshing space.
Benefits of taking baths
Does it matter whether you take a shower or have a bath at the end of the day? Almost everyone agrees that a warm bath can help elevate your mood, soothe sore muscles, and help you sleep more deeply at night. However, studies suggest that taking warm baths can have medical benefits as well.
- Reduce blood pressure
Taking a warm bath can help improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure. It means you can give your heart a mini-workout and stay heart healthy without having to run a marathon.
- Minimize inflammation
Adding Epsom salts to your bath has been shown to reduce inflammation in the joints for those suffering from arthritis or other muscular diseases. It may even help those with chronic diseases like diabetes.
- Burn calories
Soaking in the tub is no match for an actual workout but sweating from a hot bath can actually burn as many calories as a short walk. Now that’s a win-win situation right there!
The most comfortable baths
While a bath can be relaxing and comforting, buying the right bathtub can be stressful. There are so many options available in terms of materials, shape, size, and features, that it’s easy to be confused. Before you jump in, here’s what you should consider before buying one.
Do you want a tub with room for two, so you can spend a romantic evening with your partner? Then you should consider a tub that can comfortably seat two (and floors that can take the extra weight!). The Calla II by Odass is a great freestanding tub that can also be mounted next to a wall. It has two seats, making it a great option for couples.
While budget is important, keep in mind that your tub has to fit in the limited bathroom space. If the bathroom is on the second floor, then the tub has to be light enough to install and the floors should be able to take the weight. The Malaga F1 3266 by Neptune weighs in at a mere 85lbs, lighter than many other models on the market.
Sometimes you just can’t beat an old-fashioned clawfoot tub. The Tournesol II by Odass features the same elegant design of antique clawfoot tubs but is made with modern materials and suits any bathroom design style. Whether you like a long soak or just want to relax at the end of the day, getting the right tub is the first step to creating the relaxing bathroom you deserve.
