In this post I'm sharing tips on how to unwind AFTER a long walk.
And no, it's not with a large dram (!) see the "healthy" bit, above.*
(Although if you prefer a large dram click HERE for an earlier Daily Constitutional post on how to mix the perfect Rob Roy. How's THAT for a craven attempt to try and please everyone?)
A Detox Bath
You will need…
A couple of big cups of Epsom Salts
A spoon of baking soda
A few drops of camphor oil (no more than 10 drops)
A few drops of cedarwood oil (no more than 10 drops)
Some grated fresh ginger*
(*You can use powdered ginger if you don't have fresh, but it does tend to make much more of a gritty mess in the bath!)
Pour the Epsom Salts into the bath under the running tap, ditto the baking soda, then grate the fresh ginger into the water. Just before getting into the bath, add the oils. Make the bath as hot as you can.
The Epsom Salts - magnesium sulphate – will draw out toxins and helps muscles and nerves function properly.
The baking soda soothes windblown skin.
The camphor clears the head and the cedarwood, while also being a relaxant, soothes the aching joints.
Ooh, I'm getting all new-age-y and hippie-ish. But before I get too carried away, a couple of practicalities:
Drink a big glass of water before - and during, if poss - bathing.
This is not one for first thing in the morning, or for those about to operate heavy machinery. The effect is drowsy-making and nicely spacey. Plus, it shouldn't be rushed - take half-an-hour to soak. You will need to shower-off afterward - this is a soak, not a wash and you will have bits of ginger in your hair!
No time for bath like this? Then a simple hot towel is the thing for you… Take a clean flannel, soak it then wring it out to the extent that it is still quite moist but not sopping wet. Roll it like this…
… and pop it in the microwave for 30-40 seconds.
Tip: DON'T set the microwave to full power. And if you choose to use essential oils such as eucalyptus (which you would apply to the dry towel) then be VERY careful when pressing the towel around the eyes. My next Big Walk Wednesday photoblog post is due on the 25th January and will cover my East Finchley to Richmond walk last week. Here's a quick preview in the shape of my route…
Here are few previous Big Walk Wednesday posts for you to enjoy…Part One of East Finchley to Crystal Palace
Part Two of East Finchley to Crystal Palace Old Kent Road to Whitechapel
Cornhill to Camden Town East Finchley to South Kensington North Greenwich to Richmond Part One North Greenwich to Richmond Part Two And here are my earlier Step Count posts from the routes of my London Walks in… Hampstead
Fun Photography, Rock & Roll & Seven Dials Pub Walk Inside Covent Garden, Kensington & Jack The Ripper
Ghosts of the Old City
A London Walk costs £10 – £8 concession. To join a London Walk, simply meet your guide at the designated tube station at the appointed time. Details of all London Walks can be found at www.walks.com.
