Outside in all weathers, we London Walks guides know a thing or two about battling the cold weather.
In this short series we're sharing our winter weather tips with our lovely London Walkers, a hardy bunch who join us rain or sleet in the winter months.
In this post I'm sharing tips on how to unwind AFTER a winter 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.
More Winter Tips from The Daily Constitutional… Adam's Patented Cough Tincture Kim & Steve Get Layered Up
Steph & Laurence Hit The Drugs
A Good Waterproof Bag
Want to share a winter weather tip or cold remedy? Drop me a line at the usual address.
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.
