Hit by Winter blues, heartbroken or frustrated by office politics? There’s only one place to go: The loo. Turn it into your oasis of soul-satisfying pampering, says Ruchira Bose

IMAGINE yourself floating in a warm, aromatic cup of tea, breathing in the essences of healing herbs and letting them wash over your skin. Your bathtub can easily be transformed into a giant teacup and your bathroom can be transformed into an oasis of relaxation — a place you go for healing, retreat and rest. Make it your private place that takes you away from the hectic side of your life. It can be magical if you lend it the power to transform and make you whole again.

Bath-o-holic
A bath not only relaxes you, but also serves the basic function of cleansing you. So adopting a bath-time regimen that includes cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising, that keeps your skin healthy and allows much-needed downtime in an otherwise stressful life.

A soothing soak is pure pleasure. It is a gentle way to start the day or a sumptuous send-off before going to bed. And while a steamy bath feels soothing, be sure the water is not too hot, or you‘ll find yourself feeling tired and depleted afterwards.

It‘s best to start with a warm bath and gradually add hot water as your body adjusts to the heat. When your bath water starts to cool down, you'll want your environment to be warm and cozy, so be sure to prevent your bathroom from being draughty.

Make sure your bath time is a time of solitude — no interruptions allowed! The bathroom becomes your personal property for at least the next 30 minutes. Put down your to-do lists and let yourself luxuriate in this watery retreat. And put a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign out.