Warm bath

Lots of people find taking a warm bath is something that allows them to relax and take a break from the ‘outside world’ for a bit. Why not try buying a bath bomb or putting a few drops of essentials oils in it to go the extra mile. Others also enjoy playing some music, an audiobook or relaxing sounds while they take their bath. Just remember not to have any technology close to the water.

I never really want to take a bath at first but, when I come out of it, I feel so much calmer and able to breathe easier…it feels really healing

To learn how to make your own Bath Bombs to really enjoy your warm bath, click on the image below to follow a simple Blue Peter recipe:

 

What young people have told us:

'It provides time away from responsibilities and obligations. It also gives you time alone. Further to this it makes you feel refreshed.'

'Yes, it really helped. Especially in the evening before bed. I think it's more difficult to fit in a bath during the day and it's not as effective.'

'Just focus on yourself before focusing on someone else.' 

'I think this helps your emotions because all your bones are relaxing in nice warm baths you are warm and laying down you will feel really relax and good it makes you very tired.'

'I find taking a warm bath really refreshing and calming.'

'It helps because it makes you warm and tired and you also relax your muscles joints and bones it get all your stress out of your body.'

There isn’t much academic research in the area of self-care for young people who are living with mental health issues. We are trying to find out more about what works for different people so we can better advise other young people what to try.

If you’ve tried this activity when you were struggling in relation to your mental health, please email us at comms.requests@annafreud.org and let us know if it helped you.