Taking a shower is an essential part of our daily routine, but did you know that there are some things you can do before stepping into the shower to make the experience even more refreshing and enjoyable? In this article, we’ll share 11 essential things you should do before taking a shower to help you feel refreshed and ready to tackle your day.
1. Dry brush your skin
Dry brushing is an age-old practice that involves using a natural bristle brush to gently scrub your skin. It helps to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and improve blood circulation. As a result, dry brushing leads to a smoother and brighter skin. In addition, dry brushing can help to stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a crucial role in removing toxins from the body and strengthening the immune system.
To dry brush your skin, start at your feet and work your way up your body, using circular motions. Always brush in long and sweeping motions towards your heart to encourage lymphatic flow and circulation.
Be gentle and avoid brushing too hard, as it can cause irritation. Avoid brushing over areas of sensitive skin, such as your face. You should dry brush daily, preferably before taking a shower.
Remember to clean your brush regularly with soap and water to prevent a buildup of bacteria.
2. Drink a glass of water
Drinking a glass of water before taking a shower can help to hydrate your body and prepare you for the upcoming water exposure. It can also help to jumpstart your metabolism and increase your energy levels, leaving you feeling more refreshed and invigorated.
Read: Essential Oils for a Relaxing Bath: Create a Spa Experience
Drinking a glass of water can also help to regulate your body temperature and prevent dehydration. Dehydration can lead to headaches, dry skin, fatigue, and a rise in blood pressure. Therefore, drinking water before a shower can help improve blood pressure regulation.
One should aim for at least one glass of water before taking a shower to reap its benefits.
3. Stretch your muscles
Stretching before taking a shower can help to reduce muscle tension and stiffness. It can also help to improve your flexibility and range of motion. When you stretch, you are loosening the muscles, which can relieve pain and make you feel more relaxed.
Some simple stretches you can do before taking a shower include:
- Neck stretches: Gently tilt your head to the left and hold for a few seconds. Repeat on the right side.
- Shoulder stretches: Raise your left arm and place it behind your head. Use your right hand to gently push your elbow back. Hold for a few seconds and repeat on the other side.
- Hamstring stretches: Sit on the edge of a chair and straighten your left leg in front of you. Reach for your toes and hold for a few seconds. Repeat on the other side.
You will need a comfortable yoga mat to make it easy to stretch on hard floors. You should also wear comfortable clothing, such as yoga pants and a loose t-shirt, to allow you to move freely.
Usually, it is advisable to hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds and repeat 2-3 times on each side. As you stretch, you should breath slowly and deeply to help relieve tension and relax your muscles. You should also do jumping jacks or jog a bit before starting your stretching routine to warm up your body and muscles.
4. Meditate or practice deep breathing
Taking a few minutes to meditate or practice deep breathing before a shower can help to calm your mind and reduce stress and anxiety. Meditation can help you to focus on the present moment and clear your mind of negative thoughts. Deep breathing can help to slow down your heart rate, relax your muscles, and improve your mood.
To meditate or practice deep breathing, find a quiet space, sit comfortably, and close your eyes. Take deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth. Focus on your breath and try to clear your mind. You can also use this time to visualize positive outcomes for the day ahead.
You should begin with shorter meditation sessions lasting 5-10 minutes. Once you become better at it, you can extend the duration of these sessions. You may also use guided meditation apps to help you stayed relaxed and focused.
5. Use a facial scrub or silicone facial cleansing scrubber
Using a gentle facial scrub before taking a shower can help to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and leave your skin looking and feeling smoother and brighter. Try a DIY scrub using ingredients such as sugar, honey, and coconut oil, or look for a store-bought option with natural ingredients.
If you want a more gentler option, you can use a silicon face cleansing scrubber to exfoliate the skin and remove oil and dirt. Silicon face cleansing scrubbers are good for sensitive skin and are not as abrasive as a facial scrub.
The soft bristles allow you to care for your skin more gently without irritating it. A silicon face scrubber is far more hygienic because you can sterilize or clean it.
6. Apply a hair mask
Applying a hair mask before taking a shower can help to nourish and strengthen your hair. It can also help to reduce frizz and improve the texture and shine of your hair. You can use a store-bought hair mask or make your own using natural ingredients like avocado, honey, or coconut oil.
If you choose to use a store-bought hair mask, look for one with ingredients such as coconut oil, argan oil, or shea butter for maximum hydration and nourishment.
7. Use a facial steamer
Using a facial steamer before taking a shower can help to open up your pores and prepare your skin for cleansing. It can also help to hydrate and rejuvenate your skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. You can use a store-bought facial steamer or make your own by filling a bowl with hot water and holding your face over it.
Before steaming, you should clean your face to remove makeup or dirt and then pat it dry. Using distilled water is advised because tap water may contain impurities.
You should stay 8-10 inches away from the facial steamer and steam your face for about 5-10 minutes to reduce the risk of overheating your skin. Once you finishing steaming your face, you apply moisture to lock in hydration and reduce moisture loss.
8. Listen to music or a podcast
Listening to music or a podcast before taking a shower can help to put you in a positive mindset and reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help to make your shower experience more enjoyable and relaxing. Choose music or a podcast that makes you feel happy and uplifted.
Ambient or classic music is a good choice and can help you relax. Nature sounds may also have a soothing effect and can create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
9. Practice gratitude
Taking a few minutes to practice gratitude before taking a shower can help to shift your focus to the positive things in your life. It can also help to improve your mood and reduce stress and anxiety. To practice gratitude, simply think about the things you are thankful for, such as your health, family, or a recent accomplishment.
You should take deep breaths as you reflect on things you are grateful for and say thank you out loud to reinforce your gratitude and create a positive mindset.
10. Use a shower stool
Using a shower stool can help to reduce strain on your legs and back, and promote a more relaxing and enjoyable shower experience. It can also make it easier to shave or exfoliate hard-to-reach areas.
Using a shower stool can help to reduce strain on your legs and back, and promote a more relaxing and enjoyable shower experience. It can also make it easier to shave or exfoliate hard-to-reach areas.
Always make sure you place your shower stool at a convenient height and position to make your shower experience more fulfilling. A plastic or metallic shower stool gives you good service for much longer. You should also ensure the shower stool has non-slip rubber feet, wide base, and an anti-slip platform.
11. End with a cool rinse
End your shower with a cool rinse to help close your pores, improve circulation, and leave you feeling more alert and invigorated. Consider using a showerhead with adjustable settings to make it easier to switch between warm and cool water.
Bottom line
Incorporating these 11 essential things into your pre-shower routine can help to enhance your shower experience and leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on your day. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress and tension, improve your skin and hair health, or simply enjoy a more relaxing shower, these tips can help you get the most out of your daily routine.
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