As a child, my father and I would take road-trips from Minneapolis to Montana, where he grew up on a country ranch to visit friends and family. In preparation for these travels, he would announce the hotels with availability and I would in turn ask “does it have a pool?”. Every time.
The motel pool at the Best Western in Miles City was where my sensitive-self found sanctuary. Floating, fully supported by water and gravity, I would stare at the wood planked ceiling taking in the amber-rich stained pine for as long as the parental-powers that be would allow. Letting sound, movement and thoughts lighten and become faint. Sometimes counting the wooden planks on the ceiling, which brought added relaxation. Finally emerging onto the Springtime-green-grass colored astroturf renewed and balanced. Soothed and ready to hit the hay…or a day full of activities.
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Sometimes travels have a pool and sometimes not. Over time, I’ve found ways of finding that nurturance at home or on the road through aromas and hydrotherapy. Wherever the path may lead, these are great things to have:
– BYOB…bring your own bath salt. A simple and easy way to make any tub into a mini-spa. Pre-mix dead sea salts or epsom salts with a paired aroma to a desired experience. Lavender for calming, balsam fir for warming and grounding, etc. There are many fantastic store-bought options as well, a little goes a long way with high quality. For sensitive folks, sometimes the salt with a little almond oil is perfectly soothing.
– Coconut Oil. Bring a small jar with you for versatility – on the body post-bath for sealing in hydration, as a facial cleanser and make-up remover, internal supplement to give your brain and cells a boost or for oral pulling in place of mouthwash. Coconut oil brings a tropical feel anywhere.
– Eye pillow. Give your eyes a break while you soak for sensory system relief. If you have one, grab an eye pillow for the toiletry bag or use a small folded washcloth. Just breathe – equal and steady inhales and exhales.
Roots Elemental - a wellness edit 