Why Epsom Salt Baths?
Besides the fact that it feels really good to just chill out in a hot bath for 45 minutes (who does that anymore?) I love taking epsom salt baths the day after a long run, hard race, or marathon. Why?
According to Livestrong.com:
One old home remedy that works is an Epsom salt soak for sore muscles. The scientific name for Epsom salts is magnesium sulfate. When you soak sore muscles in Epsom salts, your body absorbs the magnesium and the sulfates through your skin. According to epsomsaltcouncil.org, research supports that an increase in your body’s magnesium levels can improve circulation, ease muscle pain, flush toxins and heavy metals from cells, improve nerve function and relieve stress. Your skin also readily absorbs sulfates through an Epsom salt soak. Sulfates play a role in forming joint proteins and help detoxify your body.
I buy my epsom salts at the pharmacy and put no less than 2 lbs. in warm-hot bath water. With a laptop propped on the edge of the tub, (live dangerously, why not?) cue up some shows on Hulu.com, have a cup of ginger tea nearby and you’re on your way to post-marathon bliss!
