The ancient ritual of having a steam bath, or "hammam," has been enjoyed by generations as a means of cleansing the body. The tradition originated in Turkey and for centuries these bathhouses have been used in the East to help people relax, and purify their body and mind. However, if you can not afford to jet out to the famous hammams across the globe, then worry not. Readers can mimic this tranquil sanctuary within the comfort of their own bathrooms by following these simple steps.
Exfoliate with a mini sauna
Before you can embark on a tranquil journey of inner peace, it is important to scrub the outer body. That is why exfoliating your skin is one of the essential cleansing aspects of the hammam ritual as it helps create the perfect foundation for your treatment.
Try: Rituals’ Hammam Hot Scrub, £12.90, from UK Rituals Store.
This unique scrub contains ginger and eucalyptus which leaves your skin with a hot after feel – just like a sauna. The lovely scent also instantly relieves tiredness and lifts your mood, which is a must for any hammam experience.
And now relax
With the hustle and bustle of every day life, it is important to switch off by soaking in the bath tub with your favourite essential oils or bubble bath.
Try: Elemis’ Skin Nourishing Milk Bath, £39.90 from timetospa.
This award-winning formula contains a rich milk protein. We all know that Cleopatra loved bathing in milk, so if it was good enough for her then it is certainly good enough for us mere folk! It also contains natural plant collagen which helps feed the skin, whilst keeping it soft and supple. It can also be used neat on dry patches, the scalp and on a mother-to-be’s bump!
Pamper your hair
While pampering the body and mind, it is also important not to ignore your tresses. Although having a hair treatment is not traditionally a part of a hammam experience, you can still indulge yourself by applying a nourishing conditioner while you relax.
Try: L’Occitane’s Repairing Mask for Dry & Damaged Hair £19, from L'Occiane.
This rich cream leaves your hair strong, shiny, and smooth. It is ideal for ladies who colour, straighten and curl their hair!
Moisturise your body
After drying your body, it is important to moisturise it and smooth your skin from all the rubbing and scrubbing it has endured.
Try: The Body Shop’s Moroccan Argan & Orange Body Souffle, £9, from The Body Shop.
This luxurious body souffle is perfect for dry skin. It also leaves the body beautifully fragranced – the perfect way to end your indulgent hammam experience!
Top tip: Create the perfect hammam experience by lighting a few scented candles in the bathroom and let your mind whisk you away to a Middle-Eastern paradise where you can shut off the world and just relax…well at least for an hour or two!
Aamina Zafar - Aamina Zafar
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