Bathtime bliss

THERE’S no escape quite as indulgent as locking the bathroom door and stealing an hour or so away under lashings of hot water – topped with bubbles is optional but a personal preference for me.
A full tank of water is an absolute must, a full length bath is another (not that I’ve ever found this a problem given my height). Sitting in hot water with knees poking up like mini Everests hardly evokes a sense of relaxation; neither is trying to sink below the water level because the tap went cold half way through filling – you might as well pull the plug there and then.
Much of bath times in our house are spent trying to prevent most of the ever-rising bubbles spilling on to the bathroom floor while dinosaurs, ducks and a fleet of boats get sunk, thrown overboard or engaged in battle. However, the haven can be recovered by hiding all the rubber duckies and bringing out the fluffier towels and aromatic big girl goodies.
A sort of pre-bath treat can be applying a scrub and allowing a well-earned soak melt it all away to reveal super soft silky skin. One of my utmost favourite scrubs has to be Jo Malone’s and the latest offering is pretty exquisite.
The Geranium and Walnut scrub might appear to be a peculiar combination but it really works and is refreshing and floral without being overpowering. The minute fragments of walnut shell gently help remove any dead skin cells and when you eventually emerge from bubbly heaven and pat yourself dry, the smooth factor continues.
Their range of bath oils are also a wonderful gift to yourself to be guarded from the boys and the new shower oils are also bottles of loveliness that will be the perfect beginning or end to a day.
Remember not to have the bath water too hot, as rather than being a relaxing soak it can leave you too hot and bothered. It also isn’t very good for your skin.
Now all you have to do is find the time to plan your bathing escape!
• Choose your bath time partner from the Jo Malone counter at Brown Thomas, Galway.
Geranium & Walnut Body Scrub RRP  €50, Lime Basil & Mandarin Shower Oil RRP €40.