The beginning of each year provides an opportunity to assess where we are at and either affirm or reset and redirect our path. However, a year can feel like a long time, so after we’ve set our intentions for the year, let’s give ourselves grace by starting each day anew. Daily habits build weekly habits, allowing us to achieve our monthly, quarterly, yearly, and ultimately lifelong goals.
This past summer, we renovated the two bathrooms in our 1909 Victorian home. We have lived in this home for 12 years. During that time, our family shared many frustrating mornings of multiple family members sharing the same sink simultaneously, fighting for time in the shower or in front of the mirror. When we decided that it was time to renovate the bathrooms, I wanted to honor the home’s history while considering our family’s current and future needs. Back when our home was built, showers were not being used, and indoor plumbing was a luxury, so baths were less frequent, long soaks were designed for the pure function of physical hygiene. Learning about bathing throughout history and across cultures is fascinating. All of this knowledge led me to consider the individual members of our family and what might be beneficial to their cleansing needs.
As designers, evaluating the bathing experience as a combination of both physical and mental hygiene allows us to approach the bathroom design from multiple angles and ensure that the design will be successful. To clarify, my definition of a successful bathroom design is one that supports and enhances an individual's daily life.
"Hygiene" is defined as "conditions or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness."
"Clean" is defined as "1.) free from dirt, marks, or stains. 2.) morally uncontaminated; pure; innocent."
Physical hygiene is what we typically think of when we consider bathing rituals. Common practices of physical hygiene include things like; using the toilet, washing your hands, washing your feet, washing your face, washing your hair, clipping your nails, showering, soaking, personal grooming, styling your hair, and makeup application. It is our job as designers to provide a functional layout to perform these daily rituals.
Often overlooked, but just as important as physical, mental hygiene must be thoughtfully considered in bathroom design. Common mental hygiene practices can include any of the above personal hygiene practices performed intentionally in a nurturing environment. It is here that we combine the form and function of the bathroom. What ancient civilizations knew regarding the mind and body is what researchers are now proving through science to be true. We need intense periods of strenuous physical and mental effort followed by rest and respite.
Intense periods of strenuous physical activity are typically not elements of a bathroom but could be incorporated in the form of a sauna or steam shower followed by a cold plunge tub.
To reap the benefits of intense mental and physical activity outside or inside of the bathroom, we need to balance those with periods of rest and respite. This is when our body and mind truly grow stronger.
Neuroscience is discovering the immense benefits of biophilia in reducing stress levels and promoting an individual’s well-being. Biophilia is achieved when we create a connection to nature by engaging the five senses. A window with a direct view of nature is a great place to start. Incorporating natural elements like wood and stone into areas that come in contact with the skin will give you a connection to nature. Using surfaces that repeat the patterns and textures of nature will connect your subconscious with memories of nature. In-floor heated stone floors with veining like the surface of the earth feel as though they’ve been naturally warmed from the sun. A shower that uses adjustable patterns that mimic light rainfall or standing under a waterfall engage the scene of touch and sound. When a window can’t be opened to hear nature, integrated speakers can replicate any forest in the world. Chroma therapy, or dimmable and color temperature lighting controls that evoke a sunrise or sunset reset your circadian rhythm. Aromatherapy using essential oils, shower steamers, a candle, or a bundle of eucalyptus evoke positive memories and enhance relaxation. Each of these techniques provide an environment to shut off, disconnect, and unwind. If you desire to be more spiritual, this is the perfect time to go inward and meditate or pray, reflect on how far you’ve come and where you are going. Pull in positive energy through the clean, fresh water, and release any negative emotions down the drain.
Some mornings include washing my face; others include a long hot shower, and weekly, I set aside enough time for a long soak in the tub. Whatever time you have, give yourself this opportunity to cleanse your body and soul, reset your intentions, and start each day anew.
Whatever your goals may be, cheers to your success in 2025!
To explore more, here's a quick article highlighting 6 Bath Rituals From Around the World.
