One of my favorite indulgences is a hot bath. Fortified by a 20-minute soak, I am a better mother and a more clear-headed writer and editor. For me, a ski day isn’t complete until I take a bath. Ditto hunting for morels, hiking and brisk swims in Lake Michigan. But the bath thing goes even further with me. From my spot in the tub, I’ve conducted phone interviews (and no, the person on the other end never knew–at least that’s what I convinced myself), felt closer to God and solved big life problems.

Needless to say, I happily immerse myself in home spa research. In the past I’ve discovered steam baths, Japanese soaking tubs and chromotherapy for the bathtub. I’ve checked out enamel tubs, cedar tubs, stainless steel tubs, new old-fashioned claw-foots and minimalist modern vessels that are serenity incarnate.

I think you’ll agree that a lovely cross-country ski along Sleeping Bear Dunes, a day digging in your Northern Michigan garden, your evening commute home or  an issue of Northern Home & Cottage begs you to set aside a little downtime to relax and dream. And if that happens to land you in hot water, it’s okay to get our magazines a little damp.

Other articles to inspire a hot soak:

Drawing The Cottage Bath

Recipe: Milk & Honey Bath

Creating a Northern Michigan Home Spa

Bathed in Serenity–Six Ideas for Creating a Home Spa

Post-Slope Spa Treatments