Discover the Holistic Spa Ritual of the Roman Thermae... With Winter on the scene, thoughts turn to embracing this season to slow down, rest and recharge in readiness for Spring. The Roman Thermae takes on this concept of self-care and is far from being consigned to history, being the foundation for many modern spas. What are Thermae? Thermae (the word being Greek for “heat”) were imperial bath complexes designed for bathing, relaxation and social activity. They were the heart of Roman recreational life and enjoyed by everyone. The larger complexes had other features, such as libraries, food sellers and ornate gardens. Where did the Thermae Originate? Though there are only fragments of evidence, they are known to have existed in early Egyptian palaces, and were also important to the Greeks (programmes being recorded around 2000 BC). However, the standard was developed fully by the Romans, coming into existence in 25 BC, being built by Emperor Agrippa. Beforehand, Romans bathed in the local neighbourhood Balneum, a much simpler setup. The popularity of these led to the creation of the more extravagant Thermae, becoming a pet project for many emperors. The notable ones recorded were Baths of Titus (AD 81), Baths of Domitian (AD 95), Trajan’s Baths (c.100), Baths of Caracalla (AD 217) and Thermae of Diocletian (c.302). Each emperor tried to improve upon design, grandeur and popularity. To gain this popularity, fees were low or non-existent, being subsidised by the government. This spread across the expanse of the empire, with some cultures adapting them, such as the Hammam. A famously well-preserved example is the Roman Baths in Bath, Somerset, constructed around 70AD. Today, the spring water in the pools still reach 46 degrees Celsius. The Thermae Experience The order of the rooms is not exactly known, but is thought to have had a standardised pattern. It began with the apodyterium (changing rooms) followed by anointing with oil in a designated room, known as either the elaeothesium or unctuarium. The next stage was the palaestrae, a room or space for exercise. Afterwards, the hot plunge bath, referred to as the calidaruim was visited. This was followed by the laconicum or sudatorium, which was a steam room. It was likely in here that the body was exfoliated with a curved metal implement called a strigil. Then, the idea was to progress to the tepidarium, a warm bathroom, followed by the cold pool - the frigidarium. This was larger, usually the size of a swimming pool. The bathing routine was completed with anointing with oil once more. In larger complexes, there would be massage or other health treatment rooms. This routine is somewhat familiar to us. A gym, hot tubs, steam rooms, cold plunges/ice rooms, with the option of skin treatments and massages are generally components of today’s spa set-up. Benefits of Thermae Skin Health Benefits: Calidarium (hot water): Boosts collagen production by stimulating blood flow. Opens up the pores for a deep cleanse and increased absorption of moisture. Exfoliation: Breaks up and removes dead skin cells allowing new cells to surface, brightening skin, helping it feel fresh, supple and even-toned. Unclogs pores and allows other skincare products to work at a deeper level. Frigidarium (cold water): Balances sebum levels for clearer skin. Enhances blood flow to help reduce inflammation and helps skin glow. Oil treatment: Improves skin’s elasticity, reduces fine lines, nourishes the skin and locks in moisture. General Health Benefits: Calidarium (hot water): Temporarily lowers blood pressure, supporting heart health. Soothes muscles and joints. Exfoliation: Improves circulation. Stimulates lymphatic drainage which helps remove toxins. Frigidarium (cold water): Positive effect on recovery after exercise. Speeds up metabolism and helps boost the immune system. Oil treatment: Reduces inflammation and pain, and muscle tension. Holistic Benefits: Calidariuim (hot water): Relaxation and relief from stress, helping to improve sleep quality. Exfoliation: Lifts the spirits and a mindful activity, bringing you into the present. Frigidarium (cold water): Restores balance to the nervous system and builds resiliency. Oils treatment: Particularly if infused with essential oils, it can bring emotional benefits. Calming effects reduce stress-related skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Thermae at Home Take elements of this ancient routine into the present to holistically uplift, soothe and nourish… A background fragrance is key to set up this self-care ritual. Disconnect from the day’s stresses with a burst of Winter Rest Room Mist or a subtle fragrance from our Winter Rest Reed Diffuser. Their fragrance lends a grounding edge with smoky notes of Oudh and Vetiver, while spicy Cinnamon and Clove add a cheerful ambience to get you in the zone. Start off with some movement – this one is up to you! The key here is not a punishing routine, but something that helps you to feel invigorated. Do yoga sequences appeal to you; alternatively dancing or a walk in nature? A short amount of exercise can bring you into the moment and set you up well for the next stages. The darker days tend to cause a feeling of sluggishness, so this will help boost the emotions and uplift the senses. A relaxing soak in a hot bath to unwind and soothe the muscles. Winter Rest Himalayan Bath Salts is the perfect accompaniment. These ancient crystals’ magnesium content helps relieve muscle aches and deeply cleanse, while the infused Winter Rest blend contains essential oils of Vetiver, Oudh, Clove & Spikenard that strengthen the body and benefit joints and muscles. These Salts can be ground down in a blender or pestle and mortar and have a dash of Organic Jojoba Oil (as it mimics the skin’s natural oils) to create a co-ordinating exfoliating treatment. With the skin’s pores open from the hot water, this is the optimal time to buff off the dead skin cells and help removal of toxins. A short shower off – the temperature is up to you here (cold water showering is not for everyone!) but the main thing is to ensure that the water is cooler than your bath, to help the pores close up and retain the minerals absorbed from the Salts. A deep moisturising treatment with our Body Oils. They can be used alone, with Organic Rosehip Oil being particularly beneficial for dry skin, Organic Argan Oil for combination skin and Organic Jojoba Oil for all skin types. To take it up a level for the full aromatherapy experience, Winter Rest Essential Oil is the go-to. Our Restorative Duo pairs it with Rosehip Oil as a warming and soothing ritual that works as a muscle treatment. Our Balancing Duo featuring Argan Oil, can be used as a face and body oil to help improve skin texture and tone. Add a drop of Essential Oil to 10ml of your chosen base oil for these benefits: Cedarwood Essential Oil: Soothes inflammation. Cinnamon Essential Oil: Boosts circulation for radiant skin. Clove Essential Oil: A rich source of antioxidants. Oudh Essential Oil: Helps remove bacteria from skin. Petitgrain Essential Oil: Helps minimise pores. Spikenard Essential Oil: Promotes skin health. Vetiver Essential Oil: Balances sebum. One for the Christmas wish list is our Warming Gift Collection. Featuring our Winter Rest Essential Oil blend, co-ordinating Traveller Candle & Room Mist and Organic Jojoba Oil, this makes for a soothing and pampering companion to counter the winter blues. As Winter launches us into the hectic festive season, we encourage you to step back and take a much-needed moment to rest, recharge and revitalise. You’re worth taking care of!
