You probably know that Epsom salt is Magnesium Sulphate. But why should we add it to our bath? If you absorb magnesium through your skin, it's a fast, gentle and effective way to increase your magnesium levels. Not everyone likes (or remembers!) to take tablets or supplements, and too much magnesium taken internally can have undesired effects on your digestive system.

SO: Why would you want to increase your magnesium levels?

Magnesium is a common co-factor in hundreds of important physiological actions in your body, for example it's involved in muscle regeneration, and regulates melatonin that is necessary for healthy sleep patterns.

Athletes and sportspeople lose a great deal of magnesium through sweat and increased metabolism, and are more vulnerable to cramps, aches, fatigue, and lower mood because of this. The more active you are, the more magnesium you need to keep your muscles in a relaxed state so they are less likely to suffer injury. Dr Seeling, world-recognised magnesium specialist, recommends athletes in training get at least 6-10mg of magnesium per kg of bodyweight per day. So for someone who is 70kg, this would be a minimum of 420mg

If you have too much calcium and too little magnesium, as many of us do, you’re also more likely to get cramps and lactic acid build up.

The mental stress of competing also hoovers up your magnesium levels. Conversely, the higher your mag levels, the less you are affected by stress, nerves etc.

The act of relaxing in a warm bath is also great for soothing an anxious and busy mind, and offers a quiet time for the reflection and visualisation that are an important part of sports performance.

Our recommended bath soak for athletes and sportspeople (though you don't have to be either!) is SO: Active that has a blend of 5 essential oils to aid rest and recovery.