After a long or hard day, being able to destress and relax is a necessity both for our mental and physical health. Some people like to pour their worries into a strenuous workout; others meditate or escape to a beloved Netflix series. When I feel overwhelmed, a long, hot bath is the most effective way to calm myself down. Whether you are looking for a new stress reliever, or you are already a lover of baths, these tips may help you run a perfect bath that suits all your personal needs.

1. Find your perfect water temperature.

I think there is an art to finding the perfect temperature for your bath. Everyone is different and can tolerate different heat levels. What feels calming to me may scald someone else. I suggest running water that is as hot as you can personally stand without being too uncomfortable. You want it to be hot enough to soothe your muscles and stay warm for an extended time.

For various reasons, I must stress that you not get the water too hot. This could dry out your skin, and it could also make you dizzy if you stay in too long. Most people think this step is obvious or self-explanatory, but it is one of the most important factors in making your bath time enjoyable and effective.

2. Create a relaxing atmosphere.

This is where a lot of the stress-relief comes in. You want to create an environment that is calm and soothing, and this will be different for every person. Dimming or turning off bright lights in your bathroom is important. I don't think anyone can really relax with harsh fluorescent lights in their face.

Next, you may want to put on some music. Some people prefer peace and quiet, but I can clear my thoughts much easier if my thoughts are distracted by music. I always set my Pandora to the Stevie Nicks channel, but just use whatever makes you happy. Just save the super lively, upbeat stuff for your morning shower.

3. Pick your products.

This is the fun stuff that turns a simple tub of water into an escape. My favorite bath products are bath bombs. There's something so satisfying about watching them fizz and roll around in the water. Lush makes amazing bath bombs in different colors and shapes, and for different skin needs or concerns.

You may want to opt for bubbles instead of a bath bomb. There are tons of non-expensive bubble baths that work and smell great. My personal favorite is actually the shower gel from Bath and Body Works. They put off a TON of bubbles. The secret to getting the most bubbles with less product is to add it directly into the running water a little at a time, rather than all at once.

In conjunction with a bath bomb or bubble bath, you can also add bath salts. You can use plain epsom salts or a scented kind. These do wonders for sore muscles, aches, and pains. I believe salts and hot water can make just about anything feel better.

You may be thinking, "I know how to take a bath, that's the simplest thing in the world." But I implore you to look at a bath as more than a way to get clean. Look at it as an opportunity to soak away everything that went wrong this week and everything that has been bothering you.

Take thirty minutes out of your night and dedicate it completely to yourself. During this time, there's no thoughts of that essay that's due or that boy who won't text you back—only pink, glittery water and your favorite playlist. Now, doesn't that sound perfect?