The Ultimate Girly Indulgence

Of the many girly cliches, my absolute favorite would have to be the chick-flick bath. You know, the baths that women in movies take... glass of wine, tons of bubbles, candles everywhere. The kind of bath that makes you ask, "who does that?" Well, I do. And you should.

There is something about the chick-flick bath that is so over-the-top cheesy that you can't help but to love it. It is just such a girly treat that is 100% self-indulgent. Because it is so fancy and requires some preparation, the chick-flick bath is only a once in a while kind of luxury, but so worth it.

Once the dogs have been walked, or the kids are in bed, tell your hubby/boyfriend/cat that you are going to take a bath and don't want to be disturbed for at least a half hour. Feel free to ask for more time if you can get away with it. And don't say you don't have time! You can catch up on your DVR'd episodes of "Paris Hilton's My New BFF" later.

Now, once you've made your escape from reality, you'll need to set the scene for your ultimate relaxation. Gather up some votive candles, a glass of wine or, if you've got it, pop open that bottle of champagne that's been sitting in your refrigerator since New Year's Eve. Even a glass of ice water with lemon will work. Fill up the tub with water as hot as you can stand (you'll be in there a while, it'll cool off) and add in your bubble bath. Feel free to break open that beautiful bottle someone gave you as a gift or, in a pinch, use your kid's bubble bath. Set the candles up all around the room, including on the ledges of the tub. Grab a CD player or your i-pod or even your alarm clock radio (just make sure you turn it around so you can't see the time) and turn on some Sade or Enya or Kenny G or whatever else helps you relax. Turn off the lights and melt into your hot, bubbly tub.

The only thing to do now is to lay back and relax. If you want to shave your legs or pumice your feet, feel free. But, the only requirement in the chick-flick bath is to soak and unwind. Sip your wine/beverage of choice, listen to your music, and just let it all go. I usually soak until I get pruny or my drink runs out, but you should stay as long as you're enjoying yourself.

I don't know if I have many male readers but, if you're out there reading this, this is a great way for men to score points with their lady. Guys, why not offer to do the dishes while your wife/girlfriend goes to take a bath? Bonus points if you get the candles and the wine ready for her... maybe even buy her some new bubble bath! Come on, that's not much effort to make her feel very special and loved! Plus, it is a pretty inexpensive gift to give!

Ladies, once you've had enough of your bath, try to extend the relaxed feeling while you ready yourself for your entrance back into the real world. Wrap your self in a big towel or robe, lay down on your bed or couch (anywhere that's quiet) and just cool/dry off. For an extra special treat, before you get into the bath, throw a damp washcloth in the refrigerator and then lay it on your face after you've gotten out of the tub. It's very refreshing. Slather your thickest, richest lotion all over and get into your pajamas. But not your normal over sized t-shirt and holey sweat pants. Put on a cute pair of pajamas for a change! Then, look in the mirror, notice your rosy cheeks and your relaxed glow, and smile at yourself. Feels good doesn't it?

I hope that you'll all find time to squeeze in a couple of chick-flick baths throughout the year. It is a very practical way to relax and feel good about yourself. It may not be much but, believe me, it's worth every second.