Erotic Bath

An erotic bath uses a combination of scent, sight and touch to relax, stimulate and satisfy both you and your partner. Sex counselor Suzie Hayman explains how to get the best from taking a bath together.

Preparation

You'll need:

• candles
• bath oils, gels and scented soaps
• large, warm, fluffy towels
• loofahs, flannels, sponges
• ice cubes

Set the scene

Get in the mood by packing every safe and available surface in your bathroom with candles, then turn the lights out.

Scents and oils

Fill your bath with hot water, and add a generous amount of bath oil or gel for that touch of luxury. You could also use incense or burn essential oils in a purpose-made burner.

Sexy scents:

• jasmine
• rose
• orange blossom
• sandalwood
• ylang-ylang

Herbal mixtures

Most of these come in sachets or as tea bags so just throw a few of your chosen ones into your bath.These herbs are said to be stimulating:

• lavender
• lemon
• verbena
• rosemary
• sage
• thyme

These are said to be relaxing:

• chamomile
• jasmine
• lime flowers
• vervain

Dissolve stress Listen to the sound of lapping water, watch the flicker of candlelight and revel in the soothing sensation of oils and foam.

When you're fully relaxed, use a brush or a loofah and plenty of shower gel or soap to work up a lather. Scrub each other all over and add a blast of cold water or rub an ice cube on sensitive spots to get your skin tingling.

Follow with soft flannels and sponges to soothe and smooth. The key throughout is contrast: use scratchy back brushes followed by smooth oils, and have ice cubes on hand to stimulate your heated bodies.

Finish by wrapping each other in large, warm towels.

Related Information:

• How to make an aphrodisiac meal
• Blind tasting