"The journey of the day was long and my body needed to bathe. I dreamt of a private, special place where I could squat and eliminate the unnecessary elements from my being offering them back to the earth for replenishment in the cycle of life. I longed for a space with a warm, secret pool and waterfall to bathe my tired body. A place with a stone shelf nearby holding the natural flowers, roots and oils I would use to cleanse my body, hair and soul. Then, I imagined the music of happy birds being carried by the light wind to my ears as I gazed into large reflection ponds seeing my new face lit by the light of the golden sun and God’s grace. As I stepped from the pool, I felt the warm soft absorbent cloth that was hanging from a nearby tree being wrapped around my body — my feet felt secure and grounded on the earth. In balance and refreshed, I moved the branches aside ready to face the world again!"

If I had my choice I would put toilets and bidets in separate rooms off the "bath" room, for I see two completely separate functions here. Elimination is a normal healthy body function where we purify ourselves, yet why do we have to have it in our face while we bathe? The toilet is quite a downward energy drain that when seen from tubs or the hallways of our home can on a subtle level pull us down energetically. I advise you to put a small screen in front of the toilet if there is space to screen it off from view. At least keep your door to the bathroom closed, especially if you sleep in a room with the bathroom in view from your bed. A fun solution to the downward energy pull of the toilet is to place an object on the toilet tank that represents explosive energy such as a jar of unpopped popcorn or an unopened bottle of champagne.

I see showers, bathtubs and hot tubs as places for meditation, nurturing and wonderful sensuality — as well as cleansing. (This may be because I am more of a water personality). It is nice to sit in the tub and feel the water cascading down upon you from the shower heads. Also, there is nothing better than being bathed and lovingly sponged by a loved one — either a mother bathing a child or lovers bathing each other. There are so many wonderful tubs and shower stalls to choose from. Pick colors that reflect a soothing scene for you and sizes that fit your body (bodies) and budget. If you are feeling angry or fiery, a good choice is to take a shower or bath for water puts out fire — bathing will calm you down! A real luxury, though not unaffordable is to have a hot tub outside in your garden where you can relax and watch the “movie of the sky” in all seasons alone or with friends.

Mirrors can be your reflection ponds, where you see your self! However, be mindful of what else the mirror is reflecting — is it the toilet? is it the dirty laundry? is it the moldy wallpaper?

Ventilation is important in a bath room. The best choice would be an old fashioned window that can be opened to let the fresh air in. Many ventilation fans are so assaulting to the senses making such a racket that you could never relax feeling that perhaps you too will be sucked up into the vast unknown of the venting system.

Sinks are sweet areas where we can smile as we brush our teeth, wash our hands and shave. Free standing sinks are very pretty yet don’t allow space around them for the tools of the trade, i.e. toothbrush, cups, shaving stuff, soap, washcloth and makeup. Beauty is important but function is even more important from a design perspective. Combining beauty and function is the quest. (Although the Shakers may not agree with me.)

Bath rooms can become your private getaway and nourishing spa. They are rooms to bathe and refresh your soul. Allow the flow of the water’s cleansing properties to wash over you. Elimination purifies. Surround your self with natural sponges, candles, scented oils, sea salts and special goblets for wine or pure water. I invite you to create sensual bath roooms and enjoy the art of bathing for your self and your loved ones.