Many Americans will travel for the holidays, and that often means traffic jams, airport delays and kids who can't stop asking if you're there yet. Want to unwind so you don’t feel fried before the turkey gets cooked? Try a quick Epsom salt bath when you reach your destination.

Soaking in Epsom salt—actually magnesium sulfate—is an inexpensive way to help ease tired, achy bodies so you can revive and enjoy the visit with family and friends. And you can find some for just a few dollars in local pharmacies or supermarkets, no matter where your travels take you.

Excess adrenaline and stress are known to drain the body of magnesium, which is the main component of Epsom Salt. The body requires magnesium to bind adequate amounts of serotonin, a mood-elevating chemical within the brain that creates a feeling of well being and relaxation. Restoring magnesium levels also reduces anxiety, relieves muscle aches and improves sleep – which can be key when you’re travelling and not sleeping in your own bed. Best of all, magnesium is easily absorbed through the skin, which means reducing stress and improving health is as easy as relaxing in the tub.

Here’s an idea for “bathtime bliss” that takes just 12 minutes:

• Add two cups of Epsom Salt to the water in a standard-sized bathtub (double the Epsom Salt for an oversized garden tub).
• To heighten your senses and relax in more of a “spa-like” atmosphere, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil for a refreshing scent.

Note: For human use, the Epsom Salt Council recommends only Epsom salt with the USP designation.