Epsom salt helps both physical and mental health, according to Mary Bemis – one of the nation’s top spa and wellness journalists

People struggling with colds or feeling overwhelmed and rundown should soak in Epsom salt, says Mary Bemis, an award-winning reporter.

“It’s about living a better life, and right now, we are living in a really difficult time,” says Bemis, founder of the Insider's Guide to Spas magazine. “I don’t think enough people are taking care of themselves, and it’s time to embrace the fundamentals of spa. That includes the healing power of a good soak – add Epsom salt to your bath, and you're on the path to a healthy lifestyle that works.”

Bemis is an inaugural honoree of the “Top Women in Media” award from Folio:, a news outlet that covers the magazine industry. She’s been named a Dedicated Contributor by the International Spa Association (ISPA) for educating consumers about “healthy lifestyle choices,” and she’s also launched spa magazines aimed at both businesses and consumers. An analyst of the magazine industry hailed one of those publications, Organic Spa, as one of the most notable consumer magazines that debuted in 2007.

Bemis suggests adding 3 cups of Epsom salt – actually magnesium sulfate – to a bath and soaking for 30 minutes at least once a week. She cited studies about the benefits of magnesium that show it helps relieve aches, soothe muscles, release migraines and boost the production of serotonin, a hormone that helps our mood.

Soaking in Epsom helps people battle a cold, because it can ease pain and help you sleep, Bemis says. She also recommends soaking in Epsom salt to recover from a workout or just relax.

“Epsom salt is a simple, accessible, inexpensive product that’s especially helpful during the times we’re living in,” Bemis says. “It should be a staple in our bathroom cupboards.”

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