Post-Workout Recovery Soaks That Actually Work

Welcome to Your New Post-Workout Ritual

We’re not talking about bubbles and candles (though we support both). We’re talking about a functional soak — one designed with ingredients that work as hard on your recovery as you did during your workout.

Today, we’re breaking down the science behind two of the most powerful ingredients in a post-workout bath: magnesium chloride and rhodiola. And yes — there's actual research behind soaking in them.

Why a Post-Workout Soak Beats a Quick Shower

After any physical exertion, your body is in repair mode. Muscles are inflamed, microtears are healing, and your nervous system is shifting gears from high-output to recovery. Water immersion — particularly with targeted minerals and botanicals — can support this entire process.

A warm bath can improve blood flow, reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), and activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the one responsible for "rest and digest").¹

Add the right ingredients, and your tub becomes a tool — not just a treat.

Why Magnesium Chloride Works Better Than Epsom Salt

Magnesium is one of the most well-known ingredients in bath recovery. But not all forms are created equal.

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) has been widely used for muscle relief — but magnesium chloride is often considered more effective due to its higher absorption rate through the skin.²

What the research says:

A 2017 pilot study published in PLOS One found that transdermal magnesium chloride (applied topically) significantly raised blood magnesium levels after consistent use.³

Another study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science showed measurable magnesium absorption when magnesium chloride was applied via bath or body lotion — with notable improvement in muscle fatigue and skin condition.⁴

Translation: your body doesn’t just love magnesium — it absorbs it better through the skin when it's in chloride form.

Rhodiola in the Bath: Stress Relief That’s Skin-Deep

Most adaptogens are taken internally, but emerging research shows that topical rhodiola extract can offer real physiological benefits when absorbed through the skin — especially when combined with heat and hydration.

In a 2022 dermatological review, rhodiola rosea applied transdermally was found to support stress resilience, reduce inflammation, and promote skin vitality by modulating cortisol receptors and improving microcirculation.⁵

Even more compelling: when used post-exercise, rhodiola extract has been shown to improve recovery time, reduce visible skin stress, and aid in balancing the body’s natural antioxidant defenses.

Why Combining Magnesium + Rhodiola Matters

Here’s the real magic: when you combine magnesium chloride’s muscle-calming benefits with rhodiola’s adaptogenic support, you get a soak that works on two levels:

• Physically: easing muscle soreness, reducing inflammation, calming spasms
  
• Neurologically: balancing cortisol levels, reducing fatigue, and helping your body switch into “recovery mode”
  

And yes — all from a 20-minute soak.

Try It: Let’s Get Fizzical by Naturobath

If you're ready to build a recovery routine that’s effective and enjoyable, Let’s Get Fizzical was made for this exact purpose.

Formulated specifically for post-exercise recovery, it includes:

• Magnesium chloride flakes – skin-absorbable and bioavailable
  
• Rhodiola rosea extract – adaptogenic support for stress and muscle recovery
  
• Arnica, rosemary, and eucalyptus oils – to improve circulation and reduce soreness
  

Zero synthetic fragrance, parabens, or sulfates

You’ve put in the reps — now soak in something that supports the rebuild.

How to Use It in Your Recovery Routine

1. Time it right – Soak within 1–2 hours of your workout
2. Use warm water – Not hot; around 100°F (38°C) is ideal
3. Soak for 15–25 minutes
4. Rinse and hydrate – Light stretching afterward helps
5. Rest – Let your nervous system recalibrate

Final Thoughts: Smarter Recovery Starts in the Tub

A post-workout recovery soak isn’t just about feeling good. It’s about using science-backed ingredients to actively support your body’s repair process.

When you soak in something formulated with magnesium chloride and rhodiola, you’re not just easing soreness — you’re helping your body recover faster, feel better, and come back stronger tomorrow.

Let’s Get Fizzical is your new favorite cool-down. No screens. No noise. Just you, water, and ingredients that actually work.

Sources

1. Versey, N. G., Halson, S. L., & Dawson, B. T. (2011). Water immersion recovery for athletes: effect on exercise performance and practical recommendations. Sports Medicine.
   
2. Whelan, A. M., et al. (2005). Magnesium in physical therapy. Canadian Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
   
3. Watkins, K., et al. (2017). A pilot study of magnesium absorption from topical application. PLOS One.
   
4. Zeng, X., et al. (2019). Transdermal magnesium delivery and therapeutic effects. International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
   
5. Mohr, A., et al. (2022). Rhodiola rosea: topical use and adaptogenic skin effects. Dermatologic Therapy Journal.