One of the easiest, least expensive ways to beat stress is a relaxing shower or bath. Close the bathroom door, turn on the hot water, add some high-quality natural bath products, and you can exit the steamy cave 15 minutes later feeling like a new person. That's probably why bath products are such popular gifts every Christmas; we want our loved ones to enjoy bathing, and help them rejuvenate.

Most of us won't spend on bath products for ourselves, but we all crave the simplicity of a good bath, so consider giving a high-quality, natural bath gift to your favorite stress-ball this Winter. Here are some favorites of mine that work beautifully.

Why go for natural and organic products? The skin is the body's largest organ, and even though it serves as a protective barrier to some things, it also absorbs what we put on it. As my friend Jane Webb, who runs the healthy hair salon Grace Heaven in New York City's East Village says:

"The body is a sponge. A good motto is: Don't put anything on your skin that you wouldn't eat. Make a practice of reading those labels."

Farfalla Frangipani Shower Cream
Even if your giftee only has a few minutes to spend in the shower, they can still be restorative, and the frangipani in this cream is dreamy. "Farfalla raw materials and process are all certified natural by the BDIH of Germany and meet their strict guidelines. Over 70% of the raw ingredients are grown organically, according to the Demeter method, which is the oldest method of sustainable agriculture. They contain no petrochemicals, paraffin, parabens, silicone, no synthetic fragrances or colors, no ethoxylated ingredients, no GMOs and only preservatives found in nature." Available at Beautorium for $10.

 
Deep Steep Natural Bath Tea: Grapefruit+Bergamot This reusable (or recyclable tin) Contains large individual bath tea bags that contain a beautiful infusion of botanical extracts, essential oils and mineral salts, each selected for their healing & therapeutic qualities. 100% Natural and Organic Ingredients. Comes in Honeydew and Spearmint infusion too. Available at Futurenatural for $18.00.

Rain Africa Savannah Bath Salts and Basket
Just sea salt and natural, organic (and local to Africa) essential oils, "Rain products are handmade by villagers in South Africa using environmentally-friendly practices, local ingredients and providing vital and ethical employment for the community." On sale at Beautorium for $17.

Korres Guava Showergel
Korres big shower gel is sure to last awhile and are 90% natural and free of PPGs, MEA, DEA, TEA, formaldehyde donors, ethanolomine, mineral oils, silicone, and propylene glycol. Clementine, Basil Lemon and Jasmine varieties are all made with natural anti-aging skin ingredients. Available at Sephora for $19.50.

Farmaesthetics Vapor Bath Elixir This super green, vibrant blend of potent herbs, chlorophyll and warming essential oils will purify and decongest. The fragrant preparation helps to cleanse the system, relieve congestion and unlock tension. Chloropyll is the active substance in all living, organic matter, and is loaded with skin enriching goodness. 100% Natural and Organic Ingredients. Available at Futurenatural for $31.00

Are you a DIY, create-your-own kind of gift giver? If so, here's some great recipes and suggestions for making your own shower scrubs and potions.