Julia Roberts epitomises the ultimate bath-time experience in Pretty Woman by submersing herself in bubbles and singing tunelessly to Prince, an experience that looks as fun as it must have been to act.

Here in the Stylist office, we all have our own formulas on what makes a really great soak. Some go ga-ga over posh smellies such as Jo Malone and Molton Brown. For others, it's all in the bath design; it needs to be big, deep and preferably standalone with clawed feet. Still more prefer indulgent accessories, whether that's candles, a chilled glass of wine, catch-up TV watching or even a cheeky cigarette.

Whatever added extras you go for, there's no denying the cathartic, problem-solving value of a good, long bath. Turn your phone off, grab your (big, fluffy, white) towel and let the wallow work its magic.

Hot chocolate, hot chocolate

The pick-me-ups and simple pleasures guaranteed to brighten your mood