From the Ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians through to present time; there is scientific evidence that bathing in hot water has many natural health benefits. But were you aware of just how many benefits a relaxing, warm bath can provide you?
Here are just five ways that mindful bathing can aid in your health and wellbeing. However, don’t make the water too hot – you want to relax and heal, not scold yourself!
Helps you to fall asleep easier and reduces stress
After a soothing warm bath, your body temperature will cool and slow down your brain activity making it easier for you to slip under the bedcovers and drift off to sleep. As a result, you will feel more relaxed as the warm water has provided you with a massaging sensation draining away the day’s stressors.
Helps to fight cold and flu symptoms
The steam from the hot water creates a heat to open up your nasal passages allowing the release of congestion and decreasing inflammation. It works to clean out your sinuses and chest area making it easier for you to breathe. This is a good tip to remember at the start of flu season and you can use small tub of water and a towel over your head for a heat treatment even outside of bath time.
Improves blood circulation and lowers blood pressure
Gently lathering and scrubbing the body during bathing is great to improve circulation and getting the blood moving. This is because the hot water helps the arteries and veins expand to create space for blood flow. Additionally, a relaxing bath – even for 10 or 15 minutes – works wonders in dilating your blood vessels decreasing blood pressure
Relieve skin conditions and soothes muscles pain
While Epsom and sea salts mixed into your bath are great for soothing tired and aching muscles, baking soda works as a natural antiseptic for itchy skin and other mild skin conditions.
Naturally detoxify and cleanse
Of course, bathing still holds its original purpose to keep you clean. However, it has the additional function of a natural detox. The steam from the warm water works to open your pores as you sweat out harmful toxins. As a result, your skin will look healthier – naturally.
Note- you will have dehydrated during your hot bath, so be sure to rehydrate with water to restore those lost fluids to your body. Also, be sure to add your moisturiser routine to ensure your skin’s fluids are restored.