For centuries, many doctors have been interested in the healing properties of body immersion in hot or cold water. Today, we often find ourselves too busy to take long relaxing baths. We wanted to share some of the benefits of taking a bath. As Self-care continues to be hot news, try and find the time to relax in your tub…
Taking a Bath: Healthy
Taking a bath is a healthy habit as it not only improves your gastrointestinal health but it also takes care of your blood and immunity system. When in contact with warm water the heart starts to beat significantly faster, allowing for better blood circulation in the body. For healthy people, hot baths can lower heart pressure and improve heart function. A bath can almost be as good as a workout, as Dr. Steve Faulkner, an exercise physiologist at Nottingham Trent University says, “When you take a hot bath, you see several physiological responses that are very similar to what you see in exercise”.
Be Mindful
Taking a bath helps people to breathe easily because when the water is hot and your heart beats quickly, your oxygen supply increases and the water vapour clears out your sinuses and lungs at the same time. To take advantage of this benefit, make sure to not have too hot of water — 27°C appears to be a good temperature to influence the lymphatic system. For deeper relaxation, try adding essential oils, flowers or mineral salt.
One of the latest wellness trends is to use EPSOM salt, also known as magnesium sulphate. It is a powerful mineral composed of magnesium, sulphur and oxygen that relieves sore feet, soothes muscle pain and reduces stress. Moreover, if you are looking to destress while bathing, it is best to dim overhead lights or light candles in the bathroom. You can also listen to soft music to create the perfect relaxing spa-at-home setting in your bathroom.
Be Efficient
In addition to all the other benefits, you can use your time in the bathroom to indulge in other self-care activities. Why not read, exfoliate your body with a sugar scrub, apply a facial mask or put cucumber slices on your eyes to soothe and de-puff eyelids? It’s the perfect opportunity to nourish your hair and scalp by applying a mask and massaging into your scalp to stimulate circulation.
Drink an herbal tea while taking a bath. For a full-body relaxing experience, try enjoying a cup of herbal tea whilst soaking. Good for both your mind and your body, the bathing benefits are endless so get that water running…
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