Physical Health Benefits of Bathing

There are ways that bathing can help your mental health (view previous blog post) but now let's talk about why taking baths can also help you physically. 

1. Boost circulation. Hydrotherapy increases blood flow and may strengthen your immune system. To try it at home, splash yourself with cold water while sitting in a warm tub.
   
2. Pamper your feet. If you’re short on time or conserving water, you can still get your feet wet. Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of peppermint oil.
   
3. Soothe your skin. Experiment with bath products and natural ingredients known to stop itching, treat sunburn, or moisturize your skin. If you sat too long in the sun, dip into cool water with two cups of vinegar. Try cornstarch or milk for dry skin.
   
   
4. Reduce congestion. Steam is a natural antidote for congestion when you have allergies or a cold. If breathing in a steamy bathroom isn’t enough, wrap a towel around your head and lower it over a bowl of hot water to help break up and loosen mucus. Eucalyptus oil or mustard powder can help the process too.
   
5. Lower a fever. If you’re running a fever, you may be able to cool off with a sponge bath. Use warm water because cold water or alcohol can make your temperature drop too quickly.
   
6. Banish body aches. Did you overdo it at the gym? Add a cup or two of Epsom salts to your bathwater to shrink inflamed tissues and relieve soreness.
   
   
7. Give birth. What if you’re expecting? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says that birthing pools might have some benefits during the first stage of labor. Advocates claim warm water can reduce pain and accelerate labor.
   

Enhance your overall wellbeing while you clean up. Hop into the tub to enjoy some refreshment and healing.