Unlocking Wellness: Science-backed therapeutic benefits of hot baths, by Joke Kujenya
Lots of people love to embrace the soothing comfort of a hot bath. To them, it extends beyond mere relaxation ─ it’s a scientifically supported journey towards holistic well-being.
Often, amid daily chaos of life, some find this practice reveal numerous physical and mental health benefits to their bodies, confessing it brings therapeutic warmth to their lives.
According to Katrina Eresman in her review written by Patricia Pinto-Garcia, MD, MPH, hot baths have hydrotherapy with historical significance.
Dating back to centuries, hydrotherapy’s global exploration has spotlighted hot water as a potent therapeutic ally.
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Among its varied techniques, hot baths emerge as a holistic remedy, with recent research specifying temperatures between 104- and 108.5-degrees Fahrenheit (40 to 45.2 degrees Celsius).
Eresman listed five compelling reasons for a leisurely soak;
1. Muscle and Joint Relief: Heat therapy, a hallmark of hot baths, proves effective in treating sore muscles. Improved blood circulation and relaxation of tight muscles and joints offer respite, especially for conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
2. Heart Health Support: Regular hot baths may temporary lower blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular well-being. While not a substitute for lifestyle changes, this practice hints at potential benefits for health.
3. Stress Reduction and Depression Management: The ritual of a hot bath becomes synonymous with stress relief for many. Research supports its mood-boosting effects, presenting warm baths as a promising complementary treatment for depression.
4. Improved Sleep Quality: For those grappling with sleep issues, a hot bath before bedtime proves transformative. Studies highlight enhanced sleep quality and quicker sleep initiation as notable outcomes.
5. Convenience and Alternatives: Beyond convenience, hot tubs offer an alternative with hydrotherapy benefits, potentially elevating the overall experience. However, consultation with healthcare providers on this is vital, especially for specific health conditions.
On navigating hot tubs and safety considerations, Eresman suggests as hydrotherapy alternatives, this requires careful consultations with health experts, particularly for individuals with pregnancy, heart conditions or limited mobility.
She insisted that adherence to safety practices, including pre-soak showering is crucial to mitigate potential health risks.
She said there is need for perfecting individual’s hot bath ritual by adapting to personal references which is key. The water temperature, slightly above body temperature, and soak duration can be tailored to suit the body need.
Enhancements like oatmeal, Empson salt or lavender essential oil contribute to a more indulgent experience, with lavender’s charming effects well-documented, Eresman noted.
Conclusively, Eresman noted that in essence, a hot bath transcends luxury ─ it’s a specifically validated self-care practice fostering a healthier more relaxed lifestyle.
So, from stress alleviation to enhanced sleep, the therapeutic embrace of a hot bath unveils a pathway to overall well-being, whether a nightly ritual or occasional treat, the warmth of a hot bath beckons us to unlock the doors to a holistic rejuvenation.
Joke Kujenya is a Lagos-based Journalist.
