Whilst the pressure of modern life means many of us run in and out of the shower, one of life’s little luxuries still has to be taking a bath.
The simple bath has a long and detailed history and for centuries we have been getting in the tub to relax.
Let’s face it, there is nothing quite a soak in the tub to make you stop in your tracks and take time out from a busy schedule.
“After a hard day at work, I love a cup of mint tea and a soak on the bath’
Karen
“There is something really special about getting in the bath before bedtime and feeling the stress of the day float away.”
Claire
“I have a shower in the morning as it is quick, but a bath at 9pm is my way to really unwind and forget my worries.”
Gabby
The great news is that whilst taking a bath is relaxing, it is good for your health too.
Did you know that a hot bath can help improve your circulation? Hot water creates a physical pressure on the body and in return increases the capacity of our hearts. In other words, when we are submerged in a hot bath, your heart tends to work faster and stronger so a dip a couple of times a week can be of great benefit.
A raised body temperature can also help improve lymph circulation, act as a detoxification, increase metabolism and calm the nervous system with the result being a healthier, more relaxed you!
Over-stretched muscles, small sports injuries and even joint pain can be relieved with a hot bath and can be the perfect end to a session in the gym.
Many headaches are caused by the narrowing of blood vessels in the head. A hot bath can be used to alleviate the pressure on those blood vessels and ease that banging headache.
A warm bath is great before bed as it can aid sleep. When you are tense, and get into the bath, the water increases your body temperature and helps you, and your muscles, relax. As your muscles relax, not only do you relax physically, but mentally too. A bath of around 20 minutes can really help take stress and worry away and make it easier to fall asleep.
Pills and potions are great for a cold, but so is a bath. The steam from a hot bath can dry out the mucus that bungs you up and stops you from sleeping. Taking a hot bath for just 15 minutes can really benefit you when you are ill and if you add essential oils that can further help you and your cold.
Whilst a shower gets you clean, a good soak in the bath can open up the pores in our skin, and clean away some of dirt and toxins in our skin. The result is fresher, cleaner, glowing skin especially if you moisture once you are out of the bath and towel dry.
Sometimes complications can arise from a hot bath, so if you suffer from a chronic condition, check in with your doctor first. It is also worth remembering that taking a hot bath is not recommended if you are pregnant.
So, next time you feel a bit below par or have had a nightmare of a day, run a bath, add some salts, turn the lights down low and let your worries melt away.
Team Pure-Beauty