Baths and bathing have been a large part of human health so much so that every culture on the planet has a bathing tradition! ⁠

Whether that’s Turkish hammams, Japanese onsens, Roman baths, or Swedish saunas, the list is endless for people harnessing the power of being submerged in water – whether hot or cold!

But why are they so good for you?

Baths can help relieve tired and sore muscles, promote deep sleep, and reduce stress.⁠

They are also good for irritated skin if you suffer from eczema or other skin conditions especially if you add in oils.

By adding bath salts you’re amplifying the benefits with added magnesium, iodine and calcium.⁠

The most benefit comes from having a bath that’s not too hot either as sometimes that can cause heat stress on the body, so it’s best to make it around body temperature – 37 °C.

Saying that though, steam from a hot bath does wonders if you’ve got a cold, especially if you add in some eucalyptus or tea tree essential oils to help clear blocked noses.

And on the complete other send of the spectrum there is a case made for ice cold bathing or submersion, a form of cryotherapy, for improved immunity, reducing inflammation and helping lymphatic drainage.

A Great Way To De-Stress

And finally they are thought to be a great de-stressor thanks to lowering your blood pressure and their naturally supported solo time away from the demands of every day life – even if you are taking a particularly thrilling Netflix season in for company.

So next time you’ve got some spare time and a shower just isn’t going to cut it. Prepare for some you-time and draw yourself a bath, find a good book or podcast, light a candle, pour in your bath salts, and lie back and relax.