Most of us get tired and stressed due to our hectic schedules. The hustle and bustle of daily life can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. One simple yet effective way to get relief from these stresses is by taking a hot bath. Yes, a hot bath has several benefits for your body and mind. It can help alleviate physical discomfort, reduce stress, and improve your sleep quality. In this article, we list the benefits of taking a hot bath and why you should add it to your self-care routine.
Benefits Of Taking Hot Bath
Relieves Stress
Dr Altaf Patel, Director, General Medicine, Jaslok Hospital and Research Center, Mumbai, said that hot baths can help relieve stress and anxiety. Hot baths trigger the release of endorphins, which are your body’s natural ‘feel-good’ hormones. These endorphins not only reduce pain perception but also promote a sense of well-being and happiness.
Also, warm water relaxes your muscles and unwinds your mind. The heat from the water helps increase blood flow, relaxes your muscles, and reduces tension, resulting in an overall sense of relaxation.
Improves Your Sleep Quality
If you struggle with insomnia or irregular sleep patterns, a hot bath can significantly improve your sleep quality. An analysis that combined data from 17 studies discovered that indulging in a warm evening shower or bath, with water temperature ranging from 104 -108.5 degrees Fahrenheit, enhances the quality of sleep. Also, individuals who engage in this practice one to two hours before bedtime experience quicker sleep onset.
Muscle Relaxation
A hot bath can be your go-to option after a strenuous workout or any other physical activity. It helps provide relief for sore and tight muscles by promoting flexibility and reducing discomfort. If you add Epsom salts to your bath, it can further enhance the muscle-relaxing benefits by providing magnesium to your body.
Also, the combination of heat and buoyancy can help ease the discomfort associated with conditions, such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other musculoskeletal issues. The relaxation and warmth from a hot bath can provide a comforting form of pain relief.
Improved Circulation
According to the Journal of Applied Physiology, heat therapy has the potential to enhance circulatory and vascular performance, potentially leading to a decrease in blood pressure and the rigidity of blood vessels.
Hot water causes blood vessels to dilate, improving blood circulation throughout your body. Also, improved circulation can contribute to healthier skin by nourishing your skin cells.
Respiratory Benefits
Taking a hot bath can be beneficial for your respiratory health. According to Dr Patel, “Hot showers have the potential to alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues and offer respite. It is believed that warm showers can expand airways, loosen mucus, and clear nasal passages.” Adding some essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to your bath can further enhance the respiratory benefits.
Enhanced Skin Health
Hot baths can improve skin health in several ways. They help in cleansing the skin by opening up pores, allowing dirt and impurities to be easily removed. Additionally, the increased circulation can give your skin a healthy, rosy glow. Just be sure to moisturise after your bath to prevent dryness.
[Disclaimer: The article contains information for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any health conditions to rule out the complications.]
