After a tiring day at work, nothing is more relaxing than soaking in a warm bath during cold winter days or splashing around in a cool bath on hot summer days. Whether it’s a hot or cold bath, the benefits of soaking in a tub have been scientifically proven to enhance both physical and mental health. Here are 10 scientifically proven health benefits of taking a bath:
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Although a hot bath might put extra strain on your heart, especially if you have existing cardiovascular conditions, soaking in warm water can help your heart beat more strongly, improving its function during exercise. Bathing in warm water can enhance blood circulation by reducing blood viscosity, helping blood vessels function better. For those without a history of cardiovascular disease or healthy individuals, warm baths can lower blood pressure and improve circulation.Helps You Breathe Easier
Soaking in water up to your chest can have positive effects on your chest cavity and the amount of oxygen you inhale. Two factors contribute to this: the water's temperature and the pressure it exerts on your chest and lungs. When the water is warmer, your heart beats faster, and you inhale more oxygen. The heat generated while bathing also helps clear your nasal passages and chest. Soaking in cold water (such as swimming or a cold bath) can help reduce infections in people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Studies in teenage girls have shown that swimming can improve lung development and function due to the resistance and breathing techniques required underwater, which forces the lungs to become more resilient. Underwater, you'll need to take longer, deeper breaths, improving lung strength and function.Benefits for the Brain and Nervous System
Soaking in water can reduce inflammation and pain, relax the nervous system, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mood. Hydrotherapy can be beneficial for people with multiple sclerosis, as the temperature and pressure of the water help alleviate spinal pain. With stable posture in the water, it can reduce symptoms of Parkinson's disease, making patients feel more comfortable and improving their quality of life.Benefits for Muscles, Bones, and Joints
Muscle relaxation and movement in water have been shown to positively affect bones and joints, with moderate resistance exercises in water being particularly effective. People prone to falls are less likely to fall when exercising in water, making water exercises ideal for the elderly.Improves Digestive Function
Warm steam can alleviate pain related to hemorrhoids or anal fissures. The temperature can relax the sphincter muscles and help wounds heal faster after surgery. Although you shouldn’t bathe immediately after eating, in general, bathing can improve blood flow, thereby supporting digestion. In fact, a recent independent study found that taking a bath can lower blood sugar levels, helping diabetic patients manage their weight better.
Stimulates Natural Childbirth and Improves the Urinary System
Many records document that women in the early stages of labor can relax maximally and minimize pain when soaking in a warm bath. This also helps them focus better on childbirth and the delivery process. Soaking in water during and after childbirth does not negatively affect either the mother or the child. In some cultures, bathing after childbirth with herbs and essential oils can contribute to the physical and mental recovery process. While frequent bathing may increase the risk of urinary tract infections, especially in those prone to recurrent UTIs, bathing with warm water in moderation can help relax the urinary sphincter and reduce pain after surgery, speeding up the healing process from episiotomy or perineal tears during childbirth.Good for Blood Circulation and the Immune System
A warm bath not only helps blood circulate more easily but also enables the blood to carry more oxygen, as you tend to breathe deeper and slower while in the water. Soaking in hot water or visiting a spa with hot baths can kill bacteria and improve the immune system, reducing cold and flu symptoms. Studies have shown that soaking in cold water can help repair cell damage and reduce the risk of necrosis, lowering the risk and increasing the survival rate of certain cancers.
Balances Hormones
Conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome and some reproductive health issues can improve with cold water baths. Hormones released by the pituitary gland, such as ACTH, beta-endorphins, or cortisol, can remain balanced. Additionally, warm baths can increase serotonin levels in the brain, a hormone linked to feelings of happiness.Cleanses and Moisturizes Skin, Hair, and Eyes
Exposure to water and steam during a bath is a great way to ensure your body stays hydrated. The human body is largely made up of water, which is why we’re advised to drink plenty of fluids. But soaking in water also has many benefits. You can enhance the benefits of a bath by adding a few drops of essential oils and salts or by using natural spring water. Hot water opens pores and makes the body sweat—one of the most natural and effective ways to cleanse the body. Similarly, cold water tightens the skin, reduces sweating, and closes pores, helping the body retain moisture.
Maximizes Body Core Temperature
There’s no quicker and more comfortable way to regulate body temperature than by taking a bath. On cold days, a hot bath will certainly warm you up. On hot summer days, swimming in a cool pool is the best way to cool your body down.
Evidence shows that taking a bath, whether with hot or cold water, at home or in natural eco-resort pools, offers many benefits without any negative impacts. However, if you have a medical condition, you should consult a doctor about bathing or before applying any water therapy.
