A hot bath has hidden powers that go well beyond its ability to help you unwind and relax in a peaceful setting. It’s not just quality “alone time”, either.
The fact is, hot baths have therapeutic powers – enough to make you want to unleash their potential more often.
Let’s have a look at what hot baths can do for you.
Anxiety Relief
Research shows that soaking in a tub can outperform prescription drugs in relieving anxiety. But since every case is different, check with your doctor in advance.
Stop That Itch
Adding a couple of tablespoons of olive or coconut oil to bath water can help relieve itching and flaking skin caused by psoriasis. Oil moisturises your skin, helping to remove scales and making your skin less prone to infection. The trick, however, is to limit your bath to ten minutes or less to prevent your skin from drying out. Once you’ve toweled off, apply a moisturising cream.
The Power of Oatmeal
No, we’re not recommending turning your tub into a giant cereal bowl. But yes, the avenanthramides in oats help calm inflamed, itchy skin. Place whole oats in a clean, dry sock. Seal the open end with a rubber band, and then drop the sock into the bath water. Soak yourself for 15 to 20 minutes.
Lights Out
Slipping between cool sheets helps trigger a drop in your body temperature. That, in turn, produces melatonin, a natural sleep inducer. To sleep more soundly, take a warm bath just before bed time. That will temporarily raise your body temperature. Once you cool off between the sheets, you’ll sleep like a baby.
Fight That Cold
A hot bath can soothe stuffy nasal passages and erase body aches. It also can release painkilling endorphins inside the brain. You’ll feel and sleep better.
Of course, the key to taking hot baths is to have plenty of hot water for that and all your other hot water needs. If your water heater isn’t performing up to par or it’s time to replace it, contact Swan’s Complete Plumbing today.
