A warm bath is a great way to relax and unwind at the end of a day. It also can help you sleep better.
Immersing yourself in hot water increases your body temperature, which causes the release of hormones and neurotransmitters that are associated with relaxation and good mood.
A warm bath can also improve breathing by increasing lung capacity and oxygen intake through the dilation of blood vessels.
Soothes Sore Muscles
A warm soak in a tub is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long day at work or a tough workout. It’s also a great way to soothe sore muscles and aches.
The warmth from the bath encourages blood flow, which makes your muscles and connective tissues feel more supple, reducing muscle tension and tightness. Adding bath salts or essential oils can enhance the relaxation of your muscles, while also improving your overall mood. A few drops of eucalyptus, bergamot or lavender can help reduce soreness and ease pain.
While it is not recommended to get into a hot bath immediately after exercise, you can use this method at other times for muscle recovery. Just make sure the water temperature isn’t too hot, as this can cause other issues like a drop in blood pressure and prevent you from relaxing effectively. The ideal temperature is between 92 and 96 degrees.
Relieves Stress
A warm bath is the perfect antidote to a stressful day. The calming effects of being submerged in warm water activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to reduce stress hormones and improve mood.
Adding a few drops of therapeutic essential oils and some scented candles to the tub enhances this experience and can help you relax even more. You can also put on some relaxing music to drown out any other distractions, and enjoy a healthy snack while you soak.
A warm bath should be taken just before you plan to go to sleep as it can help your body produce the melatonin that induces sleep. And since the high temperature of the water causes blood vessels to dilate, it can also lower your heart rate, which in turn can help you avoid serious cardiovascular problems.
Improves Circulation
In a warm bath, the body’s blood vessels open and encourage blood flow throughout the body. This is particularly helpful for those with poor circulation and can help alleviate symptoms such as cold limbs and fatigue.
Immersing yourself in warm water also reduces inflammation and helps maintain a healthy heart. The buoyancy of the water decreases gravity’s effect on your joints and muscles, providing a natural relief for pain from musculoskeletal disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Immersing yourself in hot bath water also raises your core temperature and creates an artificial fever that activates the immune system, killing bacteria and breaking up congestion to prevent infections. Moreover, soaking in a warm bath helps you sleep better by easing stress and lowering your heart rate. Add eucalyptus or peppermint oils to your bath for even more benefits. Adding these essential oils also helps moisturize the skin. This is ideal for dry winter months. A warm bath also provides a good amount of exercise for your heart, making it stronger and healthier.
Relieves Tension
Whether you’re an athlete who pushes your body to the limits or spend your workdays seated and suffering from back pain, immersing yourself in warm water improves circulation and loosens tight muscles. A hot bath also relieves stress, releasing endorphins to lift mood and ease depression.
Soaking in a hot tub may help reduce back, neck and shoulder pain by relaxing the muscles surrounding damaged nerves or spinal discs. During a soak, the hot water increases the body’s internal temperature, lowering muscle tension and causing blood vessels to dilate for increased circulation.
However, the best time to soak is at night before you sleep because it can calm your nervous system and make it easier for you to fall asleep. While you’re soaking, turn off your phone and make sure there is no distraction to allow you to focus on yourself. Adding bath salts and essential oils can further enhance your experience, but never overdo it.
