Table of Contents
Introduction
People choose Hot Water bath or cold water bath – When the days get hot, people switch the shower to cold water; when the days get colder, the bath water usually gets warmer. A cold water shower can be very refreshing in the summer, just as a hot shower can be very relaxing in the winter. But have you ever thought about what is good for you? Well, there’s no hard and fast rule for which is best. According to Ayurveda, hot water should be used for bathing the body, and cold water should be used for bathing the head. The debate between hot and cold water baths has been going on for a long time. While each has its benefits, it depends on various factors one should choose, such as age, the current time of year, habits, medical history, etc. Read on to understand the benefits of hot and cold water baths.
Benefits Of A Cold Water Bath
A cold water bath stimulates nerve endings and gives you a good start in the morning. Laziness is also eliminated with its aid.Cold water baths increase the release of depression-fighting chemicals like beta-endorphins, thereby helping you relieve depression.Studies have shown that a cold water bath improves men’s reproductive health by stimulating the release of testosterone.It can also help improve lung function.
Cold baths stimulate the body’s lymphatic and immune systems and increase the production of infection-fighting cells.
Benefits Of A Hot Water Bath
- Warmer temperatures, as we all know, tend to destroy more germs.
- Studies show that a hot bath improves muscle flexibility and also helps relax sore muscles.
- A hot water bath reduces blood sugar levels, which lessens your risk of hyperglycemia.
- It is also beneficial for treating coughs and colds, as the steam helps clear the airways and soothes the throat and nose.
- Is it better to take a cold or hot shower? Ayurveda has an answer for you. Ayurveda suggests using hot water for the body and cold water for the head because washing eyes and hair with hot water is not good for health. According to Ayurveda, water temperature should depend on the following things:
Depending on Age
It is recommended that young people take a bath in cold water. For the elderly, it is recommended to take a bath with warm water. But a cold water bath will benefit you if you’re a student and want to spend more time studying.
Based on Body Type
If your body type is pitta, it is best to take a bath in cold water, and if your body type is Kapha or vata, use warm water.
Based On Diseases
A cold water bath benefits your health if you suffer from a Pitta-related illness such as indigestion or liver disease. And if you suffer from disorders related to Kapha or vata, a hot water bath is preferable. If you are epileptic, hot and cold water baths are not recommended. Bathe in lukewarm water instead.
Depending on Bath Time
If you take a bath in the morning, it is good to take a cold water bath. But if you bath at night, a warm bath will help you relax. Since Vata dominates the evening, it is beneficial to bath with warm water.
How To Hot Water Bath or Cold Water Bath According To Ayurveda
Rushing through a bath is similar to rushing through a meal; as a result, your body won’t receive the full benefits and won’t be as effective “Ayurveda advises. If you bathe quickly, you won’t be thoroughly washed. “A satisfying bathing experience is crucial for feeling fresh.
You need to do the process slowly so that every part of your body gets enough exposure to the water. This is how you should bath:
Start by washing your hands and feet. If you’re swimming in cold water, your approach should be head-to-toe. And when you bath with hot water, wash your toes first, then go up to your head. As for the soap, avoid the chemical-laden soaps available in the market, as the skin will absorb all the chemicals from the soaps. Before a bath, the body should benefit from a nice massage with mustard or sesame oil. It energizes the muscles and brightens the skin. It would help if you did not rush when bathing, but you should not bath too long. Bathing twice a day is also enough for better hygiene.You can put some neem leaves in water and let them sit for some time. Then take a bath in this water. It will make your skin healthier.
Conclusion
While you may have your personal preference when it comes to hot water baths versus cold water baths, the discussion above will help you make an informed choice based on your needs and skin type. . . While cold water helps stimulate your nerve endings and prepares you for a refreshing start to the day, warm water baths help relax and soothe sore muscles. Age, time of year, habits, and usual bath time all play a big role in deciding