We’ve all woken up on a chilly morning before work and instantly began dreaming of the moment we can go home, crack open the bath salts, stir in some bubble bath and finally dip our toes in a hot, relaxing tub. For the most part, however, we opt for the quick convenience of a shower.
In fact, 3 in 5 Brits claim they predominantly choose a shower over a bath. Although the general consensus is that the UK is a nation of shower-lovers, we shouldn’t solely see bathing as a one-off ‘treat’ for those colder days. Baths are beneficial in dozens of ways, many of which are rarely known about.
A Hot Bath Reduces Blood Pressure
Taking a regular warm bath has been proven to have benefits similar to some exercise, including the ability to reduce blood pressure. The science behind this claims being submerged in warm or hot water induces better blood flow and circulation, essentially giving your body a mini-workout. Reducing blood pressure can help in preventing other, more serious conditions such as heart attacks and the chances of having a stroke.
Softened Skin Means Easier Exfoliation
Our skin takes on a lot throughout the day, we’re exposed to various weather and environmental factors as well as natural bodily functions such as sweating. Submerging our bodies in a warm bath softens the skin and makes it much easier for us to exfoliate and care for our skin cells. Without using any special exfoliating scrubs or mitts, simply using your usual bar of soap or body wash will be enough to exfoliate the day away from your skin and leave you feeling fresher than ever. Best of all, because you’re avoiding harsh exfoliating methods such as gloves made from viscose fibre, your skin isn’t being irritated and causing inflammation. Win-win.
Bathing Soothes Aching Muscles and Joints
There’s no better feeling than soaking in a hot tub when you’re struggling with aches and pains. The science behind reduced pain links back to circulation, with improved blood circulation you’re increasing the blood flow to your muscles which promotes faster healing and reduces inflammation of the joints. Using bath salts often feels like our aches and pains are reducing even further due to their calming aroma and a key relax-inducing ingredient, epsom salt.
A Bath a Day is Ideal for Good Mental Health
According to researchers, a regular warm bath can have a greater effect on mood than some physical exercise. By increasing our body temperatures, warm baths help to strengthen and synchronise circadian rhythms. Healthy blood circulation and cardiac activity affects every one of our organs, including the brain. This means that a healthy heart = a healthy mind. More than the complex inner workings of the human body, taking the time out of our busy schedules to sit with our thoughts and feelings in a warming, calming environment gives us the chance to reflect on our lives, individual situations and how we feel. It’s the time we need to be kind and honest with ourselves in a safe space away from the hustle and bustle of our everyday routines.
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Ok, so, maybe a bath every single day might be a stretch. After all, we have our busy lives to attend to and a shower is usually the quicker option, but let’s not push bathing aside until we feel we ‘need’ to destress. Let’s make bathing the norm and encourage taking time out to look after the mind and body, no matter our external circumstances. ‘You’ time is valuable and should be prioritised, so let’s turn this nation of shower-people into a nation of tub-lovers. And don't forget to add a Sento bath bomb for good measure!
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Why Baths Are A Great Way To Relax
