Do you sometimes find yourself torn between a hot and cold bath? Both baths have their own set of benefits when it comes to relaxation and your overall health. So, for the times you feel confused, how do you know which is best for you? The choice here is pretty subjective because you need to consider several factors, including the season, your age, habits, disease, etc.
Cold Baths
Cold baths are perfect during the summer season and for individuals who live in warmer areas. This type of bath can be more soothing than a hot one. Aside from the season/weather, there is something so relaxing with having a cold bath at home—there’s more to it than keeping your body cool during the hot summer days.
For one, cold baths can help reduce depression. A cold bath can give you a good jolt and boost your mood. You will notice there are times when a cold bath seems more relaxing and soothing on days when you feel down.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a way to re-energize yourself in the morning, a cold-water bath will help do just that. Cold baths are perfect for days when you don’t feel like doing anything but you have to. It’s also a great thing to do if you plan to exercise in the morning; a cold bath will definitely give you that willpower to get through your workout.
For individuals who are looking to level up their beauty ritual, specifically their skincare game, cold baths can help tighten the pores. Additionally, it can make your hair and skin silkier because the cold water can help retain natural oils and keep the skin hydrated.
Cold baths will keep your blood flowing because the body reacts to the cold naturally by increasing our heart rates. In turn, this pumps out blood quicker throughout the whole body. When the heart is pumping efficiently, your blood circulation will significantly improve even after you’re out of the shower.
Hot Baths
Some people prefer to take hot baths, no matter what the season is. There’s something extremely relaxing when you soak your body in hot water. Similar to cold baths, hot baths have a lot of benefits as well.
Did you know that you could lose some calories while you’re in having a hot bath? An hour of soaking in a hot bath can burn as many calories; similar to the number of calories you can burn with half an hour of walking. Aside from that, hot showers can help lower your blood sugar.
When it comes to your skin pores, a hot bath is perfect for cleansing the pores because it can open them up and flush the dirt and toxins that have accumulated throughout the day. A hot bath will make your pores feel cleaner; in turn, you’ll feel better about yourself.
In the case you have problems with your sinuses, a steamy bath can help alleviate dry or congested sinuses. The steam from a hot bath can loosen phlegm.
And one of the most important things about hot baths and relaxation is that it can help you sleep more soundly. Try to take a hot bath before bed, but be mindful of the timing. The body’s circadian rhythm will naturally slow down in the evening because it knows that it’s time for rest. Hence, if you bathe right before bed, you could increase your temperature; in turn, this will increase your alertness. When that happens, you won’t be able to sleep quickly. It’s best to have a hot bath a few hours before you hit the sack.
The Choice Is Yours
Whatever you choose, hot and cold baths can be beneficial for you and your overall health. It’s all about listening to what your body wants and needs. There are times that even when it’s freezing outside, your body would look for the comfort of cold water—it’s just the way it goes. And most of the time, it’s all about giving your body what it wants and needs that will make you feel more relaxed than ever.
At the end of the day, you will have your bath. So next time you’re in the shower, think about what you want to achieve, aside from relaxation. For example, do you want to cleanse your pores or tighten them? As mentioned, hot is way better for cleansing while a cold bath is perfect if you want to tighten those pores. Choose wisely.
The next time you’re torn between a hot and a cold bath, think about what you want to achieve and from there, you will be able to decide the best next course of action.
If you want to make your baths relaxing, adding some soothing products will be great. Aromatherapy oils and other soothing products will do the trick. The Lilliuma Detoxify Bath Salt is perfect for your hot baths—for the times you need to do some cleansing. However, you can also use this along with a “warm enough” bath.
To achieve the ultimate relaxation at home, you might also want to consider setting up your very own home spa. With creativity and thorough research, you can have your home spa without breaking the bank. So, why not go ahead and do it? You can even save more money in the long run!
