While we all know the importance of water for our survival, there is a tremendous therapeutic value to water as well. Hydrating, purifying, rejuvenating and restorative, not surprising as we are comprised mostly of water. Without it, we would fail to survive; with it, we can thrive and build resilience and improve immunity.
In the evening, there is nothing more tranquilizing than a hot bath or jumping in to a jacuzzi. Most would agree a hot tub is a blissful way to unwind at the end of a long day. Relaxing the vascular and muscular systems, it is calming to the mind and the body and may be unrivaled as a precursor for a good night’s rest. While hot water can be blissful, continual relaxation weakens the vascular system over the long term. Being exposed gradually to cold water is a wonderful counterbalance that helps to strengthen the muscles that control the vascular system.
Cold water is invigorating and is an excellent way to start the day. Rather than relaxing the veins, cold water causes the musculature to contract and expand strengthening the vascular system, helping to deliver more oxygen, blood and nutrients to the brain, the body and the extremities supercharging the body and the mind while conditioning cardiovascular health. An ideal way to begin the day, with mind and body alert, a cold water shower enhances mood, increases energy, is good for the skin, the hair and improves circulation. Cold water also cultivates true presence as the brain moves from thinking to activating an innate survival blueprint. Initially, cold water exposure draws blood from the extremities to the vital organs as a protective mechanism. After a short while, the extremities fill back up with blood causing them to warm from the inside out helping the body to adjust to the cooler temperature. If the body does not adjust within a few minutes, one might shiver. If shivering after a cold shower, it is helpful to jump around to get blood circulating to all parts of the body. This is also a wonderful tool to use if overexposed to cold, rather than bundling up in a blanket and sitting still after cold exposure, it is better to jump up and down to get the blood circulating; this can help prevent threats of overexposure to cold such as frostbite.
While both hot and cold water have therapeutic benefits, overexposure to hot or cold water can be detrimental, however gradual safe exposure to hot or cold water is beneficial as it activates an adaptation mechanism. As an example, gradual safe exposure to hot water can build one’s tolerance for the heat and potentially help mitigate any problems associated with overexposure to heat; the same is true for cold water as it trains the body to cope more effectively with the cold. The body’s adaptability decreases one’s sensitivities or susceptibilities helping to build resiliency and lessen vulnerabilities to exposure. Gradual hot or cold water are excellent resources to relax or invigorate the body. Like most things in life, balance is the key. Take advantage of the benefits of both hot and cold water. For me, my daily routine is a cold water shower in the morning and a hot water shower in the evening. Not only is it cleansing, I find it is the perfect recipe for a fulfilling day. After every cold shower, I do a happy dance and after every hot one, I melt into cozy land.
Resources and Sources:
Harcourt Health: Health 7 Health Benefits of Ice Cold Water https://harcourthealth.com/7-health-benefits-of-ice-cold-water/
Mutz, Phil. Little Things: Lifestyle: Ten Unbelievable Cold Water Benefits 12 May 2016. https://littlethings.com/lifestyle/health-benefits-cold-water
Peaceful Soul. How Cold Water Therapy Can Help with Your Physical Well Being. https://peacefulsoul.co/the-body/guides/how-cold-water-therapy-can-help-physical-wellbeing/
Your Bath Expert 9 Benefits of a Hot Water Bath: Bath Health Benefits https://yourbathexpert.com/9-benefits-of-a-hot-water-bath/#:~:text=Here%20are%209%20reasons%20to%20include%20a%20hot,out%20the%20correct%20oxygenation%20of%20…%20More%20items
Disclaimer:
These statements have not been approved by the U.S. FDA. We have no intention to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease. Before beginning any new regime, please consult with a licensed medical physician and always practice safety precautions.
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