Indulge in Bath Therapy!

The new year is almost here, you've made it! Now for some intentional self-care as you begin anew.

What is Bath Therapy?

Bath therapy, also known as balneotherapy, is the practice of taking baths for therapeutic benefits. This practice has been around for centuries and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, from skin conditions to mental health issues.

The use of water for therapeutic purposes dates back to ancient times, with many different cultures incorporating the use of baths and water treatments into their medical practices. In fact, the word "balneotherapy" comes from the Latin word "balneum," which means "bath."

Today, bath therapy can take many different forms, from hot baths and saunas to cold plunges and showers. Think beyond cleaning your skin and consider what type of bath therapy will be most effective for for specific health needs and concerns.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

One of the key benefits of bath therapy is that it can help to promote relaxation and stress relief. The warmth of the water can help to soothe tired muscles and reduce tension in the body, leading to a sense of calm and relaxation. This can be especially beneficial if you are dealing with high levels of stress or anxiety, as it can help to calm the mind and promote a sense of well-being. To aid you in your relaxation, it is beneficial to add lavender essential oil to the water for the topical and aromatherapy benefits.

Improved Circulation

In addition to promoting relaxation and stress relief, bath therapy can also help to improve circulation. The heat of the water causes blood vessels to dilate, which can help to increase blood flow throughout the body. This can have a number of benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and reduced risk of heart disease.

Relief from muscle and joint pain

Bath therapy can also provide relief from muscle and joint pain. The warmth of the water can help to loosen tight muscles and reduce stiffness in the joints, making it easier for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia to move around and go about their daily activities. After a muscle relieving bath, consider applying a tea tree balm with a massage to further aid in relaxation. Bath salts not only help with muscle tension, but when chosen carefully the right bath salt can balance your mineral levels. Always remember that what you put on your body has a good chance of soaking into your body as well.

Improved sleep

Additionally, many people find that taking a warm bath before bedtime can help to improve their sleep. The relaxation and stress-reducing effects of bath therapy can calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.

Improved skin health

Another potential benefit of bath therapy is improved skin health. Soaking in warm water can help to remove dead skin cells and promote the growth of new ones, keeping the skin looking healthy and radiant. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who are dealing with skin conditions such as acne or eczema. Try a dry exfoliation before you get into the bath for maximum benefit.

Overall, bath therapy offers a range of potential benefits, from relaxation and stress relief to improved circulation and skin health. My husband takes a bath daily for stress management and I try to soak once a week with bath salts to help replenish my mineral levels. So, whether you are dealing with chronic pain, high levels of stress, or simply want to improve your overall health and well-being, taking a warm bath can be a simple and effective way to promote relaxation and improve your overall health.

Kristine Sperling and the Makes 3 Organics Wellness Team

Kristine Sperling is a wellness enthusiast and co-founder of Makes 3 Organics, an organic brand dedicated to providing consumers organic alternatives to conventional personal care products. She lives in Santa Barbara, California, with her co-founder husband, Dan, their teenager, Alice, and their blue Shih Tzu, King.