Hydrotherapy is an ancient form of healing and rejuvenation, used during the history by the yogis, Romans, Turks, Japanese, and many others. Bathing in mineral spas and taking cold showers had been an often recommended medical practice to cure all sorts of ailments. Of course, public baths were also the places where more than one love affair, or political conspiracy, began.
Healing with water is still popular today! You don’t need to head to the nearest spa to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy – you can do it in your own bathroom, or – if you’re lucky enough to own an outdoor spa – under the open sky!
When immersed in the water, your body weight is reduced by ninety percent, which relieves pressure on your joints and muscles, while at the same time giving you the sense of weightlessness that can be very relaxing. Hot water causes blood vessels to dilate, which gets the blood and lymph closer to the surface of the skin, and promotes circulation when that process is reversed by applying cold water. Improved circulation in turn boosts your immune system and provides other health benefits. This is useful for detoxifying the organism, supplying nutrients and oxygen to the body’s tissues while removing the waste products and impurities. It is effective with cellulite and swelling in the feet and legs.
If your hot tub comes with focused whirlpool jets, use the hydrostatic pressure to massage your body. Not only will this relax your tight muscles, but the natural feel-good chemicals, endorphins, will flood your body. The release of endorphins is known to reduce inflammation, fortify your immune system, and help you heal. If you do it in the evening, it will help you sleep better.
Hydrotherapy can reduce the symptoms of respiratory infections, including asthma, pneumonia, bronchitis, influenza and the common cold. It can provide some relief with the arthritis pain. It is effective in easing, and preventing, tension headaches associated with stress. Hydrotherapy is beneficial for problems with constipation, menstrual cramps, menopausal hot flashes, and emotional agitation.
While the water therapy is as natural as it gets, it is not recommended for pregnant women, diabetics, those who suffer from either high or low pressure, multiple sclerosis, or Reynaud’s disease. Of course, while soaking in the hot bath can be so pleasant that you’d want it to last forever, do not stay in the hot water too long, and endure the heat only for as long as is comfortable.