One of the best feelings in the world is probably soaking in warm water after a long and tiring day at work. Many people can attest that taking a hot bath can truly provide the ultimate relaxation. But in addition to that, it also has lots of health benefits. Many ancient cultures have long believed in the healing effects of water. One of those is the Japanese practice of engaging in public baths known as “sento,” which is used as a way of cleansing both the body and the mind.

Public baths are not available in the United States, but you can still get the benefits of hot baths in your own home. It is very relaxing, especially during the cold season. But aside from the relaxation it gives, what do you think are the other reasons why making time for a hot bath is worth it? If you want to learn more about it, read on as we’re giving you more information.

1. A hot bath can help lower blood sugar.

If you do not have time to go jogging or walking in the morning or afternoon, a hot bath might be what you need to lower your blood sugar and burn calories. Based on studies on the effects of a hot bath on blood sugar control and on energy expended, bathing resulted in about as many calories being burned as walking for half an hour. They also have similar overall blood sugar responses. Therefore, if you can’t hit the gym regularly, maybe you can take regular hot baths at home instead.

2. A hot bath can help you fall asleep faster.

Hot water helps in relaxing the body. When you take a hot bath before bed, it helps prepare you for falling asleep. When your body or muscles are tense, and you enter a warm bath, the hot water increases the temperature of your body and relaxes the muscles. In addition to hot water soothing your body physically, it also calms you mentally. Therefore, if you find it quite difficult to fall asleep at night, try taking a hot bath about 20 minutes before bedtime.

3. A hot bath can help lower blood pressure.

Based on studies, soaking in a hot bath can also help lower blood pressure. This is perfect for those who have heart conditions. However, it is always important to consult your doctor first if you have a heart condition. This is because a hot bath can raise the rate of your heartbeat. But if your doctor agrees, then it is one of the best ways to bring down your blood pressure.

4. A hot bath can help relieve muscle tension.

Taking a hot bath can also relieve tension and soothe stiff muscles. A hot bath is even better if you have a powerful shower head. You can use it as a mini massager on your back, neck, and shoulder to relax your muscles and relieve tension.

5. A hot bath can provide you with cleaner and healthier skin.

Soaking in hot water, either in a bath or shower, can help open up the pores on your skin. It can help wash some of the dirt and toxins, giving you fresher and cleaner skin.

6. A hot bath can help improve blood circulation.

Dipping in hot water to the neck is one of the best exercises for your blood vessels. Water creates physical pressure on the body, which increases the capacity of the heart. Therefore, when you are in hot water, the heart works faster and stronger. It is like a light exercise that you can do a few times a week for your heart.

7. A hot bath can help relieve the symptoms of cold and flu.

A hot shower is also a great and natural decongestant to relieve the symptoms of cold and flu. This is because the hot steam from the water moisturizes the nasal passages. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, take a hot-soak break for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help you feel better while your body is recovering.

8. A hot bath can help reduce headaches.

Most of the time, headaches are caused by the narrowing of blood vessels in the head. When you take a hot bath, it can alleviate the pressure on the blood vessels and treat your headache.

9. A hot bath can make you feel better after a stressful day.

Taking a nice, warm shower after a long day at work is one of the best ways to relax. In addition to that, it can also make you feel better about yourself. After a hot bath, you can be more confident in yourself and be more convinced that you can face the upcoming challenges at work. In addition to that, a hot bath is also a great way to lessen your daily anxiety and make you feel good all around.

These are some of the things that make a hot bath so worth it. It is also one of the best times wherein you can practice mindfulness. Taking a hot bath is like a way to wash off your day and release energy. We hope this article helped you learn more about the benefits of a hot bath.