Scientific research has proven that our body can rebuild and improve its health with the aid of water.
Many cultures observe rituals such as infant baptism with water and providing water to travelers.
Therapeutic baths are some of the oldest healing methods. They are easy to prepare and bring countless benefits: they cure fatigue, calm the nervous system, regenerate the skin, improve sleep and metabolism, and provide relief from pain and muscle tension. Therapeutic baths can be prepared at home by alternating cold and hot bath water or by adding herbal extracts and herbs to the water.
Alternating cold and hot water
Hippocrates of the ancient Greece, and then Avicenna, an Arab physician and philosopher of medieval times, recommended intensive water therapy that consisted of alternating hot and cold water and was followed by massage. Alternating cold and hot water is a miracle cure for many diseases: it improves blood circulation and metabolism, helps remove mucus, strengthens the muscles, the heart and the nervous system, improves the immune system and eliminate reactions caused by weather changes by reducing sensitivity to cold and heat.
It is recommended to have two daily cold-hot showers, one in the morning and one in the evening. Start with warm water for 40 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of cold water. Shower for 3-8 minutes, depending on how comfortable you feel. Always end with cold water so the blood vessels contract; this way, colds can also be prevented. After the shower, massage your skin for 3-5 minutes with a towel soaked in plain water or herbal extracts, until your skin warms up and turns red.
Herbal baths
Take 15-25 minute herbal baths; the length of the bath can vary depending on how comfortable you feel. For optimal effect, take one bath daily for two or three weeks. Make sure to relax and listen to your favourite music while bathing.
Here are some examples of how to prepare a herbal bath:
1. Pour five liters of boiling water over 300 grams of chamomile flowers, infuse for two hours, then strain the water and pour it into your bath water. This bath is useful to treat backache and joint pain and inflammation, and for general rehabilitation. The ideal temperature for the bath is 35 degrees Celsius.
2. Pour five liters of boiling water over 200 grams of sage flowers, infuse for two hours, then strain the water and pour it into your bath water. This bath is effective in cases of hypertension, asthma, bronchitis, skin diseases, inflammation and joint problems. The ideal temperature for the bath is 35 degrees Celsius.
3. Add 1.5 kg spruce branches in five liters of water and simmer for 30 minutes. Strain and pour the water into your bath. The infusion is an effective remedy for backache and bone pain, and for swollen hands and feet. The temperature of the bath should be 28 degrees Celsius.
4. Dissolve two kilograms of salt in your bath water. Salty water is a great remedy for the nervous system, sore muscles and joints, and the immune system. The temperature of the water should be 37 degrees Celsius.
A therapeutic bath is extremely relaxing, and it purifies both the body and the mind.