What are the advantages of hot and cold showers?
People all over the world use water as a form of therapy (hydrotherapy). Each of our showers can be our mini-therapy, if only we know how to adjust the water temperature in such a way that it benefits our health. Although we often think that 10 minutes under hot water can solve all our problems, we neglect how many good things a cold shower can do for us. In this article, we will cover all the advantages of hot and cold water, so that depending on your mood and the condition of your skin, mind or body, you can determine which shower would suit you best at the moment.
Why shower with warm, hot water?
It helps us sleep
Warm water increases our body temperature and relaxes the muscles in the body. It calms us both mentally and physically, so it is best to take a shower with warm water in the evening before going to bed. In this way, we will improve the quality of sleep, we will wake up much more rested and ready for all the challenges we will face during the day.
Reduces headache
Just as warm compresses placed on the head or neck can help with migraines and headaches, so a hot shower can relax tense muscles in the body. When you take a shower, make sure that the water covers you from head to toe, because in addition to the head, it also relaxes the rest of the body. If your headaches are accompanied by nausea, then a hot shower is not the right solution for you.
Cleans pores
It is technically impossible for water, no matter how hot, to open the pores. They are not muscles and cannot open voluntarily regardless of temperature. Nevertheless, the warm water helps to wash away the accumulated dirt from them. This makes our skin more supple and can make pores look smaller.
It affects cold symptoms
A hot shower that surrounds us with steam has been used for years to reduce cold symptoms. It is a natural remedy that will help open the airways and at the same time clear our sinuses. After showering with hot water, we will be able to breathe more normally.
Why shower with cold water?
Improves circulation
By improving blood circulation in our body, we improve the functionality of the entire organism. It can help us with clogged arteries, lower blood pressure and increase immunity. In addition, cold water has the ability to reduce the redness on our body and helps in reducing the current pain.
Protects skin and hair
When we shower with cold water, the natural oils found in our hair and skin, which are very beneficial for them, are not washed away. It is gentler on our hair and can prevent hair loss. In addition, cold water constricts blood flow, making our skin healthier and more radiant.
It gives us the energy we need
A cold shower stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for how we deal with stressful situations. It triggers the release of hormones and we have the same feeling as with adrenaline. Research has also shown that in addition to helping the body cope with stress, taking a cold shower also increases our productivity.
It helps us lose weight
Cold water promotes the burning of certain fatty deposits, such as brown adipose tissue. When the body temperature increases due to a cold shower, it can burn calories and lose excess weight.