Cool Baths

Cool water bathing is an effective therapeutic method for reducing inflammation, and increasing circulation. Although it is difficult to get used to the idea of bathing in cold water, it is easier to do, when you realize that cool water bathing has amazing therapeutic benefits.

Only recently recognized in the United States as a necessity for health maintenance, water therapies are quickly growing in popularity. Your bathroom can be your own mini-spa. A crisp cool or cold soak is exactly what you need to promote circulation and energize your system.

Bathing in cool or tepid bath water provides relief from stress and reduces
inflammation. Cool baths increase blood flow and produce healthy, glowing
skin. A cool or cold bath causes small blood vessels to dilate and thus increases
blood flow resulting in an invigorating and refreshing feeling.

Some herbal mixtures actually are more effective in cool baths than hot baths.

Botanicals of lavender, chamomile, linden, valerian, hops, burdock root, yarrow, cucumber, and passion flower make excellent additions to tepid bathing therapies. Contrary to popular opinion, heat is not required to release the healing properties of herbal preparations. The quantity and combination of herbs, however, is important. The purpose of the bath should be matched to the herbal preparation. For example, if a stress-relief bath is needed, a combination of lavender, chamomile and passion flower would be a useful remedy.

Cool soaks can be anywhere between 80 and 97 degrees Fahrenheit. Jumping
directly into a 70 degree bath is not recommended, however. It is best to
gradually reduce the temperature by slowly adding cold water to the bath.  Cool or cold soaks are much shorter than hot soaks. Ten minutes should be the longest cool soak. The average time and temperature for a cool soak is seven minutes at 94 degrees F. Times and temperatures can vary according to bathers' preferences and experiences. Cold soaks which are 50 to 70 degrees F., should not exceed three minutes and can be as short as five seconds.

Alternating hot/cold bathing therapies are discussed on the Hot/Cold Baths page.

To receive the most benefits from your cool botanical soak, follow the guidelines
below.

1.   Take a cleansing shower with olive oil soap.
2.   Fill tub 1/2 full with tepid water.
3.   Add botanical mixture to tub and stir.
4.   Get in the tub and start to add cooler water as tolerated.
5.   Enjoy a 10 minute soak.
6.   Apply an after-bath body oil or butter rather than lotion.

After your cool botanical soak, you will feel invigorated and have a healthy glow.