Back in my teenage years, I found myself living with my grandmother. Her home, built in the 1950s, had its quirks—like a rotary phone she had rented from Bell for over three decades and a distinct lack of modern conveniences like a dishwasher. One striking feature was the absence of a shower; we only had a bathtub. Initially, I wasn’t fond of it, but over time, I grew to appreciate the tranquility that came with soaking in warm water. Now, at 38, I rarely opt for showers, as I’ve become accustomed to the calming moments I get from a long bath. Dealing with anxiety, I often turn to hot baths when stress overwhelms me. Surprisingly, research suggests that these baths offer more than just comfort for my mental state.
A comprehensive study from Japan published in the May 2020 issue of the journal Heart highlights the health benefits of soaking in hot water. Researchers followed 30,000 participants for over two decades, inquiring about their bathing habits. In Japan, where volcanic hot springs are abundant, the practice of bathing is culturally significant, known as onsen. Participants were asked about their preferred water temperature: lukewarm, warm, or hot. While I enjoy my baths warm, I seldom share the tub with others, so I can’t compare my preferences with anyone.
Remarkably, 72% of participants reported bathing almost daily, which made me a bit envious. The study revealed that individuals who bathed daily had a 28% lower risk of cardiovascular disease compared to those who bathed only twice a week; they also had a 26% reduced risk of stroke. This information could be particularly beneficial if you have a family history of heart issues.
Professor Shinya Hayasaka from Tokyo City University discussed the study’s findings in an interview with Deutsche Welle, explaining that hot baths promote relaxation and expansion of the arteries, enhancing blood circulation. This increase in blood flow delivers oxygen and nutrients to the estimated 37 trillion cells in our bodies while removing waste products. It’s this boost in circulation that creates the restorative experience of soaking in a bath, making it feel like the fatigue of the day is dissipating. I must admit, after reading that, I feel tempted to stop writing and enjoy a soak myself.
As for showers, while the study doesn’t outright dismiss them, Hayasaka mentioned that the fast pace of modern life has resulted in only 40% of people bathing in tubs daily. He warned that this trend may contribute to a rise in heart attacks and strokes.
However, there are some precautions to consider. According to Harvard Health Publishing, hot baths can lower blood pressure, but this can be risky for individuals with already low blood pressure. Dr. Adolph Hutter, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, cautioned that older adults with low blood pressure should be particularly careful, as overly hot water can lead to dizziness or fainting. I can personally attest to this; I once passed out while getting out of my grandmother’s tub, resulting in a concussion. Dr. Hutter advises that a water temperature between 100° and 105° F is safe and recommends entering the tub slowly to allow your body to adjust.
So, if you’re a fan of baths, I encourage you to indulge guilt-free! Use this study as justification for a long, warm soak in the tub. Not only are you nurturing your heart, but you’re also reaping the mental health benefits.
For more insights on home insemination, check out our other blog post here. Also, for authoritative information, visit this resource about the best home insemination kits. And for further details on procedures, consider looking at this informative link.
Potential search queries:
- Benefits of taking a hot bath
- How often should you take a bath?
- Hot bath and cardiovascular health
- Risks of bathing for older adults
- Best practices for safe bathing temperatures
In summary, taking a hot bath not only offers relaxation but also has potential health benefits, including a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Just remember to be cautious with water temperature, especially if you have low blood pressure.