Stress is a significant health problem for most adults, because stress is constantly building from the pressure of work, family, and other obligations. Unfortunately, many people do not take the time necessary to relieve this stress. There are both emotional and physical consequences of overloading oneself with stress, so it is important to learn to harness stress on a daily basis. Soaking in the bath is an excellent stress relief technique that you can utilize every day. It is important to start out your bath with dry brushing your skin.
History of the bathing ritual
Ancient civilizations of the east and west enjoyed baths because of their healing power and luxurious appeal. Bath houses existed in Rome, Japan, and Egypt, and these centers were extravagant structures where the rich and poor would gather to cleanse, socialize, and be entertained. Some bath houses were large enough to fit thousands of patrons, but they generally featured private rooms for more notable citizens. As societies continued to evolve, the bath became a fixture in the home, making baths a more private affair. However, there is still some semblance of ancient bath houses in today’s public saunas and hot tubs.
Physical and spiritual effects
Soaking in a bath heals in two ways. First, the warmth of the bath causes a physiological reaction in the body. The blood vessels dilate and increase circulation, which causes the muscles to relax. Deep tension can be released simply from a long soak in water just over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. As your body relaxes physically, the chemical dopamine is released in the brain to give you a sensation of euphoria and help you let go of the emotional stresses in your life, enhancing your path for spiritual contemplation and connection.
Enhancing the healing power of your bath
You can unlock more healing power from your soak by adding aromatic salts and oils that trigger various reactions to help you feel energized, sleepy, sensual, or deeply relaxed. Floral and herbal oils tend to promote more calm sensations while brighter scents such as citrus fruit and juniper berry will excite your senses and wake you up.
The OHI store carries a great selection of essential oils that are perfect for adding to your bath. You can order by calling the OHI store at (888) 643-7867.
Soaking is only one of the many ways to heal yourself holistically . If you are interested in other healing strategies you can discover them through the holistic healing program at Optimum Health Institute. You will learn alongside other guests how to quiet the mind, awaken the spirit, and cleanse the body with prayer, meditation, raw food dieting, detoxing the body and exercise. You can find more details about the OHI program or by calling (800) 993-4325.
