Almost everyone loves a good bubble bath. There's something so calming, fun, and nostalgic about taking a bath.
Unfortunately, adults don't get to take as many baths as they want.
Why? Well, there are a number of reasons: baths take longer than showers; they're not as convenient as showers; and showers just feel easier for some reason.
There are a lot of myths floating around about why baths aren't as good for you as showers, but I'm here to dispel some of those.
Baths are indeed good for you — and for a number of reasons. Not only are they a perfect way to relax with a glass of wine at the end of a long day, they actually have a lot of health benefits as well.
Read on to find out more about the benefits of taking baths — and let us know in the comments if you prefer baths to showers!
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1. Baths Can Delay Aging
According to dermatologists, taking baths can reduce aging and adult acne.
Why? Baths help lower cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that can increase acne and induce premature aging.
In order to get the full benefit with regard to cortisol, you have to make sure to moisturize fully after your bath, so your skin doesn't get dehydrated.
2. Baths Relieve Sore Muscles
Many of us know that heat is a great solution when our muscles are sore.
As Medical News Today explains, applying heat to inflamed or sore muscles can help your muscles relax.
In a bath, you are fully submerged in warm water, which relieves the muscles throughout your body. Additionally, bath additives such as Epsom salt can help relieve aches and pains as well.
3. Baths Are Just As Clean As Showers
A lot of people feel that baths are somehow "dirtier" than showers since the water isn't draining, but this actually isn't true.
According to Hygiene Expert, showers are better than baths only when you're dirty or sweaty from being outdoors or exercising.
If you're just washing off from a normal day, a bath will get you just as clean as a shower. Plus, the steam from a bath can open up your pores and release the dirt.
4. Baths Can Lower Blood Sugar Levels
If your doctor has ever told you to watch your blood sugar levels and try to keep them low, baths may be a great option for you.
Scientists in the U.K. recently discovered that taking a hot bath can actually reduce your blood sugar levels. Our blood sugar rises after we eat, and the amount it rises is one of the risk markers for diabetes, so keeping your blood sugar down can be really beneficial to your health.
Obviously, baths should not replace healthy eating and a good exercise regimen, but it can be a great addition!
5. Baths Are Good For Your Skin
Hot water is known to dehydrate your skin, so many people think showers are better than baths in the skin department, but that's actually not the case.
Your body has natural oils that it needs, and both showers and baths can strip your body of these nourishing oils. The difference between the two bathing methods is that you can put additives — like essential oils, mineral salts, bath bombs, oatmeal, honey, etc. — into your bath.
These additional bath time ingredients can moisturize and replenish your skin. Just don't forget to slather on the lotion to lock in the moisture when you get out of the tub!
6. Baths Are Good Stress-Relievers
Many adults take baths for one reason: stress relief.
Sitting in a bath forces you to stop multitasking and just take a few moments for yourself.
According to TubYoga, increasing your body temperature can improve circulation, calm your nervous system, detoxify your body, and release endorphins. These endorphins make you feel good and can get rid of the stress that builds up throughout the day.
Plus, you can light fragrant candles or drip essential oils into the bath for some at-home aromatherapy.
7. Baths Are Heart-Healthy
Baths have been proven to lower blood pressure, which decreases stress on the heart and the cardiovascular system.
According to a study published in The Journal of Physiology, a warm bath can improve cardiovascular health in a variety of ways, including lower blood pressure, increased blood vessel dilation, decreased arterial stiffness, and more.
Just be sure to keep the temperature mild, because too much time soaking in very hot water can ramp up your heart rate — and make you pruny!
Yay, Baths!
I, for one, can't wait to get home tonight and run myself a nice hot bath!
Are there any benefits to baths that we left off this list? Let us know in the comments below!
And if you love taking baths, please SHARE this article with your friends and family!
