The Healing Power Of Water

Hydrotherapy Treatment has Brought Relief since Ancient Times

The healing properties of water were recognized by the ancient Egyptians in 2000 BC. The Romans were also strong believers in the power of hydrotherapy. As early as AD 1138 people travelled from all over England to Bath to wash away infirmities.

The ancient tradition of bathing has gradually evolved into several modern treatments called hydrotherapy, a generic term for water therapies which include:

• Water jets
• Underwater massage (Watsu, Jahara Technique)
• Mineral baths (Balneotherapy, Thalassotherapy)
• Whirlpool bath or hot tub
• Jacuzzi
• Cold plunge
• Mineral bath

These treatments use physical water properties, such as temperature and pressure, for therapeutic purposes, to stimulate blood circulation and treat the symptoms of certain diseases.

The Relaxing and Healing Effects of Hydrotherapy

Water is the ubiquitous chemical substance, composed of hydrogen and oxygen, that is essential for the survival of many known forms of life and known as a nature's healer. An aquatic therapy session can:

• Have favorable effects on the skin and muscles
• Calms the internal organs
• Stimulate nerve reflexes on the spinal cord
• Calm the endocrine system

Soaking in warm water will quiet and soothe your body. A dip in cold water, in contrast, will stimulate and invigorate. A soothing and relaxing bath can help counteract stress and its many effects on the body. It is the perfect antidote to a hectic and stressful lifestyle.

Hot Water Immersion is Good for Your Heart and can Lower Blood Pressure, Too

A study at the Mayo Clinic found that soaking in hot water gives many of the health benefits of exercise with less strain on the heart. Immersion in hot water first speeds up the heart to send blood to the surface and disperse extra body heat into the air. But after a few minutes, the warm blood causes the blood vessels to dilate, which lessens resistance to blood flow and lowers the blood pressure.

Water is used for more than just relaxation — it has become known to cure a number of ills. Medical professionals around the globe use the natural hydrotherapy of warm water soaking to:

• Ease anxiety and stress
• Improve sleep and relieve insomnia
• Relieve fibromyalgia and arthritis pain
• Increase injury and surgery healing