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Water therapy has been around for centuries. Treatment with water goes a long way back. In fact, ancient Romans and Greeks had baths and saunas, where they went to detox and heal themselves. They also drank or bathed in spring and underground water to get cured of maladies. Water is an important ingredient in the traditional Chinese and Native American healing systems. A Bavarian monk, Father Sebastian Kneipp helped re-popularize the therapeutic use of water in the 19th century.

Impact of Hydrotherapy

The recuperative and healing properties of hydrotherapy are based on its mechanical and thermal effects. It exploits the body`s reaction to hot and cold stimuli, to the protracted application of heat, to pressure exerted by the water and to the sensation it gives. The hydrotherapy treatment impacts the nerves under the skin, which further stimulates the immune system.

We know that heat quiets and soothes the body, slowing down the activity of internal organs. Cold, in contrast, stimulates and invigorates, increasing internal activity. So if you are experiencing tense muscles and anxiety from your stress, a hot shower or bath is in order. If you are feeling tired and stressed out, you can take a warm shower or bath followed by a short, invigorating cold shower to help stimulate your body and mind.

When you submerge yourself in a bath, a pool, or a whirlpool, you experience a kind of weightlessness. Your body is relieved from the constant pull of gravity. Water also has a hydrostatic effect. It has a massage-like feeling as the water gently kneads your body. Water, in motion, stimulates touch receptors on the skin, boosting blood circulation and releasing tight muscles.. So hydrotherapy tones up the body, stimulates digestion, blood circulation, and the immune system, and it also relief from pain.
 

Herbal Bath
Herbal baths can be particularly soothing when you are experiencing a period of stress. You can prepare herbal bath by simmering 1/2 cup of herbs in 1 quart of water in a covered pot for fifteen minutes. While the herbs are simmering, take a short shower to cleanse your body. Then fill the tub with hot or warm water. Strain the liquid from the decoction into the bath water, and wrap the herbs in a washcloth. Soak in the tub for at least twenty minutes. Use the "herbal washcloth" to rub over your body. Some of popular bath herbs include lavender, chamomile, linden, rose hip, and peppermint. You can also add some lemon or honey to the herbal bath water for moisturising and soothing your skin as well.