Showering is a routine part of our day to day life but still the water temperature we take can have surprising effects on our body and mind. Some support taking hot showers to relax, while others take cold showers to boost up. But is one healthier than the other? Let’s talk about it.
Benefits of Hot Showers
- Hot showers are primarily linked with relaxation and relaxation. The warm water relaxes your muscles and calms you down after a long day at work.
- Relieves Muscle Tension: Heat decreases muscle tension and also relaxes tight muscles, thus perfect after a fitness session or a stressful day at work.
- Reduces Stress: Taking a hot shower feels like mini spa. Warm water calms the nervous system and also aids in reducing anxiety.
- Improve Sleep: A night-time shower with warm water relaxes your body and informs your brain that sleep is coming.
- Clean Skin Better: Open pores in warm water make them effective in stripping away oil and grime.
- Excessive hot water, though, can dehydrate hair and skin. It even makes eczema worse.
Benefits of Cold Showers
- Cold showers are unpleasant, but they also possess several robust health benefits.
- Boosts Energy: Cold water shock wakes you up, increases alertness, and gives you a morning boost.
- Improves Circulation: Cold water tightens your blood vessels, improving blood circulation once re-warmed.
- Improved Immunity: Some studies show cold showers may increase the count of white blood cells, which help your body fight illness.
- Good for Skin and Hair: Cold showers tighten skin and reduce excess oil. It even makes hair appear shinier and less frizzy.
- Avoids Muscle Soreness: Certain athletes take ice baths or cold showers after intense exercise to avoid swelling.
- The only downside is that cold showers may not be ideal for people with heart disease, as the sudden change brings blood pressure up.
When to Choose Hot Showers
- On a stressful day when you want to relax.
- Pre-bedtime to improve sleep quality.
- When you have muscle stiffness or arthritis pain.
- When it is winters to get warm and comfortable.
When to Choose Cold Showers
- When you wake up in the morning, to feel fresh.
- After exercise to reduce sore muscles.
- In summer to cool down your body.
- When you want healthier hair and skin.
Can You Mix Both?
Most experts recommend alternating between cold and hot showers depending on your needs. This method is called contrast showering, alternating between cold and hot water. It improves circulation, relieves fatigue, and enjoys the benefits of both temperatures.
There is no single answer to which is better, hot or cold showers. Both are beneficial for different health purposes. Hot showers are ideal for relaxation, stress reduction, and muscle relaxation. Cold showers are better for energy, immunity, and skin health.
The best method is to listen to your body and choose accordingly. A warm shower will comfort you on certain days, while, on other days, you may like taking a cold shower as the refreshing dose that you desire. For an even mix of routine, you may even switch between the two as per your lifestyle and season.
