Water As A Healing Agent

Simply stated, hydrotherapy refers to the use of water, in its various forms and temperatures, to help relieve pain and musculoskeletal disorders.

Here I will show you how your bath water, at the correct temperature, can heal or speed up the healing process. I’m confident you will find the information both useful and interesting, and I hope it will give you a little extra incentive to try this wonderful experience at least once a week.

Since time immemorial, humans have always tried to find out the secrets of curing suffering and disease through the use of “special waters”. The sacred wells, those thermal springs and pools, are perhaps the most ancient healing centers. From a scientific point, we know that hydrotherapy baths (baths with the purpose of healing) can provide relief from muscular pains due to cramps or spasms. They also have the ability to promote relaxation, recovery and reduce nervous stress. They can clear up skin eruptions and edema, increase circulation throughout the body, and also soften connective tissues (more about this further down the page).

Now a few words about water as a healing agent...

Water is a special type of system that delivers nutrients and removes toxins. Its thermal qualities elicit flow and movement. The heat of a hydrotherapy bath, coupled with the right minerals and herbal additives, can provide powerful relief.
Did you know that collagen tissue becomes softer at 110-112 degrees Fahrenheit? This fact, coupled with manipulation of the affected body parts (massage), can bring about excellent, long-lasting relief.
For those afflicted by skin eruptions, a full or local hot bath will actually draw out exudates and promote the resolution of skin infections, boils, etc.
I will now provide you with some guidelines for immersion baths temperatures. Immersion baths are those where the body is completely submerged in water (keep your head out!). Local baths are used for certain parts of the body, for example, soaking your hand just past the wrist, or soaking your feet only, etc. nnnn!!!!!! PLEASE NOTE: Consult your physicia
BEFORE embarking on hydrotherapy that requires very hot or very cold temperatures!! This is especially important if you suffer from any kind of circulatory problem, diabetes, high blood pressure. Let your medical practitioner know what you intend to do, and remind him/her (in case they forget) of all medications you take, including over the counter medications. So, even if you believe you have NO health problem, inform your practitioner. !!!!!!
Too hot: ABOVE 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Too cold: BELOW 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
Very hot: 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit. Limit to 10 minutes at the most. This type may not be suitable for people with cardiovascular disorders! HYPERTHERMIA WARNING.
Hot: 100-105 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the “endurable” temperature range for most hot soak requirements. Up to 30 minutes.
Warm: 98-100 degrees Fahrenheit. This is ideal for herbal baths. You may enjoy the experience for 30 minutes.
Neutral: 90-98 degrees Fahrenheit. These baths will produce heating reflex. Limit to 10 minutes.
Cool: 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Only 5 minutes at the most, please. Used for heating reflex.
Cold: 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. These will produce a dramatic body heating reflex. Should NOT last longer than 30 seconds. HYPOTHERMIA WARNING.

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