How often do you enjoy a hot bath? Do you exercise? Latest research has shown that hot soaks help you burn more calories than doing a cardio.
Researchers at Loughborough University wanted to see what would happen when they raised the core body temperature by one degree. Participants took a one-hour bath in water at 104 degrees Fahrenheit. They also rode a bicycle for one hour. Some of the results weren’t terribly surprising: the participants burned more calories riding the bicycle. However, researchers did discover that soaking in a hot bath for an hour burned 130 calories: the equivalent of taking a 30-minute walk. Can you believe it?
Before you grab your favorite book and head for a soak, check out a few other benefits of relaxing in some hot bubbles:
1. Better sleep
Add a little lavender oil to the bath water and prepare yourself for a cozy night between the sheets. Have you ever gone swimming and then felt exhausted afterward? One reason: major changes in the body temperature. The same thing happens when you take a bath, according to Natural Sleep Medicine. The energy your body uses to bring get back to room temperature will make it easier to conk out.
2. Better circulation
Hot baths are good for your sore muscles and circulation. If you don’t have time for a hot soak, just make yourself a cup of hot tea. Drink herbal teas for added health benefits. Ginger tea is great, and it works best when combined with honey and lemon juice.
3. Ease sinus pain
Colds (and allergies) are the worst! You can ease cold and allergy symptoms by taking a load off and soaking in the hot water. Keep the door closed and let the steam build up to loosen mucus. Primarily Inspired also recommends adding some bath salts to the water for extra cold-busting power.
4. Ease sore muscles
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or an extra-difficult workout session, a hot bath is a great way to find relief. The hot water will ease tightened muscles and increase blood flow (reducing lactic acid buildup). Add in the simple pleasure of soaking in the hot water and you have magic. Medical News Today said that heat therapy (like a hot bath) is a very effective option for patients with chronic joint pain too.
5. Improve Breathing
Not only is a hot bath helpful when the nose is clogged, taking a hot bath can actually improve lung function. The warm water places pressure on your chest and can force your oxygen intake to improve. You should soak in chest deep water for the best results, according to the National Library of Medicine.The next time you’re feeling a little guilty for soaking in the tub while the kids take a nap, kick that guilt to the curb and remind yourself you’re doing it for your health!
References: worthitforyou.com, grandmarecip.com
