A Japanese Bath - Have You Discovered the Relaxation?

What about bath time? Everyone takes the time to bathe or take a shower, which is potentially one of the most relaxing activities known to mankind. For millennia, mankind has used water therapy to calm the nerves, relax the body, and cleanse the spirit. From ancient hot springs to modern spas, it is apparent that water in one form or another aids relaxation. The ancient Japanese discovered this with their invention of the deep soaking bath, in which the bather remains seated in a tub of very hot water. The result of bathing in a Japanese bath is a relaxation experience like you wouldn't believe.

Although meditation, yoga, a musical instrument, and extra sleep may all have some relaxation power, nothing beats the relaxing experience of a Japanese bathtub. Japanese baths differ from traditional baths in that they are much deeper. 35 inches is the normal depth of a Japanese bath. The deeper design allows for seated total-body immersion, while at the same time maintaining high water temperatures for a longer time. As the body soaks in hot water, the higher temperature allows for increased blood flow to aching joints, reducing inflammation and pain. With reduced joint and bone tension, many bathers experience far fewer headaches. Hot water releases the tension within the muscles, even penetrating to the deep skeletal muscles for an incredible relaxation experience.

The Japanese bath is not merely a muscle-relaxing experience. Mind and body are inextricably linked. When the muscles relax, it allows the mind to relax as well. When you unwind mentally, your muscles follow suit. It is one of the uncanny properties of water and immersion that allows for this mind/body relaxation. You've probably experienced something along these lines when you go swimming, or if you've ever tried a swim spa or hot tub. In Japanese tradition, bathing is one component in a process of creating inner tranquility. Relaxing in a Japanese bath gives the user an immediate sense of peace and well being.

A Japanese bath is one of the few ways that you can find total relaxation without having to spend enormous amounts of time and money. At the end of a busy or stressful day, simply turn on the faucet, slip in your Japanese bath, and let your worries wash away.