If you’d rather be soaking in a hot bath at your home than getting your cardio in with a walk in the park or around the block, you might be in luck. According to People Bodies, getting a hot soak could burn some large amount of calories, all while you enjoy the latest novel from the warmth of your own home.
Researchers at Loughborough University desired to see what would happen when they raised the core body temperature by only one degree. Participants took a one-hour bath at 104 degrees Fahrenheit. They also rode a bicycle for one hour.
Some of the outcomes weren’t terribly surprising. The participants burned out more calories riding the bicycle. But, researchers did discover that soaking in a hot bath for an hour burned out 130 calories, the equivalent of taking a 30-minute walk.
So, before you grab your favorite book and head for a soak, check out some other benefits of relaxing in some hot bubbles:
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1. Get more sleep
Add a few drops of lavender oil to the bathwater and prepare yourself for a comfortable night between the sheets. Have you ever gone swimming and then seemed exhausted afterward? One reason: significant changes in body temperature.
A similar thing happens when you take a bath, according to Natural Sleep Medicine. The energy your body really uses to bring get back to room temperature will do it easier to conk out.
2. Ease sinus pain
Colds (and usually allergies) are the worst. You can decrease cold and allergy symptoms by soaking in the hot water. Keep the door closed and let the hot steam build up to loosen mucus. Primarily Inspired also suggests adding some bath salts to the water for extra cold-busting power.
3. Improve Blood Flow
Resting on your laurels in a hot bath can promote better blood circulation. Not only is this excellent for sore muscles, but it can increase blood flow to the brain too. If you don’t have time for a bath then sip on some hot tea for similar results.
4. Ease sore muscles
Whether you’re recovering from an injury or an difficult workout session, a hot bath is an excellent way to find relief. The hot water will soothe tightened muscles and increase blood flow (decreasing lactic acid buildup).
Medical News Today said that heat treatment (like a hot bath) is a very useful option for patients with chronic joint pain too.
5. Improve Breathing
Not only is a hot bath healthful when the nose is clogged, taking a hot bath can truly improve lung function. The warm water really set pressure on your chest and can make your oxygen intake to increase while you relaxing.
You should soak in the chest underwater for the best results, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Also, the next time you’re feeling a little guilty for soaking in the tub while the children take a nap, hit that guilt to the curb and remind yourself you’re doing it for your well-being.
RESOURCES PEOPLE, PRIMARILY INSPIRED, & IMAGE CREDIT