The Origin and Practice of Hydrotherapy
The use of water to maintain, to restore ones health, and for revitalization is known as hydrotherapy. Treatments include everything from saunas, to sitz baths, to steam rooms, and to the use of hat and cold compresses. During the 19th Century a monk from Bavaria, Sebastian Kneipp, discovered the effects of using water to cure diseases and to eliminate toxins, or waste from ones body. He is said to be the father of modern hydrotherapy. Throughout Asia and Europe, going to the mineral and hot springs has always been a common practice. And now in the United States, as more people are seeking the care of naturopathic doctors and holistic approaches to health, more people are discovering what these other cultures have known for years, and that is that water heals. Some are going to spas or to the offices of physical therapists, while others are purchasing hot tubs from companies such as choosehottubsdirect.com, and practice self care in their own homes.
Physiological reactions to hot and cold are obvious, as hot tends to relax one and make them sleepy, and cold serves to invigorate and to wake up the body. Heat dilates the vessels, while cold constricts them. Alternating between the two serves to create a pumping affect, moving the blood through the body faster, thus decreasing swelling of injured areas while stimulating circulation and aiding in the elimination of toxins. Dry heat, such as in a Turkish steam bath, involve the use of either hot or cold compresses which cover the body. Many colds and cases of respiratory or sinus infections, bronchitis or skin infections are treated in this manner. This has been shown to not only reduce the symptoms and provide relief, but to shorten the duration time of the illness as well. Sitz baths are also used for various infections, and have been shown to decrease the severity and the occurrence of such discomforting ailments as hemorrhoids or Premenstrual syndrome. In all, choosing to bring a hot tub or spa into ones home is making the conscious choice to take better care and control over ones health in the long run.
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- Gifts of the Present
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- Relaxing Effects of Hot Tubs and Spas
- The Practice and Importance of Knowing Your Customer
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