Get a Winter Glow with Hydrotherapy

One of the best ways I’ve ever ended a hectic exam-period was by going to the female-only hydrotherapy spa; Body Blitz!

Scandinavian (Hydrotherapy) Spas involve putting the body through a series of hot and cold cycles (a sauna/warm bath followed by a roll in the snow or a plunge in a cold tub).  This hot-and-cold hydrotherapy technique helps to improve circulation, which strengthens the immune system, circulates lymph and can leave your skin looking bright and invigorated, even in the dull of winter.  Here’s how to create a Scandinavian Spa at home, in your shower.

Alternate Hot and Cold Showers:

Alternate showers increase circulation, boost energy, help the body detoxify by moving lymph and strengthen the immune system, preventing unwanted colds and flu during the winter months.  Here’s how to do them at home:

• Start with your normal shower routine at your preferred temperature, the shower should be comfortably warm.
• Turn your shower dial to Hot (98-104 degrees Fahrenheit).  The temperature should be hot enough but still tolerable. Part of your skin may turn red.  Stay under the hot water for 1-2 minutes, making sure all parts of body are exposed to the water, especially your head.

•  Now turn your shower dial to Cold (55-65 degrees Fahrenheit).  The temperature should feel tolerable but fairly cold and uncomfortable.  Stay under the cold water for 30 seconds.
•  Repeat the hot and cold cycle 3 to 8 times.
• Always finish with a cold water cycle.
• At the end of the shower, towel dry and keep warm to avoid chill.

This technique may feel uncomfortable at first, but after a few cycles, you begin to welcome the cold water’s revitalizing feel and the practice becomes as natural as having a shower the regular way.

*This article is not meant to diagnose, treat or prevent illness or disease.  Please visit your naturopathic doctor for your individualized hydrotherapy treatment and to learn other ways to prevent and treat cold and flu.