The right way of bathing

Bathing involves immersing or washing the body in water for cleaning, relaxation, or ritual purposes. It typically uses water along with soap or cleansing agents to eliminate dirt and impurities. Bathing can be done in bathtubs, showers, natural water bodies, or public baths. Benefits include promoting hygiene by removing dirt and bacteria, providing relaxation and stress relief, offering therapeutic advantages through special baths with healing properties, serving as a social or cultural activity, and symbolizing purification in some religious practices. The environmental impact of bathing is significant, especially in water-scarce regions, making water conservation essential. People are being urged to take shorter showers and minimize water waste. There is a rising trend towards using natural, eco-friendly bathing products that avoid harmful chemicals, indicating a move towards sustainable practices. In India, ritual bathing holds religious importance, with pilgrims visiting sacred rivers like the Ganges, particularly during festivals like Kumbh Mela, for communal baths believed to cleanse and purify. Additionally, regular bathing is important for disease prevention in densely populated areas. There are some rules one should follow while taking a bath. Let’s discuss them in detail.

1. Eliminate the use of hot water: Hot water can cause dryness and irritation by stripping the skin of natural oils, especially for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema. It poses risks of burns and scalds that damage the skin. Additionally, it can increase heart rate due to blood vessel dilation, possibly leading to dizziness or fainting, particularly in those with heart issues. This dilation can lower blood pressure, causing light-headedness. For individuals with heat-sensitive conditions, hot water can aggravate symptoms like redness and inflammation. It may worsen varicose veins by increasing blood flow and pressure. Prolonged exposure risks overheating and dehydration, and pregnant women are advised against hot baths as excessive heat may affect fetal development, particularly in the first trimester. For best results, use room temperature water for bathing.
2. The soap rule: When bathing, apply soap to areas prone to sweat, dirt, and bacteria. Clean hands thoroughly, especially under nails and between fingers. Use a gentle cleanser for the face, avoiding regular body soap. Wash armpits and the groin area gently with appropriate products. Clean between the toes and soles of feet, as well as the chest and back, focusing on sweaty or dirty areas. Use a mild soap, as strong ones can kill even good bacteria, which may enhance the growth of bad bacteria. Also, harsh soap dries up your skin. Take a small washcloth, wet it with water, and gently rub the whole body in a circular motion. Rinse off all soap thoroughly to avoid residue. Many people still use fresh milk, besan (chickpea flour), curd, turmeric, and honey instead of using soap as a natural cleanser.
3. Hairwash: The frequency of hair wash depends on your hair texture, hair condition, lifestyle, etc. Some may wash their hair daily while others wash it 3-4 times a week. Daily hair washing is not necessary. Frequent washing of hair can strip the scalp of its natural oils, leading to dryness and flakiness. This loss of moisture results in dry, brittle hair that is more susceptible to breakage and split ends. Additionally, overwashing can cause product build-up, which may irritate the scalp and result in dandruff or dermatitis. Using shampoos with harsh ingredients can further disrupt the scalp’s natural balance and cause irritation. Always use a mild shampoo with natural ingredients.
4. Overbathing: Frequent bathing can strip the skin of its natural oils, resulting in dryness, irritation, and flakiness. This depletion of oils affects skin hydration and protection. Overbathing can lead to increased sensitivity, redness, and irritation. It can also disrupt the skin barrier, increasing vulnerability to infections and environmental damage. Additionally, excessive bathing can promote bacterial or fungal infections, especially when unclean water is used or the skin is not dried properly. It is best to bathe for less than 15 minutes to cleanse and hydrate the skin without overwashing. Take a bath twice a day if necessary. The best time for a bath is during sunrise and sunset.
5. Never bath after meals- Bathing, especially in hot water, may reroute blood flow from the digestive system to the skin, potentially hindering digestion and causing discomfort. Hot water can influence digestion by changing the stomach and intestinal temperature, though evidence is limited. Bathing shortly after eating might lead to nausea or discomfort, particularly with vigorous movement. While there’s little scientific backing for avoiding baths after meals, many people prefer to wait 30 minutes to an hour, especially after heavy meals. Listening to your body is important; if you experience discomfort after eating and bathing, it is advisable to wait before bathing.

-Triparna