Does A Warm Bath Before Bed Improve Sleep?
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for staying healthy and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Taking a warm bath before going to bed can help with falling asleep and getting a restful night’s sleep. Research has found that warm baths can relieve stress and relax the body, helping people to fall asleep more easily. Additionally, taking a warm bath can reduce symptoms of insomnia, enhance sleep quality, and reduce anxiety.
Apart from just helping people fall asleep faster, a warm bath before bed can also be beneficial for various physical and psychological conditions. Studies suggest that the temperature of the water can be beneficial for people suffering from chronic pain, skin issues, or muscle tension. It is also believed that a warm bath before bedtime helps counteract the release of cortisol, reducing stress levels, and making it easier to drift off into a deep sleep.
Getting a warm bath before bed can be a great way to relax and prepare yourself for sleep. Based on research, there may be a variety of physical and psychological benefits associated with taking a warm bath. This practice can help reduce stress, interference with sleep, and clear up skin problems. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to introduce a warm bath into your pre-bedtime routine.
How Warm Should The Bath Be For Better Sleep?
How warm is the bath should depend on the individual’s needs and preferences. When taking a warm bath before going to bed, the water should generally be warm and comfortable. Research has shown that a bath temperature of between 104 to 109 degrees Fahrenheit (40 to 43 degrees Celsius) can be beneficial for improving sleep. Higher temperatures can put too much strain on the body, making it harder to fall asleep. Therefore, it is best to stick to the 104-109 degree range as this temperature can also help reduce cortisol levels.
Additionally, the duration of the bath also matters. Taking a bath that lasts for 15 minutes is sufficient for preparing the body for sleep. Any longer than that and you may end up overstaying and making it harder to fall asleep. Therefore, it’s important to set an alarm and keep track of the time it takes to take the bath.
Potential Benefits From Taking A Warm Bath Before Bedtime
Below are some of the benefits associated with taking a warm bath before going to bed:
- Helps reduce stress levels and relax the body, making it easier to fall asleep.
- Can reduce symptoms of insomnia and improve sleep quality.
- Can help reduce cortisol levels, decreasing stress.
- Helps alleviate chronic pain, skin problems, and muscle tension.
- Can improve heartbeat and blood circulation.
Conclusion
Taking a warm bath before bedtime can be beneficial for physical and mental health. It is especially recommended for those suffering from insomnia or chronic pain conditions. Although research results prove the benefits of a warm bath, it is essential to make sure the water isn’t too hot and the bath doesn’t last too long. Also, it is recommended to set a timer to keep track of the time you spend in the warm bath.