Physical bathing refers to the use of water temperature to stimulate the body, including cold and hot baths. Regular foot baths with cold water can dilate the veins in the limbs, not only improving the body's adaptability to the external environment and enhancing the immune system, but also delaying degenerative joint diseases in the lower limbs through vascular stimulation.
Cold Water Foot Bath
Cold water foot baths can be done all year round, especially in summer and winter. In hot summer weather, soaking the feet in cold water can provide a refreshing and comfortable feeling, as well as maintain the firmness and elasticity of the skin. In cold winter weather, a cold water foot bath can cause the blood vessels to contract, redirecting some blood flow to internal organs, thereby promoting their metabolism and function.
A cold water foot bath is not simply soaking the feet in cold water, but there are specific steps to follow: first, pour cold water into a basin and immerse the feet, ensuring that the feet are fully submerged. Then, perform a stationary stepping exercise. After a cold water foot bath, it is important to immediately dry the feet and vigorously rub them to generate warmth and prevent discomfort and illness caused by cold exposure. This method is generally suitable for young people or those with a strong yang constitution.
Hot Water Foot Bath
The most common type of physical bath is the hot water foot bath. A hot water foot bath involves adding an appropriate amount of foot bath liquid or herbal medicine to hot water and then soaking the feet. The temperature of the hot water foot bath should be maintained at 40-50°C, and each session should last for 10-15 minutes. The duration can be adjusted based on individual circumstances.
Regular hot water foot baths can stimulate the skin locally through the physical and chemical factors of the medicine and water, promoting blood circulation and metabolism. By adjusting the meridians and reflex zones, hot water foot baths can improve organ function, enhance physical health, and treat diseases.
