Water composes the major proportion of all living things,
including the human body. The right water balance in the body is essential for
the healthy circulation of blood, the function of every cell in the body, and
the maintenance of correct osmotic pressure and electrolyte balance.
Water in food and drink is necessary to bulk out stools and
prevent constipation, and to flush wastes and toxins out through the skin and
urinary system. Plenty of water to drink is vital during a fever, or in
diarrhoea and vomiting, to prevent dehydration. After a heavy drinking session,
flush your system with as much water as possible to avoid a hangover. Hot water
sipped slowly will often relieve hiccoughs, indigestion, and wind, and a drink
of water when feeling faint can act as stimulant to the heart. “Hard” water,
containing dissolved calcium and magnesium salts may protect against heart
disease.
Bathing in varying temperatures of water, fresh or salt, is
a stimulating experience for the whole body, improving the function of the skin
and helping it to eliminate wastes via the pores. Cold baths stimulate the
lungs and circulation, increase vitality, enhance resistance to infection by
increasing the white blood cell count, an even aid fertility by raising sex
hormone levels.
Tepid baths, on the other hand, are used therapeutically for
30 minutes to raise low blood pressure and calm nerves. Warm baths relieve muscle
tension, aching, and cystitis, and are very relaxing and restring. Avoid
over-hot baths as they stress the heart and increase the pulse. Steam, however,
when inhaled, is excellent for sore throats and laryngitis, and is often the
best cure for croup.
Tip: A good way to wake yourself up in the
morning is to take a cold bath. Then dry yourself vigorously and dress quickly,
and you should feel a warm afterglow. Not recommended for the sick, old, or
very young.
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