Surely, when you finish your training, the first thing you do is go take a good shower to eliminate sweat and bad smell. But a shower can not only serve to cleanse us, it can also provide benefits to our body depending on the temperature of the water. Are you one of those who loves cold water or do you prefer to notice that it almost burns your skin? Most may decide to use a water temperature depending on the weather outside. That is, cold water in summer and hot water in winter. We go further and below we are going to explain the virtues that each one has so that you finish your training on a high note.
Cold shower
What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think about taking a nice cold shower? Waking up your body! Indeed, cold water awakens our senses and boosts our energy . You can take a normal bath with lukewarm water, and for the last 3-5 minutes, use cold water so the temperature contrast releases bodily fatigue . Furthermore, cold showers have other proven benefits that can complement your workout routine, such as the health benefits of cold showers.
Your circulation and breathing improve considerably from the moment the first jet of water hits you. When the water hits you, your breathing becomes rapid, but if you breathe deeply and steadily, you'll notice the effect is lessened. It's a good idea to incorporate this little trick into your daily routine; your body will better manage extreme situations, and you'll find your bodily functions and metabolism will be boosted.
Of course, your skin and hair will look healthier . Cold showers hydrate your skin and make it look brighter. It will feel refreshed, as will your hair. Hot water promotes split ends and can irritate your scalp. Remember that it's important to wash your hair after working out to prevent damage and keep it clean and healthy after exercise.
Hot shower
Not all the benefits come from cold water; a hot shower after training is almost essential. Water above 35ºC releases muscle tension, giving your muscles a well-deserved relaxation. If you have a good shower head, you can use it as a massager for your back, neck, and shoulders. This is especially useful if you want to avoid skin problems caused by not showering after exercise and take care of your skin.
Nasal congestion is more common in winter, and doctors often recommend steam baths, which are similar to a hot shower. The steam and high temperatures are natural decongestants and can relieve the symptoms of colds or the flu . Try adding essential oils like mint or eucalyptus, and you'll notice a significant improvement in your nasal and respiratory health.
Obviously, hot water provides a much deeper cleanse . The heat dilates your pores, allowing toxins to be eliminated from the body. It's perfect for preventing sweat buildup after a hard workout. You might also be interested in how to care for your hair after exercise to keep it in top condition, especially after physical exertion.
Conclusion
The ideal is to take a shower with both water temperatures. Start with hot water and gradually lower the temperature to end with cold water. Why settle for the benefits of just one when you can have both?
