In today’s fast-paced world, many people struggle with fatigue and poor circulation due to excessive workloads and stress, leading to swelling and dull skin, making self-care difficult. In particular, frequent swelling in the lower body, hands, and feet can lead to weight gain over time. If getting professional massages or engaging in regular exercise is not an option, taking a simple half-bath at home can be an effective alternative.

What Are the Benefits of a Half Bath (Half Sauna)?

A half-bath is a bathing method in which only the lower body, below the navel, is immersed in warm water. While taking a half bath(half sauna), those experiencing shoulder and neck pain can benefit from gently leaning forward or backward and massaging the affected areas.

This practice is especially beneficial for individuals suffering from menstrual cramps, cold hands and feet, abdominal chill, lower back pain, stiff shoulders, insomnia, or prostate issues. By warming the lower body, it helps remove internal coldness from both the upper and lower body, promotes blood vessel dilation, and relaxes muscles.

Additionally, the warm water opens up pores, allowing toxins and impurities to be expelled through sweat, contributing to healthier skin. Improved blood circulation from a half-bath can also aid in weight management. Adding essential oils, rose petals, pine needles, or green tea to the bathwater enhances the experience, providing benefits such as relaxation, hydration, and skin-brightening effects.

A half-bath also helps calm the central nervous system while regulating the autonomic nervous system. This improves blood circulation, promotes sweating, and enhances energy metabolism, ultimately leading to better sleep.

How to Take a Half Bath (Half Sauna) Properly

For optimal results, the water temperature should be slightly above body temperature, around 37–39°C (98.6–102.2°F), and the bath should last for about 20–30 minutes. Staying in the water for more than 30 minutes may cause excessive fluid loss, leading to an imbalance in the body due to excessive salt depletion. It is recommended to take a half-bath in the evening, two to three times a week. Drinking a glass of water before bathing helps facilitate toxin elimination. However, it is best to avoid taking a half-bath on a full stomach, as it may cause discomfort and shortness of breath.

For individuals with weaker physical conditions, high blood pressure, or diabetes, limiting the bath to around 10 minutes is advisable. While a moderate half-bath can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering blood pressure and promoting relaxation, prolonged exposure to warm water may cause blood pressure spikes or even lead to shock. After finishing a half-bath, it is important to let the body cool down naturally instead of exposing it to air conditioning or direct fan airflow, as this could diminish its effectiveness.

Source: 건강을 위한 첫걸음 하이닥(www.hidoc.co.kr)