1. Water stimulates your parasympathetic nervous system
The body's parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for our 'rest & digest' response. When your body goes into this mode, your heart rate slows, your blood pressure is lower, and everything relaxes. This is why a swim in the sea or the pool creates a sense of calm. Next time you feel overwhelmed, try getting in a cool shower - it makes all the difference. At a pinch, even just drinking a glass of water can do the trick.
2. The susurrus of pink noise is incredibly soothing
The beautiful word 'susurrus' is an onomatopoeic word that refers to whispering or rustling sounds. This includes the sound spectrum of running and moving bodies of water, such as rivers or the ocean. That gentle sound of waves coming to the shore, or water running over pebbles is referred to as 'pink noise'. This particular type of sound reduces the difference between a natural background hum and loud, jarring noises. As such, it helps our brains to relax, and is said to aid in restful sleep.
3. Negative ions boost serotonin release
The air around waterfalls, beaches, oceans are charged with plenty of negative ions, which are said to purify the air, increase the flow of oxygen to the brain and increase serotonin release, which alleviates depression and stress.
4. Water immersion balances your hormones
Catecholamines are hormones that govern our bodies' fight or flight response. These are released whenever you feel stressed. The good news is that as soon as you go beneath water, your body signals your endocrine systems to balance out the catecholamines, which is why you feel so zen underwater.
5. Steam rooms aid lymph & blood circulation
Natural hot springs have drawn humans since the dawn of time, and Finnish saunas have been around since at least the first century. The steam bath was also a health-boosting staple throughout the Roman Empire. This is because a session in a steam room can aid in relaxation and soothe aching muscles by stimulating lymph and blood circulation.
We offer a variety of hydro-therapy options at Lyftaal that can be enjoyed on its own, or added before or after another treatment. Ask your therapist about it - our Uplifting Banya Ritual is a firm favourite among many of our returning clients.
