The Many (Other) Benefits of a Daily Shower

We've already established that regularly cleansing your body with the right products has numerous benefits for your skin. But did you know that there are many other benefits to a good daily shower beyond hygiene?

You might be surprised to find that you have been completely underestimating your daily shower. These "routine" showers can not only improve your hygiene but improve your physiological and mental health too.

Let's run through some of the most surprising benefits of daily showers, as well as some helpful tips to maximise your shower time for overall improved wellbeing.

Warm showers

Many of us love to reward ourselves with a "spa day" after particularly stressful days. There is something incredibly relaxing about spas that helps banish stress. However, we feel the humble home shower is entirely underrated. A warm shower has similar stress-busting effects as a spa experience - all in the comfort of your own home!

Here are the top benefits of a comforting and relaxing warm shower:

  • Whether you choose to begin or end the day with this ritual is all up to you. However, studies have shown that a warm shower in the evening aids in synchronising our natural circadian rhythm and sleep cycles. Therefore, if you're feeling particularly restless in the evening, a warm shower might be the answer!
  • Warm showers, in particular, help loosen muscles and general physical tension. A more relaxed body can lead to a more relaxed overall you.
  • Warm to hot showers, especially those that produce steam, can aid in decongestion if you've got a stubborn cold. The steam can help open the airways, loosen mucus, and clear your pathways.
  • Using a favourite scented cleanser and listening to soothing music can also create a fuller sensory experience that helps to relax your mind. Think - home spa!

Cold showers

It's great to feel relaxed and pliant, but sometimes you need a little natural boost. Cold showers are your answer, as they have been known to aid in combating depression and feelings of lethargy.

And, as with warm showers, there are mental and physical benefits to the occasional cold water therapy:

  • Cool to cold (generally below 21°C) showers are refreshing and raise alertness levels as blood circulation increases throughout the body. When the skin comes into contact with the water, blood vessels constrict, moving blood flow away from the skin's surface towards blood vessels found in deeper tissues.
  • Need to decrease inflammation and swelling in your joints? A cold shower can help with that!
  • Some studies have shown that melatonin, the hormone associated with sleeping, can decrease due to cold. If you're feeling a little drowsy in the morning, step under a cold spray for an instant pick-me-up!
  • A cold shower releases endorphins which lead to a better sense of wellbeing.
  • Speaking of hormones, a cold shower can also lower cortisol levels in your body. Cortisol is the "stress hormone" and can cause some issues when produced in higher-than-normal amounts.
  • Finally, while not directly related to mental health, colder water temperatures also give the body's metabolism a jump start.

Warm or cold, get under that spray!

Want to get the most benefits from your "home spa"? Consider a cold shower to get your day started and then a warm one in the evening to unwind. If not, choose what feels best for you on any given day and enjoy the time under the soothing spray.

Shower self-care: a full sensory experience

It doesn't matter if you are stressed or feel perfectly fine; small acts of self-love can boost your feeling of wellbeing. Think of showering as an act of self-care rather than a task you need to accomplish.  Engage your senses. Think - home spa!

  • Light up your favourite soy candle. Lavender, jasmine, and vanilla are known as “calming scents” that help you relax, while lemon, peppermint, and cinnamon are used as pick-me-ups for focus and clarity. Trim your candle’s wick and light it up ahead of time, so the smell permeates your bathroom before you begin.
  • Listening to soothing music can also create a fuller sensory experience. Instrumentals and classical music with slower cadences are probably better than blaring rock or death metal.
  • Be mindful and savour each moment. Feel your fingertips rubbing shampoo into your scalp or your hands going over your skin as you lather up. Inhale deeply, exhale deeply. Enjoy each aspect—no thoughts about your to-do lists or tasks or what's still ahead of you. Be in the moment.
  • The simple addition of a body roller to your self-care routine can really elevate your experience. The waterproof devices work perfectly in the shower or even immediately after as you moisturise all over. Rollers help you introduce your skincare products deeper into the skin with less mess. Just make sure that your products do not contain alcohol which could tarnish your roller. And remember to wash your roller immediately after use under running water.

Don't forget that while you're cleansing your body, you are also helping your mind. Here are some extra tips on how to get the most out of your daily shower:

  • Don't shock your system. Ease into warmer and cooler showers and find a comfortable temperature for you. It would be counterproductive for you to stress yourself - and your body - out while doing something meant to help you feel better.
  • There is no need to stick to just one type of shower. Switch it up as needed.
  • Be mindful and savour each moment. Feel your fingertips rubbing shampoo into your scalp or your hands going over your skin as you lather up. Inhale deeply, exhale deeply. Enjoy each aspect—no thoughts about your to-do lists or tasks or what's still ahead of you. Be in the moment.
  • As tempting as staying in there, the ideal showers should not last more than 10 to 15 minutes, especially if using warm to hot water. Too much water can also strip your skin of moisture and natural oils (which is why it's best to moisturise whilst your skin is still damp).
  • It doesn't matter if you are stressed or feel perfectly fine; small acts of self-love can boost your feeling of wellbeing. Think of showering as an act of self-care rather than a task you need to accomplish.

For many people, shower time is one of those rare moments where they are alone, in the comfort of their own company. Use that precious time to relax, re-centre, and recharge!

We hope we shed fresh light on an age-old concept of showering. We wish you de-stressing and soul-soothing showers in the future!