natural healing methods 79
Hydrotherapy
Water treatment, or hydrotherapy, is a very useful and natural way of
improving circulation around the body. It complements exercise and
massage but can also act as a substitute for people who are not able to
exercise or cannot obtain massage. Very cold or very hot water or steam
forces the blood to circulate more effectively, which brings nutrients and
oxygen into and out of organs, easing congestion and stagnation.
hot and cold showers
Try a cold shower after a hot shower or bath, adjusting the water slowly
in order to acclimatize yourself. Direct the jet onto the area you wish to
treat; this will encourage circulation and thus facilitate healing. If you do
not have a shower unit, a cheap shower hose that fi ts over the taps will be
adequate. A jug also works if nothing else is available, but the jet from a
shower is far better. After the initial shock and gasp caused by the cold
water, you will get accustomed to it. Start with thirty seconds under each
temperature and build up to seven minutes; always fi nish with cold water.
swimming
Swim whenever you can, in unpolluted sea- or freshwater where possible.
When using swimming pools, be careful of the chlorination as the gas
given off by chlorine is very toxic and will greatly affect those with
allergies or a weakened immune system. Otherwise, wash the chlorine off
afterward with thorough showering, using lavender or other essential oils
to aid the process. Do a smell test afterward. If you can still smell chlorine
on your skin or hair, then return to the shower!
saunas
Saunas encourage perspiration, effectively opening the pores of the skin
and driving water, toxins, and unwanted debris from the body via profuse
sweating. They should not be used by the weak or frail; the very young,
elderly, or pregnant; or people with certain heart conditions or high or
low blood pressure. Frequent showering is vital during sauna sessions;
concentrate the water stream over the top of the head as the skull heats
up tremendously, which can cause nausea or dizziness.
sitz baths
Sitz baths can be hot or cold baths in which the water line reaches the
hips, womb, and ovaries but stays below the kidneys (so as not to chill
them if the water is cold). The navel acts a good guide level. They
encourage circulation of blood and oxygen to the womb and other
79 The Complete Home Guide to Herbs, Natural Healing, and Nutrition