It is not just Ayurveda that glorifies the work. The primeval Greeks and Romans, for example, treated the bath as a curing activity and ablution remains the precondition for prayer or meditation in many cultures.Bathing has always enjoyed the status of a sacred activity in Indian life as far back as Vedic civilization. It was in India that European colonizers in the 18th century learnt of and adopted the conception of a daily bath.
HOW IT HELPS US
Increase circulation, raises energy levels and refreshes the mind
Washes away dirt, sweat and environmental toxins
Relaxes tense muscles
Improves hunger
Promotes healthier sleep
Keeps away diseases
Balances the emotions, the mind and the nervous system
Adds a healing dimension
Improves blood circulation
Enhances the complexion
To approach ‘snanna’ in Ayurvedic perspective, practice the following:
Bathe in the morning after a regular exercise, yoga or massage. The second time is before dinner but never do away with bathing.
Never take a bath after eating or with a full stomach
Use tepid water for the hand and neck
Use scrubs containing neem, sandal, turmeric and tulsi extracts
Always wear a fresh set of clothes after bathing
You can enhance the benefits of regular bathing by giving yourself a daily massage with warm oil earlier. They leave your skin soft and smooth. Use a plain scrub made of moong oil for exfoliation.
To stimulate the other senses during the bathing experience and increase the healing benefits of snaana, aromatherapy oils can be added to the bath water or infused in the bathroom. However, do not use synthetic or harsh scents.
When bathing children or infants, Ayurveda suggests an ‘avagaha’ that is tub-bath with water infused with antiseptic and perfumed herbs such as neem, tulsi and sandal.
Regular bathing will also reinforce the effects of massage on infants and make sure sound sleep.
