Nothing relaxes the mind and body quite like a soak in a hot bath, and now it seems taking baths may be better for your health than a daily shower.
Scientists in America have discovered that many shower heads can deliver a spray of disgusting bacteria which can actually harm your health. Tests at the University of Colorado at Boulder found that a third of shower devices contained significant amounts of Mycobacterium avium, bacteria known to cause lung disease.
The bug was particularly proficient in plastic shower heads, and infects via inhalation of air-borne water droplets when the shower is turned on. In some cases, levels of Mycobacterium avium were 100 times higher than levels found in average household water supplies.
This bug shouldn't cause too many problems for most healthy adults, but those who are in at-risk groups and with weakened immune systems such as old people, pregnant women and those with other illnesses can pick up an infection.
Baths aren't proven to cause any such risk of bacterial contamination. So are we about to witness a national return to bathing? Showering dominates in a time-poor Britain always in a rush, but making time for a soak provides glorious reflective 'you' time that has numerous psychological benefits, relaxing your mind at the same time as your muscles.
Organic, sweeping lines are fashionable in bathroom design right now and, if you have the space, splashing out on a statement freestanding bath in the centre of your bathroom will make it look sublime and give an air of extravagance and grandeur. Large mirrors in the bathroom will give the illusion of space and inspire a more luxurious feel to the room, as well as being handy for grooming.
Continue the opulence around the room; have a super-soft rug to step on to after bathing, and use heated towel rails to warm pure white fresh towels to step into, evoking a spa-like feel. What better way to relax after a hard day at work? Pour in some beautifully scented oils, close the door and drift into a Zen-like state.
Mobility problems lead many people to shy away from bathing and they choose to simply shower instead, but there are now lots of walk-in baths on the market that offer the option of a delicious soak. These tend to require slightly more water than a conventional bath, so check before installing that your hot water tank has the capacity to fill such a bath.
It could be time to return to bathing; a low-cost, indulgent luxury that can be enjoyed every day of the week!
Thomas Pretty is a freelance writer with many years of experience writing about lifestyle trends. Find out more about baths at http://www.wibco.com/
