THE MORNING TUB

Timaru Herald, Volume CXL, Issue 20282, 4 December 1935, Page 12

THE MORNING TUB

Many doctors advise all who can do so to take a cold bath every morning. There are, of course, many who cannot stand a cold bath. Those who suffer from rheumatism or gout, whose hearts are weak, or who have high blood pressure, are not advised to go in for cold baths, but for the healthy and strong it is a splendid tonic, stimulating the nerves, bracing the muscles, toning up the skin, and giving a fresh, invigorating feeling. Even the healthy, however, are not advised to plunge suddenly into a cold bath if they have never been accustomed to it. It is best to start by having a sponge-down in lukewarm water after a warm bath, then a cold sponge, and, finally, a cold bath. In this way children can be accustomed to having cold baths. Start in the summer, and you may be able to carry on until the very cold weather. Many babies are brought up to have a daily cold sponge, and they appear to enjoy it. It is declared by some doctors that the man or waman who makes a daily habit of it does not catch colds or chills easily. If your skin does not feel warm and glowing after a cold bath and a brisk rub down with a rough towel give it up. To get the best out of a cold bath, follow it up with a few physical “jerks” and some deep breathing exercises in front of an open window.