The European system of hydrotherapy was first introduced to the United States in 1844 by the founder of Natural Hygiene, Dr. Joel Shew.

Dr. Shew later enhanced water therapy by focusing on its other aspects like fresh air, lots of sunshine, a good diet plan, and an exercise routine. In 1853 he established the College of Hygiene Therapy.

Advocates for water healing believed in and strictly adhered to personal habits such as diet, dress, clean water, fresh air, exercise, sunshine, and herbs as a means of cleansing their bodies.

Using water as a means of staying cleansing the pores, relaxing and releasing toxins has actually been an accepted method of healing and cleansing and detoxifying the body for thousands of years.

Jacuzzis, hot tubs, and whirlpools are not new inventions of the 21st century. The ancient Egyptians used forms of hydrotherapy thousands of years ago. They knew that water helps relax and soothe aching muscles and ease the pain of arthritis.

Later, during the Roman era, spas and hot mineral springs were a common way for people to cleanse their bodies.

You, too, have used this form of healing at one time or another. You may not have been aware of it, though, because this alternative therapy covers such a broad variety of treatments.

Have you ever treated a burn with cold water, taken a hot shower or bath for an aching back or sore muscles? Have you ever used hot or cold compresses, soaked in a sitz bath, or enjoyed a spa wrap?

All of these water treatments are forms of hydrotherapy.

There are very few risks to using this therapy, but you should take precautions against over-heating. Although herbs and oils can be added to enhance your treatment, it is possible that they can cause skin irritations because warm water opens the pores of the skin, so use them in moderation.

Ahhh, there is nothing like a hot bubble bath, the scent of which fills the entire house with a peaceful, pleasing aroma long after you have emerged out of its cleansing waters!

Pregnant women should always check with their physicians before trying therapies that involve excessive heat, herbs and oils.

To find more information about this alternative therapy, and ways to enhance treatments using herbs and aromatherapy oils, please visit the links provided below.

Book Store

Products Store

Aromatherapy Career

Dreaming Earth Botanicals - Therapeutic Grade SomaTherapy Essential Oils, aromatherapy blends, diffusers, massage oils, lotions and other aromatherapy products.

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