Traditionally, hot springs and thermals were utilized to treat conditions, or sick people, Dr. Warner explains.

Today, they are primarily focused on making relatively healthy people healthier.

With that in mind, here are some of the documented positive health outcomes of taking hot baths.

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Photo:Galina Zhigalova / Getty Images

The participants also reported reduced feelings of tension, anger, hostility, depression, and dejection.

It helps your brain slow down and is a great way to take a mindful break.

Thats a good thing, too, because there isnt much out there.

Joints and stiff connective tissues will also feel better after a warm bath.

In addition to pain, bathing can also alleviate other types of muscular discomfort.

One way bathing accomplishes this is by supporting the bodys nightly temperature adjustment.

As that accumulates, it increases your risk of infection.

How, exactly, can you maximize the health benefits of your next bath?

It comes down to factors like timing, temperature, and duration.

How hot is too hot?

Anywhere between 90 and105 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal, Dr. Jacobs says.

Anything warmer will be scalding to the skin and can be damaging to the skin barrier.

You probably dont know the precise temperature of your bathwho does?

But what about days when your schedule is flexible?

Dr. Jacobs recommends taking an evening bath, as it will promote relaxation and better sleep.

The core body temperature must drop by one or two degrees to sleep best, she explains.

Who Should Avoid Hot Baths?

Fill up your tub more than you think.

Keep the bathroom warm.

Awarm towelwill also help smooth the transition out of the tub.

Dim the lights.

Work in some aromatherapy.

Essential oils can be irritating, and no one has studied absorption, he explains.

Stay hydrated (bring some water with you!)

Focus on breathing and unwinding.