Bathing has long been more than a ritual of cleansing. Across centuries and cultures, immersion in water has been used as a powerful tool for healing, restoration and connection, both to ourselves and to nature. Today, as self-care becomes an essential part of modern life, bathing has once again taken its place as a therapeutic wellness practice.
Bathing for wellbeing through the years
Bathing as a wellness practice dates back thousands of years and has been deeply rooted in cultures across the world. In Ancient Egypt, bathing was seen as both a physical and spiritual ritual, believed to purify the body and mind. Oils, botanicals and mineral-rich waters were often used to nourish the skin and support overall health.
The Ancient Greeks were among the first to recognise the therapeutic benefits of warm water, using baths to ease muscle fatigue, support recovery and promote balance within the body. This philosophy was later adopted and expanded by the Romans, whose elaborate bathhouses became centres of wellbeing.
In Japan, the tradition of bathing in natural hot springs, or onsen, has been practised for centuries. Heated by geothermal activity and rich in minerals, these waters were prized for their ability to soothe aching bodies, improve circulation and calm the mind. There are approximately 25,000 hot springs throughout Japan and traditionally, onsen were located outdoors, although many places now have indoor bathing facilities.
Across coastal regions of Northern Europe, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, seawater and seaweed bathing emerged as a natural form of therapy. Drawing on the mineral-rich ocean, these practices were believed to relieve joint pain, support skin health and restore strength after illness.
The benefits of bathing
Beyond relaxation, regular bathing can support both physical and mental wellbeing.
- Mental Health Boost - Bathing yourself in warm water can help calm the nervous system, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve overall mood.
- Improves Sleep Quality - As evening approaches, our core body temperature naturally drops, triggering the release of melatonin - the hormone responsible for sleep. A warm bath gently raises body temperature, and when you step out, the rapid cooling stimulates further melatonin production.
- Good for Your Heart - Warm water causes blood vessels to dilate, improving circulation and temporarily lowering blood pressure in a way similar to gentle exercise.
- Soothes Aching Muscles - The heat of a warm bath helps relax tight, tired muscles and ease joint discomfort. Using ishga Muscle Recovery Oil can further support muscle and joint health thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
The benefits of seaweed bathing
Seaweed bathing is one of nature’s most powerful wellness rituals, drawing directly from the healing power of the ocean.
- Deeply Moisturising - Amino acids found in seaweed help prevent water loss, allowing the skin to retain moisture and maintain a healthy appearance. When placed in warm water, seaweed releases mineral-rich oils while heat opens the pores, allowing the skin to absorb vitamins and nutrients more effectively.
- Naturally Detoxifying - Vitamin-rich seaweed contains polysaccharides which bind to harmful metals like mercury, lead and cobalt. By reducing their damaging effects, seaweed bathing helps minimise inflammation, improve elasticity and support healthier, more resilient skin.
- Supports Skin Conditions - For those with psoriasis or eczema, mineral-rich seaweed can help soothe dry, irritated skin. Fucoidan, found within the cell walls of seaweed, has also demonstrated the ability to support skin healing and tissue repair.
Experience a seaweed bath with an ishga spa partner
We have several spa partners that offer wet seaweed baths - Kimpton Blythswood Square, The Coniston, and Turnberry. Each location combines luxurious surroundings with the healing power of Hebridean seaweed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in a centuries-old wellness tradition.
