Ayurvedic bathing

If you have studied dinacharya (daily routine), you will know that the habits and routines are very specific and detailed. However, there is a purpose behind each one! 

Bathing (as in a shower or bath) is no exception. There are very specific rules regarding bathing. In general, bathing has the following benefits, aside from the obvious cleansing of dirt etc:

- Enhances physical energy
- Improves mental clarity
- Relaxes the mind
- Balances emotions
- Reduces vata
- Removes toxins from the body (internal & external)
- Improves circulation
- Improves appetite
- ... and more!!!!

Ayurveda recommends bathing on a daily basis as part of our daily morning routines. A second bath may be required if you have gotten physically dirty during the day.  

The following is an ideal way to bathe:
- After your morning teeth care routine, exercise, & meditation then you can bathe
- Bathe before the sun rises, ideally
- Never bathe after eating, always on an empty stomach
- Depending on your dosha, may perform dry brushing
- If not contraindicated (such as pregnancy or menstruation or excessive ama), do an oil massage (abhyangha) before bathing, ideally with sesame oil or according to your dosha. Do not use soap to wash the oil off - it will absorb into your skin. 
- Optionally, can apply herbal powders after abhyanga
- Water should be luke warm, not too hot. Wash head, face and hair with cooler water

Additional tips...
- Do not use harsh soaps or chemicals. Only use a gentle soap on your armpits and privates if needed. The vaginal area is very sensitive so the smallest thing can disturb its pH. 
- Ayurveda does not generally recommend "cold" plunges as it is too shocking on the nervous system. There are many schools of thought on this but the best thing is to listen to your body and see how it makes you feel :)