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Hydrotherapy the Kundalini Yoga way
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As I immersed myself into a yogic lifestyle during my Kundalini Yoga teacher training, there were many changes that were new to me, but by far the most challenging to adjust to was taking a cold shower each morning. It didn’t take long for me to feel the positive impact on my overall health, however, inspiring me to keep up!
The science of hydrotherapy, known as ishnaan, is when the body creates a temperature that can ward off the coldness of the water. What’s the point, you ask? When the cold water hits the surface of the skin, all of the blood from the internal organs rushes to the surface in self-defense, opening up the capillaries and vastly increasing circulation. When the capillaries return to normal, the blood, which is regulated by the beat of the heart, goes back to the organs, each of which has its own blood supply. In this way, the organs get flushed and as this occurs, the glands change their secretion, keeping the blood chemistry young and healthy. Yogi Bhajan, Master of Kundalini Yoga, compared the organs getting a rich supply of blood to a crop getting a beautiful rain. This, he said, will help to balance your health.
If you are feeling courageous enough to give this form of hydrotherapy a try, begin by massaging almond oil all over your body before you get wet. The skin more easily absorbs oil when it is mixed with water, thereby nourishing the body through the pores. As you step into the shower, acclimate your body by first putting your feet, hands and arms into the flow of the water. The thighs, head and genitals should never go under the water first. Continue going in and out of the water for a few minutes, constantly massaging your body.
During hydrotherapy, the body is challenged by the cold water, and by being continually massaged. Yogi Bhajan taught that, “Everywhere that the cold water hits, the blood will come. Everywhere you massage, rebuilding will occur and the psyche of each cell of the body will be reconstructed.” When you step into the water, your body will feel cold initially, but as the capillaries open to maximum capacity, the body will no longer feel the chill.
Precautions: Do not take a cold shower during pregnancy or menstruation, or if you have heart disease, rheumatism, or a fever. Extra care should be taken if there are problems with high blood pressure or the sciatic nerve.
Medical Disclaimer: This information comes from ancient yogic traditions. Nothing should be construed as medical advice. Always consult with your personal physician or licensed health care practitioner before making modifications to your diet or lifestyle to be certain that the changes are appropriate for your personal health condition.
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