Having a bubble bath can significantly improve mental health

Another good excuse to stock up on bath bombs.

A study has found that having a bath can seriously help those suffering with depression. Conducted by the University of Freiburg, Germany, it was concluded that taking a long soak in the tub can be as effective in boosting our mental health as talking a long walk. Exercise has been recommended for years to those dealing with depression so the researchers hoped to find if there was anything that worked as well. After comparing the effects of taking regular hot baths on 45 patients suffering from severe to moderate depression it was found that relaxing in the hot water significantly improved their mental health in a positive way. The trial which took place over eight-week had the subjects randomly assigned to either soak in a bath at 40 degree Celsius for up to 30 minutes twice a week or to take part in two 45-50 minute sessions of moderately intense aerobic exercise. I know which one I would prefer. The German researchers then measured the mood of those taking part in the study by using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score, a widely used depression rating scale. It was found that those who were taking regular baths saw a significant improvement in their depression score, with a reduction of nearly six points. Those who exercised on the other hand only saw a three-point improvement suggesting bathing regularly may well be more effective in helping aid your mental health. So there you have it, you can now soak your worries away. Now if you'll excuse me I've to go and raid LUSH.