Water has a rich history of use in naturopathic medicine, in fact the healing benefits of hydrotherapy were first documented by Hippocrates in the 5th century. Most people are familiar with the simple concepts of hot water to relax tight muscles and cold ice to reduce inflammation. Hydrotherapy expands on these basic principles by improving overall blood quality thereby tonifying organs and improving processes such as digestion. Our blood supplies vital energy in the form of oxygen to all of our cells. Hydrotherapy manipulates the bodies circulation in order to maximize the potential of blood as a life giving force. It enhances our immunity, improves overall digestion and nutrition, promotes detoxification and helps to restore nervous equilibrium.Hydrotherapy involves hot and cold compresses applied to the chest, abdomen and back in conjunction with a mild electrical stimulation to the back and abdomen. It is useful in treating almost any condition but is particularly suited to digestive complaints, back pain, respiratory problems, cold/flu, circulatory problems and female reproductive issues. The premise behind this treatment is that a persons health is proportional to the normal flow of healthy blood. The goal is to normalize the quantity of blood circulating in specific organs and improve the overall quality in the general circulation.
