Water is Essential to Health and Well-Being
Water plays an essential role in our health and well-being. Like the Earth, our bodies are made mostly of water. Our first tangible experience is of water, living and developing in the water of our mother’s womb. One birthing technique has mothers birth their babies into warm water to lessen the impact of moving from a soothing, dark world to bright lights, hard surfaces and air. All humans, in many different ways, seek to return psychologically to the time when they were safe and in the most relaxed state: in their mother’s womb. We sense that the womb is a source of physical and emotional comfort, and we transfer those feelings to the water that sustains life on this planet.
All creatures need water to live, even in the desert, where the idea of oasis is more than just a place to stop on a journey. Civilization developed where water pooled or rushed downstream; people still flock to live on, near, or in sight of bodies of water. We need water, not only for our bodies to work well, but also for our minds and spirits. We use them to wash and sustain our bodies, but we can also use water in similar ways to encourage mental health.
Physical Healing with Water
Long before modern psychology, people used water for healing. They were drawn to hot springs for their curative effects. Science now tells us that these waters are full of minerals and salts that our bodies crave. Bathing in warm water, aided by soothing oils and aromas, can lower blood pressure, relax
tension-filled muscles, ease headaches and lead to a night of restful sleep. Those before us might not have known why the water cured them of aches and pains, but they certainly knew that it could be effective.
Using Water to Reflect and Relax
Water is a natural reflector, but it also encourages reflection. Installing an aquarium into a home or office can be a wonderful stress-reducer for the inhabitants. We use the sounds of ocean surf, lake waves, babbling brooks, waterfalls, rain and aquariums to decrease stress. Even simulating the sound of rainfall or ocean tides can lure fitful sleepers to rest. Many therapies, psychological and others, take advantage of this knowledge by recommending that patients utilize water sounds to relax at home - in their own personal oasis of healing. This tip is one of many discussed by The Midwest Center's
Attacking Anxiety & Depression Program. The program centers around giving people the tools they need to help manage their stress.
The Positive Physical and Psychological Effects of Water
All humans have an intrinsic need to adapt to the demands of life, with an equal need to maintain balance, control and inner peace. The power of water, combined with relaxation techniques, is essential to one’s mental and physical well-being, to help one reach wholeness, and regain energy, youthfulness, stamina and inner peace.
