9 Reasons Why Baths are Better than Showers

We’re not sure whether it’s the water or the peace and quiet that comes with it, but there’s something about a nice, long soak that soothes the senses and mellows the mind.

SEE ALSO: The Differences Between a Turkish and Moroccan Bath

We all know this to be true, but there’s science if you want it. A study by the University of Freiburg found that taking a hot bath not only relieves stress and muscle tension but might even alleviate symptoms of depression.

A step beyond simple relaxation, studies have shown that a bath before bedtime increases drowsiness and sleep quality. Just don’t fall asleep in the tub!

While we don’t advocate the Julia Roberts wire-in-the-bath strategy, the bathroom is tailor-made for music – unless, that is, all you can hear is the pounding of shower water on porcelain.

We recommend Soap Disco by Maroon 5, Led Zeppelin’s When The Levee Breaks, and Waterfalls by TLC.

It’s not just that you can read – it’s practically the law. Keep a towel at the ready, prop yourself against the edge of the tub, and bestow upon your bathtime another layer of leisure. We’re not sure a power shower would be particularly tolerant of the latest John Grisham.

The bath-and-book combo is a classic of the genre, but why stop there? Watch a movie, enjoy a roast dinner, or crack open a bottle of red. Just don’t play Candy Crush if you’ve got even a hint of butter fingers.

Bath bombs, smelling salts, and of course the incalculable majesty of bubble bath – today’s tub is an open invitation to accessorise. We don’t want to meet the person that doesn’t love a rubber duckey.

Shower loyalists often peddle the myth that bathing is bad for you, because you’re effectively marinating in your own dirt. Not so: Having a good long soak can help moisturise dry skin, particularly if you use bath oils.

Whether bonding with a baby, hitting the jacuzzi with your mates, or enjoying a romantic bubble bath for two, the tub can often handle more than one at a time. Showers are only sociable after a football match.

The whole enterprise is earmarked for indulgence, self-care, and taking time away from the world. Treat yourself.