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Throughout history, bathing has been timed for various purposes. Some cultures shower in the morning to cleanse the spirit before prayer, while others prefer evening baths for socializing and cleaning before bedtime.
Shahab Haghayegh sought a better night’s sleep and found success by switching his shower routine from morning to evening. This change inspired him to study how warm nighttime showers can aid in sleep quality.
Timing your shower can have significant mental and physical benefits. Here’s how to optimize your shower routine for better sleep:
Nighttime Sleep Quality:
Research, including Haghayegh’s own studies, suggests that evening showers can improve sleep by aligning body temperature with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.
To enhance sleep quality, take a warm shower at least 1-2 hours before bedtime. The warm water signals your body to cool down, syncing with your circadian clock for a faster and deeper sleep. Aim for water temperature around 104°F for best results.
It may take a few days for your body to adjust to this new routine. Consistency is key in reaping the benefits of nighttime showering for improved sleep quality.
Creativity:
Studies indicate that taking showers at night may boost creativity.
Evening showers offer a relaxing environment for free association, fostering creativity. Many individuals find that they are more inclined towards spontaneous thinking during the evening when the brain is less focused and inhibited. For creative inspiration, taking nighttime showers can be likened to fishing at dawn: you are more likely to come across unexpected and valuable ideas when the conditions are naturally conducive. Just as fish rise to the surface in calm waters, your best ideas may surface when your mind is tranquil and wandering during an evening shower.
Apart from creativity, evening bathing can also contribute to personal hygiene by allowing you to cleanse the dirt accumulated throughout the day. Dr. Ranella Hirsch, a dermatologist in Boston, highlights the potential benefits of nighttime showers for the skin, suggesting that it may provide an opportunity for skin cells to repair overnight. While there is a lack of scientific studies comparing the effects of evening versus morning showers on hygiene, there are intriguing possibilities associated with nighttime showers.
On the other hand, morning showers are favored by those who value cleanliness and efficiency, particularly when it comes to grooming routines. Some people prefer morning showers to style their hair easily and feel more alert throughout the day. Shower products with energizing scents like lavender and rosemary can help boost alertness in the morning. Consider the natural circadian rhythm of the body, where morning showers can align with the body’s temperature increase and enhance wakefulness.
Ultimately, the choice between morning and evening showers may depend on personal preferences, lifestyle, and profession, as well as individual hygiene needs. Both morning and evening showers have their unique benefits, so it’s essential to consider what works best for you in terms of creativity, hygiene, and practicality.
Boost Your Energy Levels with a Cold Shower
Your shower routine could be the key to improving your energy levels. According to Haghayegh, switching to a cold shower in the morning can trick your body into thinking it’s in a cold environment, prompting it to retain heat. Studies have shown that people may feel more alert and in better moods after taking cold baths.
Consider your preferences when deciding on your shower routine. If you struggle with feeling groggy in the mornings, a cold shower might be worth a try. Alternatively, for those who enjoy a more leisurely approach to showering and have time to spare, a warm shower at night followed by a cold one in the morning could be beneficial.
Choose a routine and stick to it, whether you prefer morning, night, or both. Consistency is key in signaling to your body cues for sleep. As Ebben explains, any habits you practice around bedtime can become conditioning factors for a better night’s sleep.
Remember not to overcomplicate your routine with lengthy wind-down and wind-up rituals. Establishing a regular schedule is important, as Harris emphasizes the benefits of maintaining a routine. For more information, reach out to us at letters@time.com.
