Forget the caffeine and opt for an arm bath instead!

Like so many people nowadays, I find myself reaching for a coffee. I have one after the gym or mid-morning to give me a little boost.  Yet, I know that to be honest, it probably isn't that great for me.

Lately I've been reading about water therapy and came across a Bavarian priest called Sebastian Kneipp who is cited as being one of the forefathers of the naturopathic medicine movement. Sebastian Kneipp had a tip called the "Kneipp espresso."

It's a cold arm bath which he called a healthy cup of coffee, namely because it stimulates - without over-stimulating. The benefits are huge - check out the list!

• Strengthens the immune defences of the upper airways

• Promotes circulation of the blood

• Stimulates the metabolism

• Supports blood flow within the heart muscle

• Refreshes in the case of exhaustion and fatigue

• Relieves pain in the case of elbow discomfort

  
  

Here's how you do it:

1. A good time for the Kneipp Espresso is late morning or early afternoon (and otherwise as needed)

2. Fill a washbasin with cold water (12 to 18 C/54 to 65 F)

3. Your arms and hands should be warm at the start. Doing it if you are cold is strongly discouraged as this indicates circulatory problems which could

4. become worse with cold water

5. Now immerse your arms in the water, up to the middle of the upper arm, until a feeling of cold becomes noticeable (usually about 30 to 40 seconds)

6. During this time, breathe calmly and deeply, and smile!

7. Then, gently wipe the water off your arms

8. Take care to rewarm yourself. Put on clothing and swing your arms back and forth

   
   

Please take care

If you have angina pectoris and organic heart disease, you should proceed carefully with the cold arm bath.

Tip

Before wiping the water off your arms, gently wet the back of your neck. This is particularly refreshing because the cardiovascular and respiratory centre is located here. Have fun!