Temperature of water and surroundings

In warm water, which is thermo-neutr, the body can keep the core temperature constant for hours (Craig & Dvorak, 1966). At the same time, the sensation of pleasant water temperature is significantly influenced by the surrounding air temperature and humidity. A water temperature of approx. 35-35.5° C with an ambient air of 35° C and 45% humidity is generally perceived as ideal.

Higher water temperatures can lead to overheating in the long term (Becker et al., 2009), while cooler temperatures can provoke physiological reactions that are associated with fear as goose bumps, muscular tension/tremors and rushed breathing (Craig & Dvorak, 1966). Heat and cold are interpreted by the organism as “enemies” which it has to fend off, therefore it reacts accordingly with stress (fight-or-flight response).

Thus, the water temperature is of great importance in order to achieve the relaxation response aimed at in Aquatic Bodywork, a comprehensive physiological change that is associated with the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (Esch et al., 2003). Water therefore serves the goal of Aquatic Bodywork to reduce external stress factors as much as possible.