BATH TANTRA BATHING1.TXT ************************************************************************ Finally one may take his bath, or in the west preferably a shower. Although seven types of bath are mentioned in the Vedic literatures, including bath of the mind, bath by mantra or prayer, rain/sun baths, etc. we will restrict ourselves to the more common water bath. It is suggested that amongst water baths, a pond is good, a lake is better, and a river is best. Translated into western civilization, a shower is better for general cleansing than a tub bath, as it has the advantages of washing away dirts and oils, as well as excessive psycho-electrical energies, massaging and stimulating the body. The bath temperature should be cool or slightly warm ending with cool, unless the bather is old, infirm, or diseased in which case warm water may be used. In no case should excessively hot water be used for general bathing and especially never on the head. Bathing with, or ending with cool water is extremely beneficial, as it stimulates the circulation,and nervous systems, and this one practice can do more towards making a personal feel vital and alive than almost any other simple practice. Bath should be taken at least each morning, while for some it is suggested taking twice or three times dally. ------------------------------------------------------------------------