Researchers in Germany say <br />two hot baths a week significantly <br />improve symptoms of depression. <br />They add it is even more effective than exercise. <br />The study was conducted by scientists at Freiburg University. <br />Researchers had 45 people with diagnosed depression take baths for <br />30 minutes twice a week. <br />They were also given the option to do <br />45 minutes of aerobic exercise twice a week. <br />After eight weeks, both groups scored lower on a depression scale, but those who took baths <br />scored lower than the exercise group. <br />Scientists say hot baths help relieve depression because they strengthen circadian rhythm. This biological process influences sleep cycles, eating habits and digestion, body temperature and other bodily functions.
