Hydrotherapy decoded: Could water be the missing link in your wellness routine?

Water is one of the most essential components of life and is found abundantly in nature. Nearly 70 per cent of the Earth's surface is covered by water, and the human body is made up of approximately 60 per cent water. Despite its importance for overall health, many people overlook its role when discussing wellness and healing.

“Hydrotherapy is the therapeutic use of water and has been gaining popularity in the recent years,” said Dr Narendra K Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer, Kshemavana Naturopathy and Yoga Centre.

An ancient practice gains new relevance

Water used for healing is not a new concept.

Roman bath complexes, which have been around for centuries, were not only places of relaxation but also centres of health and recovery. Water-based therapies have also been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and naturopathic medicine for detoxification, pain management and overall wellness.

Modern science is beginning to validate some of these traditional methods, and hydrotherapy is experiencing a resurgence in popularity.

So what does science say?

Studies show that hydrotherapy can help with an array of health conditions.

A 2024 review in the

found hydrotherapy may help people with arthritis, fibromyalgia and chronic pain. The review suggests that hydrotherapy can be a useful adjunct to conventional treatments and can lead to increased comfort and mobility overall.

Research has also revealed that warm water immersion can decrease cortisol levels and ease muscle tension. These effects have been demonstrated not only in the patients’ own reports but also in measurable physiological changes.

Also, a study published in 2025 in

...reported that cold-water immersion could potentially benefit both immune function and mood.

Why Hydrotherapy is becoming popular in India

Wellness centres and naturopathy facilities at places like Kerala, Pune and Rishikesh are increasingly including therapies such as underwater massage, ice bath and contrast bath in their wellness programmes.

These therapies are no longer simply viewed as a luxury experience but are being incorporated into wider health and wellness plans to assist with recovery, relaxation and preventative care.

Easy ways to incorporate hydrotherapy

One of the greatest benefits of hydrotherapy is its availability.

Many hydrotherapy techniques can be performed at home without specialist equipment or costly treatments.

Here are some typical examples:

All of these practices take only a few extra minutes and access to a toilet.

Several naturopathy centres have started using such water-based therapies in their regular wellness programmes as per the 2024 guidelines of the Ministry of AYUSH.

Hydrotherapy is one of the oldest healing tools in the human race,” says Dr Shetty, “but it’s something that very few people think of in their daily lives.

In an era where wellness products and treatments can be costly and overwhelming, water serves as a reminder that some of the simplest health-supporting practices may already be available at home.

Hydrotherapy is not a replacement for medical treatment, but its rising popularity suggests an increasing focus on preventive healthcare, stress management and overall well-being.

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