A hot shower before going to bed can improve your sleep. And it seems the Japanese have known this for many years!
The Japanese have a long washing process.
When taking a shower, the Japanese follow a special ritual consisting of several steps. First, they go into the shower to wash away all the dust and sweat. They can even add green tea and various herbs to the water to soothe the body, cleanse the skin and tone the mind.
The Japanese also carefully choose the water temperature, not more than 40 ° C, as too hot water can lead to loss of body moisture and open pores.
Follow old family customs.
The luxury of a morning shower in Japan, as well as around the world, did not become available until recently. In the 19th century there was no hot water, heating or plumbing in Japanese homes. So most people had to boil water first, in order to take a hot bath. This is a time consuming process! So the general habit of bathing in the evening continued.
They often visit public baths or hot springs.
Public hot springs are popular in Japan. People of different ages go there, not only to bathe, but also to relax and spend time doing something nice. It can be said to be a kind of entertainment. At night there are usually fewer people, which makes it possible to be alone with your thoughts. Complete relaxation!
They do not have enough time in the morning.
The Japanese are real workers. About 4.5 million full-time workers in Japan have second jobs and work, on average, 6 to 14 extra hours each week. Moreover, in Japan it is very important to be punctual. If you come even a few minutes late, it can be perceived negatively. Therefore, in the morning, the Japanese do not have even a minute free.
Affected by climate.
Summer in Japan is hot and very humid. Most citizens do not use cars, but public transport and feel the effect of the weather on themselves to the maximum. They do not feel well without a long shower at the end of the day.
In winter, Japanese houses are very cold because most of them do not have air and central heating. They shower before bed, not only to wash, but also to warm up.
