The beneficial effect of hardening has been known for a long time. These procedures increase immunity, improve the functioning of blood vessels, train the mechanisms of thermoregulation and heat exchange.
In ancient Greece, future warriors began to be tempered from the cradle. They walked barefoot in any weather, swam in very cold water, and wore a minimum of things. In Russia, cooling procedures were mandatory after a bath, including dipping into an ice hole, rubbing with snow, etc.
How to start hardening a child?
Do not immediately start pouring cold water on your baby. This will lead to a cold or inflammation, because from such actions the body will receive stress. To get started, start rubbing the child's body with a towel or washcloth. Do not do it too hard, as baby's skin is very delicate. Start rubbing with your legs and arms, gradually moving to other parts of the body. This stimulates the circulation of blood flow in tissues, skin and blood vessels. After that, put the baby in warm clothes.
Fresh air
Walk with your baby in the fresh air as often as possible. Clothes should be comfortable. Depending on how old your child is, try to get the child to move as much as possible. Take a ball with you to the playground - let the baby run after it.
Morning work-out
Your little one should do exercises every morning. The movements don't have to be complicated. Play a song for children to dance to. Let him jump, raise his arms and legs, turn his head. All these simple movements will provide a boost of vigor to the child for the whole day.
Cold and hot shower
A contrast shower is a great way to harden your baby. For a minute, water the child with a stream of water, the temperature of which is no more than 40 degrees. Then the crumb should stand for a minute and a half under moderately hot water, in the end - 30 seconds under cool water.
Sea water
Flush your child's throat and nose with sea water. There are special products on sale now, such as Otrivin, Humer, Aquamaris. Be sure to read the contraindications and age restrictions. Sea water strengthens local immunity. You need to use the funds at least twice a day.
Sun and air baths
Sun baths and air baths are also hardening methods that have an excellent effect on the body's respiratory system, blood circulation and heart. During the warm period, baths should be taken outdoors, where there is no wind and drafts. It is best to do this in the morning at a temperature of no more than 20 degrees. In no case do not keep the child in direct rays, otherwise the child may get sunstroke.
