Let us sizzle in the water this summer. Bathing is a purification rite. One very famous prayer of King David was, 'Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity and cleanse me from my sin'.

Seawater baths and breathing in the fresh sea air promote good health and are antidotes for many diseases. As long as the ocean remains clean, it is a healthy recreation.

Happy experiences at the sea include children at play, romance or simply the peace induced by watching the movement of the waves.

Blissful liberation

A recent survey conducted in Australia found that most Australians were far more likely to experience a sense of peace and well-being by the sea than in church. The seawater seems to bring a sense of blissful liberation.

Sea salt, which is gathered from the ocean for use in our kitchens, is processed through evaporation. Sea salt contains more magnesium, potassium and less sodium. Iodine, minerals and other nutrients are retained.

Irish moss is a wonderful sea vegetable packed with trace minerals while retaining the nutrients of the ocean. It acts as an emulsifier, thickener and stabiliser. Seaweed soothes the skin, eases sunburn, clears up eczema, rashes, and dermatitis, and prevents premature ageing. Nature has her answers to so many of our problems — the sun's rays age your skin while seaweed is an anti -ageing agent.

Hot springs or baths

Hot springs or medicinal waters with high mineral content are those which emerge spontaneously from the core of the earth. These waters energise us with their powerful radioactivity, minerals, ions, gases and pH factor. The mineral content of these waters may increase metabolism, accelerate healing, soothe muscles, improve blood circulation and detoxify the body's lymphatic system.

Hot springs are recommended for people who suffer from hypertension, diabetes, poor circulation and other degenerative diseases.

Here in Jamaica, we have several springs and natural baths. Two of the most popular ones are Milk River in Clarendon and the Bath Fountain Hotel in the hinterlands of St Thomas. These waters are said to be even more radioactive than those found at some of the most notable international spas.

It is suggested that you spend a maximum of 15 minutes in these waters.

Dr Diane Robertson is a pharmacist and recipient of an honorary doctoratein complementary medicine for her work in herbs; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.