'I'm an NHS GP - do this for 20 mins before bed to sleep better and clear a cold'

A doctor is urging people to consider doing one simple and easy activity in the evening as the winter months draw in

As we head into the winter, experts are encouraging people to add one thing to their usual nighttime routine - a 20 minute bath. As well as being a great way to unwind and warm up after a long day, it can also have some health benefits, too.

Victorian Plumbing has worked with an NHS doctor to highlight the perks of enjoying a steamy soak in the bath before bedtime this winter. Dr Hana Patel explained why a hot bath can be best for relaxation and overall wellbeing as temperatures drop.

She said: "Research and evidence show that a warm bath before bed can help a person fall asleep and improve sleep quality. The reason for this is that a bath will help lower your core body temperature, and this can help with our circadian sleep signals."

With colder months meaning a rise in the number of cold and flu cases, the NHS recommends steam inhalation as a method to alleviate congestion by loosening mucus. A soothing bath, filled with plenty of warm water, is a handy way to relax and become unblocked, reports the Express.

But, this method comes with a warning. It's crucial to take precautions to avoid scalding so always assess the water's temperature before getting in and don't feel the need to keep adding more hot water.

For those without a bathtub, a warm shower can serve as an effective substitute, as reported by Healthline. Because the steam is what's doing the magic work of unblocking your nose, it can be just as effective to hop in the shower before bed too.

Typically, cold symptoms will develop over a span of two to three days and should disappear after about a week. As per the NHS website, the primary symptoms include:

• a blocked or runny nose
• sneezing
• a sore throat
• a hoarse voice
• a cough
• feeling tired and unwell

It is estimated by Medline Plus the that, on average, adults can catch two to three colds per year. Kids catch more though, with findings suggesting that little ones will suffer six to ten times a year.

Research from Victorian Plumbing revealed the restorative power of a good bath, particularly during winter, with a notable 88% of men experiencing increased relaxation from bathing. The survey highlighted that 78% of men have a soothing dip at least once weekly, while an almost half (48%) indulge on a daily basis.

Bathroom expert Alex Woods, of Victorian Plumbing, said: "We want everyone to be able to enjoy a nice, relaxing bath! Our findings from the study challenge the outdated notion that bathing is primarily a feminine pastime.

"Not only do men recognise the health benefits of regular baths but they also actively enjoy them. So this winter we urge everyone to relax, unwind and warm up with a soak in the bath."