No, it's not advisable to bathe in the first rain. While the romantic notion of a cleansing rain shower is appealing, the first rainfall often contains pollutants and contaminants picked up as it falls through the atmosphere.
Why You Shouldn't Bathe in the First Rain
- Harmful Pollutants: The first rain of the season can wash away dust, dirt, and other pollutants accumulated in the atmosphere, resulting in contaminated rainwater. These pollutants can cause skin irritation, infections, and other health problems. [Source: The first rains may contain pollutants that may cause skin infections, increase your chance of catching a cold, and lower your immunity. If you have got wet, you must take a hot shower, wear fresh dry, and clean clothes, dry your head, and consume warm foods and drinks. ]
- Increased Risk of Illness: Exposure to contaminated rainwater increases your susceptibility to infections and lowers your body's immunity. [Source: The first rains may contain pollutants that may cause skin infections, increase your chance of catching a cold, and lower your immunity. If you have got wet, you must take a hot shower, wear fresh dry, and clean clothes, dry your head, and consume warm foods and drinks. ]
- Removal of Harmful Toxins: Even if you don't experience immediate symptoms, it's recommended to shower after getting wet in the first rain to remove potential harmful toxins. [Source: While it may sound counter-intuitive, taking a shower after getting wet in the first rains can help you remove the harmful toxins that you might have gotten in… (Agilus Blog)]
What to Do If You Get Wet in the First Rain
If you accidentally get wet in the first rain, it's crucial to take the following steps:
- Take a hot shower to wash away any contaminants.
- Change into clean, dry clothes.
- Dry your hair thoroughly.
- Consume warm food and drinks to help boost your immunity.
While some cultures hold beliefs about the healing properties of the first rain, scientific evidence does not support these claims. [Source: Bathing under it can cure whatever disease one is afflicted with… we were a bit unscientific for believing that rain could heal. (Inquirer Opinion)]
Note that bathing in a bathtub while it's raining outside is perfectly acceptable; this answer addresses the issue of bathing in the first rain itself. [Source: Of course you can take a bath, even if it rains (presuming you have a bathtub). (Quora)]
