In the heart of Japan's Shinto tradition is the concept of 'misogi'—a ritual using natural bodies of water to cleanse mental and spiritual impurities. Such water-based purification rituals resonate across major religions worldwide.

Wudu is the optimized version.

With just a cup of water and five minutes, wudu becomes a bridge to both spiritual clarity and physiological benefits. Its name, derived from the root "waḍaʿa," translates to "to shine," hinting at its dual role as a spiritual cleanser and a neurological reset.

Here's what happens during wudu:

• Increased Alertness: The stimulation of nerve endings heightens awareness. This alertness can be attributed to the release of adrenaline, which plays a role in our body's response to sudden changes.

• Improved Circulation: The immersion and subsequent warming enhance blood flow, potentially releasing endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators.

• Dive Reflex Activation: Splashing the face activates the 'mammalian dive reflex,' inducing calm by slowing the heart rate and potentially releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward.

• Vagus Nerve Stimulation: This nerve, when stimulated by water, promotes relaxation and reduces stress. It also stimulates the release of acetylcholine, aiding in attention, learning, and memory.

• Mood Elevation: The combined physiological benefits, including the release of oxytocin—known as the "bonding hormone"—lead to enhanced mood and feelings of connection.

• Natural Pain Relief: Water's numbing effect and its anti-inflammatory properties alleviate pain, with endorphins acting as the body's natural painkillers.

• Grounding: Especially when washing the feet, wudu fosters a sense of presence and connection to the moment, potentially releasing norepinephrine, associated with attention and the body's response mechanisms.

In essence, wudu is a conduit to calmness, focus, and physiological well-being, making it an invaluable daily practice.

Try this today:

1. Use slightly cold water for wudu.

2. Integrate wudu into 1 daily task—be it before artistic endeavors, important conversations, or family dinners. Notice the difference in your state of being compared to other days.