Ritual bathing has been used throughout human history, in Egypt, Africa, Asia, Greece, and in the Americas. It is practiced in many spiritual traditions. Water has been called the universal solvent because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid. Wherever water flows, whether through the ground, inside trees, over the skin or through our bodies, it carries substances along with it.  And these substances (minerals, essential oils, herbs) can be used to improve spiritual and emotional issues. Water is also a primary source of energy.