Can we use hot water for bathing?

No. Using cold water tones up the nervous system while using hot water weakens the nervous system. So, bathing with cold water is beneficial for health. However, if bathing with cold water in extreme winters seems like an unbearable task, you can take a gentler approach by starting your bath with lukewarm water. 

• First begin bathing with a bucket of lukewarm water. Pour that lukewarm water on your legs (below the knees). 
• Then immerse your hands (till the elbows) in that bucket of lukewarm water for 1-2 minutes. 
• Now, damp your body with that lukewarm water and gently scrub it with granulated flour (besan) or multaani mitti. 
• Then, open the tap to pour some cold water in the bucket of lukewarm water. You will notice that slowly, only cold water will remain in the bucket. You will be bathing with cold water without even realizing it.