The snowy season is here, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still enjoy a soothing start to the New Year. While most people in Northeast Ohio and Erie, PA tend to huddle indoors, sipping on hot cocoa and bundling up in blankets, there’s a fantastic way to beat the winter chill that offers a unique blend of relaxation and health benefits, the hot tub. Your home’s spa could be your ticket to a healthier and more rejuvenating year ahead. We are going to review some hot tub health benefits you likely don’t even know you are experiencing by taking a soak in that warm and soothing water.
Hot Tub Health Benefits
Hot tubs have long been associated with leisure and relaxation, but their therapeutic effects go beyond simply unwinding. We have reviewed the benefits of owning a hot tub before, but as winter sets in and other outdoor activities are put on hold, the value of hot tub ownership may be more important now than ever, so we are going to dig a little deeper.
Below we review some of the many hot tub health benefits and discover how taking a dip in warm, bubbling waters can be the perfect way to kick start your health and wellness journey in the New Year.
- Mental Wellness and Stress Relief: According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Ironically, hot water can help you chill. Some studies have shown that immersing yourself in hot water could relieve stress and decrease depression symptoms.” As the hustle and bustle of the holiday season gives way to the sometimes bleak and gloomy winter days, stress and the winter blues can set in. The warm, massaging waters of a hot tub provide an ideal environment to alleviate stress and soothe your mind. The combination of warm water, buoyancy, and hydrotherapy jets can help relax tense muscles, release endorphins, and reduce anxiety.
- Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation: Do you suffer from chronic pain or sore muscles during the winter months, or really any time of the year? Hot tubs can be an effective natural remedy. The warm water and hydrotherapy jets can target specific areas of discomfort, providing pain relief and promoting faster recovery. Heat increases blood flow and loosen muscles, the buoyancy of the water takes pressure off joints, and a hot tub soak before exercising may also reduce the risk of injury.
- Improved Sleep: The holidays are over, and for many people, that means back to the everyday grind, while still running low on sleep due to the fast pace of the previous season. Who couldn’t use improved sleep quality? According to research, the relaxation gained from your hot tub may be enough to help you have a more peaceful sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and hot tubs can play a significant role in improving your sleep quality. Soaking in a hot tub before bedtime can relax your body and mind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. The gentle heat and soothing jets promote better blood circulation, which can help relieve muscle tension and ease those restless nights.
- Lowered Blood Pressure: Believe it or not, regular hot tub sessions may help lower your blood pressure. According to a 2016 study, hot water immersion may have “robust” effects on vascular function and blood pressure. The warm water causes your blood vessels to dilate, which in turn can lead to reduced blood pressure levels. Of course, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical conditions, but incorporating hot tub time into your routine could be a proactive step toward improved cardiovascular health.
- Weight Management: If your New Year’s resolution was to drop a few pounds, you may be in luck. In a small 2016 study, participants soaked in a waist high hot bath for an hour and burned about the same number of calories as a 30 minute walk. While hot tubs alone won’t melt away those extra holiday pounds, they can be a valuable addition to your weight management plan. The heat of the water can induce sweating, which helps eliminate toxins from your body. Plus, as mentioned above, the buoyancy of the water reduces the impact on your joints, making it easier to engage in gentle exercises or stretches that can aid in weight loss and toning.
- Enhanced Circulation and Immune Function: Keeping your immune system strong during the winter months is crucial to ward off colds and illnesses. Regular hot tub use may help boost your immune system by reducing stress, improving sleep, and promoting relaxation. When your body is in a state of relaxation, it’s better equipped to fend off infections and viruses. Improved blood circulation is also a key benefit of hot tub therapy. The warm water causes blood vessels to expand, allowing for better blood flow throughout the body. This increased circulation can have a positive impact on your overall health, as it helps oxygenate cells, remove waste products, and reduce inflammation.
When it comes to hot tub health benefits, we could go on and on, but one final thing we don’t want to forget is the social benefits your hot tub brings. Not only can a dip in your spa make you feel better, it can create memories with friends and family. It’s an excellent way to combat the winter blues by fostering positive connections with loved ones.
As you welcome the New Year and embrace the chill of the winter season, consider making a hot tub part of your wellness routine. With its abundance of physical and mental health benefits, a hot tub can be the perfect way to ensure a soothing and rejuvenating start to the year ahead.
Litehouse Pools & Spas is here for all of your hot tub needs. At Litehouse Pools & Spas we not only have a variety of hot tubs and accessories for you to choose from, we also offer hot tub services to ensure you get the most out of your spa.
Contact us today to schedule hot tub service, or visit us in one of our locations to check out our latest hot tub offerings.
