Although many people might think that hot tubs are simply used for fun, socialization, and relaxation, they may not realize that there can also be health benefits associated with hot tub use. Warm water has many properties that can be beneficial to both the body and the mind. And although you should check with your doctor before depending on a hot tub for health benefits, there are many studies that indicate that hot tubs can provide favorable effects. To answer the question of, “Are hot tubs healthy?” we’ve compiled a list of potential health benefits aided by the use of a hot tub.
Improved Mood
Soaking in warm, massaging water is a great way to relieve stress, lift anxiety and improve your mood. Our modern world is filled with stressors. Waking up to the jarring sound of an alarm, rushing to get everyone ready in the morning, dealing with traffic and putting in a full day’s work before rushing home to get dinner on the table and prepare everyone for the following day is enough to increase stress levels in anyone. But taking a few minutes out of your day to soak in your hot tub can help you relax, reduce your heart rate and make your blood flow more easily. If you want an easy way to lift your mood, spending 10 to 20 minutes in a hot tub is a great solution.
Improved Sleep
The amount of sleep we get each night plays a massive role in how we feel the next day. All it takes is a sleepless night to realize how much a lack of sleep can affect our performance, brain function, and mood. It’s been found that soaking in a hot tub shortly before bedtime can allow sufferers of insomnia to fall asleep easier while having a more restful and fulfilling sleep. Not only can hot tub users fall asleep faster, but they can also sleep for longer periods of time resulting in a better-rested mind and body. If you have problems with your sleeping patterns, try soaking in a hot tub to see if you can get some relief.
Relief of Sore Muscles
Whether you’ve ended up with sore muscles because of work, sports or any other type of activity, soaking in a hot tub can help relieve the pain. The combination of warm water and massaging jets can help increase the blood flow and remove toxins such as lactic acid from the muscle fibers. Tension in the muscles is relieved in a hot tub which will reduce pain and allow you to relax. The buoyant properties of water will also lift some of the weight that your body is carrying and reduce pressure on your joints and bones. If the lifestyle you lead constantly finds you dealing with minor aches and pains, spending time in a hot tub can be an excellent way to mitigate the discomfort.
Increase Range of Motion
As we age, our range of motion begins to decrease. This is usually a result of changes in the ability of your joints to move freely. Over time, the cartilage in your joints becomes worn down and the lubricating fluids aren’t as abundant. Your ligaments have a tendency to shrink and become tight and less flexible. On top of this, the levels of the protein collagen, which holds the body together and allows flexibility, start to decline. However, it’s been found that warm water can reduce joint inflammation which allows for easier movement and stretching. By combining simple stretching exercises with a soak in the hot tub, it’s possible to boost flexibility and increase your range of motion.
For more information on how a hot tub can improve your health, download a hot tub buyer’s guide today.