What is it about warm water than makes us feel so good? Why do we come home at the end of the day and crave a nice hot bath? And why do we feel so relaxed after sitting in a hot tub?
Here’s why: When you immerse yourself in warm or hot water, it can promote the release of feel-good hormones like dopamine, giving you a heightened sense of pleasure and satisfaction.
Are Hot Tubs Good for Stress?
Hot tubs combine calming warm water and muscle-massaging jets to create a powerful hydrotherapy session in the comfort of your own home. So, there’s no doubt that spas are super relaxing, but do hot tubs legitimately relieve stress?
The research into this question is ongoing, but some studies find that water immersion can reduce the “concentration of cortisol, which is commonly referred to as the stress hormone.”
Other benefits of hot tub sessions include:
- Improved circulation
- Reduced joint pain
- Muscle recovery
- Better sleep
Another source found, "The autonomic nervous system responds to warm water immersion the same way it responds to meditation or a number of other relaxed states".
That’s right, taking a dip in your hot tub can have the same effect on your body as meditation!
How Does Stress Affect Your Mind and Body?
Stress symptoms, if left untreated, can have implications on your overall health, in some cases causing heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health issues, and sleep problems.
Common Symptoms of Stress:
- Muscle tension – can lead to headaches and pain.
- Anxiety and irritability - can affect your relationships and social life.
- Indigestion and nausea - can result in disordered eating, undereating, and overeating.
- Fatigue and burnout – can leave you relying on artificial energy boosters, such as caffeinated drinks and tobacco which can harm your body.
Are Hot Tubs Good for Your Mental Health?
Hot tubs can definitely benefit your mental health. They allow you to sit back and switch off from the outside world, work and social media. You can use your time in the tub to collect your thoughts, decompress and focus on your own wellbeing.
Having the opportunity to switch off once a day can massively reduce feelings of stress and ill health, such as anxiety and depression.
Do Hot Tubs Help You Sleep Better?
Lack of sleep can seriously impact your stress levels. Fortunately, this insomnia study found that “subjects experienced significantly "deeper" and more restful sleep after hot baths.” A soak in a hot tub can provide similar results.
So, if you’re looking to improve your sleep patterns and stress levels, treat yourself to a soothing soak in your hot tub before bed.
What Type of Hot Tub Should I Buy?
At Premier Hot Tubs, we’re here to make purchasing a hot tub just as relaxing as using one. If you’d like some additional guidance on choosing which one is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to help!
Buy Hot Tubs
