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? 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 including dopamine, giving you a heightened sense of pleasure and satisfaction.
Is a hot tub good for stress?
Calming warm water plus muscle-massaging jets equals a powerful hydrotherapy session in the comfort of your own home. There’s no doubt hot tubs are super relaxing, but do they 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.”
Hydrotherapy is widely linked to improved well-being, including reduced feelings of stress. Additional benefits include:
- a relaxing experience
- 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, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health issues, and sleep problems.
Common symptoms of stress:
- Headaches – can result in disordered eating, undereating, and overeating. Anxiety is often related as well.
- Fatigue and burnout – can leave you relying on artificial energy boosters, such as caffeinated drinks and tobacco which can harm your body.
Is a hot tub good for your mental health?
Hot tubs can benefit your mental health. Simply sit back and switch off from the outside world, work, and social media. Use this time to collect your thoughts and decompress.
Switching 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.
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