Hot Tub Benefits
There are three factors at work in a spa:
Together, they create an experience that is both relaxing and healing. Immersion in hot water raises the body temperature and causes the blood vessels to dilate, resulting in increased circulation. The buoyancy of the water reduces body weight by approximately 90%, relieving pressure on joints and muscles and creating the relaxing sensation of weightlessness.
The massaging action of a spa creates an "energized" stream of water relaxing tight muscles and stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural pain killers.
Weight Loss
As unbelievable as it may sound, recent studies have proven that the regular use of hot tubs can aid in the reduction of weight. This stems from the fact that soaking in a hot tub simulates exercise by dilating the blood vessels and promoting better circulation as it relaxes the skin and muscles. It also raises the heart rate, while lowering blood pressure. This seems to indicate that soaking in a hot tub may be healthier for your heart than the traditional methods of exercise - same benefits but with less stress to the heart.
An article that appeared in the September 16, 1999 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine followed a group of subjects who were required to soak in a hot tub for thirty minutes a day, six days a week, for three weeks. Though this study was for diabetes research, the results were wide-reaching. The subjects lost over one pound per week, just by soaking in a spa.
Banish Cellulite
Regular use of hot tubs can also help to diminish the appearance of cellulite. The design of a woman's body naturally causes the skin to dimple out, whether she is overweight or thin. However, by improving circulation to the areas affected by cellulite, it has been proven that the appearance of the unsightly deposits can be reduced.
The hydrotherapy that a hot tub provides stimulates the blood vessels, increasing circulation. It also tones the body tissue, reduces fluid retention and relieves swelling. All of these benefits combined can result in the diminishment of the appearance of cellulite.
Bodily Cleansing
In trying to regain its normal temperature, the body will begin sweating so that moisture on the skin will evaporate and cool the body. This process also helps rid the body of toxins.
Ease Arthritis
The good news for sufferers is that there is a safe and effective way to both minimize the discomfort and prevent further damage. According to a publication from The Arthritis Foundation, Spas, Pools, and Arthritis, "Regular sessions in a hot tub help keep joints moving. It restores and preserves strength and flexibility, and also protects your joints from further damage”. "A hot tub fulfills the need perfectly...providing the warmth, massage, and buoyancy that is so necessary to the well-being of arthritis sufferers. The buoyancy of the water supports and lessens stress on the joints and encourages freer movement. Water exercises may even act as a resistance to help build muscle strength." Many arthritis sufferers find that a soak in the morning provides day-long relief.
Stress Buster
We all have stress in our daily lives relating to work, family and society. Mental tensions, frustrations and insecurity are among the most damaging types of stress. Affected by stress, the heart works harder, breathing becomes more rapid and shallow, and digestion slows. Nearly every process of the body is degraded. Researchers have estimated that 80% of disease is stress related. Since we usually can't avoid it, the key to dealing with stress is relieving it!
Numerous independent studies have proven that a warm water massage stimulates the release of endorphins, the body's natural "feel good" chemical. Your hot tub will enhance your sense of well being, and leave you feeling fresh, clean, and ready to tackle life's daily challenges
Sleep Therapy
Get a Good Night's Restful Sleep. Did you know that relaxing in a hot tub can help ease your body into a deeper sleep? Studies suggest that immersion in a hot tub before bedtime can ease the transition into a deeper, more restful sleep. Rather than reaching for over-the-counter sleeping aids, a simple solution to this dilemma may be relaxing in a hot tub before bedtime. This is because the hot, swirling water leaves you feeling both mentally and emotionally relaxed.
Controlling Diabetes
After a study "hot tub therapy" helped a group of Type 2 diabetics reduce their blood sugar levels and improve sleep patterns. The effects of partial immersion in a hot tub simulate the beneficial effects of exercise. Physical exercise is recommended for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
An independent study was carried out on a group of Type 2 diabetes patients for three weeks. The patients were required to soak in a hot tub for thirty minutes a day, six days a week, for the duration of the study. The results were astounding! The patients' average blood sugar levels were reduced by an average of 13 percent. One of the subjects was able to reduce his daily dose of insulin by 18 percent after only ten days of the study.
Reach for a towel instead of a pill
Many people with conditions such as fibromyalgia and other painful conditions find that a soak in a hot tub decreases the need for pain medication, providing relief without side effects. Similarly, people previously on anti-depressants were able to wean themselves off after finding that soaking in a hot tub improved their feeling of well-being by releasing endorphins, which are the body’s natural mood enhancers.
Ease Back Pain
Lower back pain is the number 2 reason in the U.K (after colds and the flu) for a visit to the doctor. Millions of people suffer needlessly. For many years people have used spa therapy (soaking in hot baths of mineral water) as an alternative treatment for various chronic diseases. And there's always been anecdotal evidence that the hot water and jets of a spa relieve back pain.