Hot tubs and cabins are a perfect pairing and every modern cabin should consider adding a hot tub. What better way to relax than soaking in warm bubbly water with loved ones at the end of the day. Whether you’ve been working hard, exercising or recreating outdoors, soaking is a great way to wind down your body and mind.
Hot tubs provide a wonderful place to unwind and connect. Not only are they a great addition to any cabin, they also host a number of health benefits that are good for both body and soul.
Hot tubs have been around for centuries – in Ancient Rome and Japan, hydrotherapy has been used for it’s healing properties.
Modern hot tubs appeared in the US in the 1940’s and were inspired by the Japanese ofuro. Japanese use tubs for relaxing and warming oneself, separate from a bath used for washing.
If you have any doubts that hot tubs are good for you, take a cue from Japanese culture of bathing. Studies show that Japanese people live longer and healthier lives due to one simple habit. Nearly 80% of Japanese take a long soak in a hot bath.
Here are just some of the ways that hot tubs are good for you:
Benefits Of Soaking
Relaxation
One of the most obvious benefits of a regular soak in a hot tub is pure relaxation. Warm water soothes your body and helps you unwind. Without the distractions of screens or things to do, you can truly relax in a hot tub and clear your mind to help you relax.
Mindfulness
The hot tub is a great place to practice mindfulness. Even if it’s just for 5 or 10 minutes, it’s a place where there are no screens or distractions and you can just be present in the moment. If you’ve been trying to start a meditation practice, the hot tub might make it a little easier to relax and focus.
Endorphins
Soaking in a hot tub just makes you feel good all over. Your skin releases endorphins in response to the warm water. Soaking results in a feeling of overall well being.
Increased Mobility
Regular use of hot tubs help improve flexibility without the risk of injury. Whether you are stiff and sore from a grueling workout, too much sitting or suffer from arthritis, back pain or other chronic conditions, heat therapy can prove very helpful.
Pain Relief
If your muscles are sore, hot tubs are a natural remedy. When you soak in warm water your blood vessels get bigger and allow more blood and oxygen to injured tissues. This results in better circulation which relaxes stiff muscles and joints. According the Arthritis Foundation, hot tubs are an effective tool to relief joint pain.
Lower Blood Pressure
A study at the Mayo Clinic demonstrated that soaking for 15 minutes in a hot tub simulates exercise and gives you some of the same health benefits. But since the hot tub increases heart rate while lowering blood pressure, instead of raising blood pressure as during exercise, It can be less stressful to the heart.
Improve Circulation
If you suffer from poor circulation, hot tubs could increase your blood flow. The warmth of the water encourages blood flow and allows better circulation through your body. The hot water causes your blood vessels to open, which lowers your blood pressure.
Better Sleep
According to the Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation is a significant problem affecting nearly one third of American Adults and causing a range of health issues from foggy thinking and memory issues to more serious consequences including heart disease and diabetes.
If you’re one of the many who suffer from sleep issues, studies show that soaking in hot water before bedtime can help achieve a more restful and deep sleep. Hot tubs are a natural remedy for sleep – unlike other sleep aids, they don’t leave you feeling groggy in the morning.
When you soak in a hot tub, your boy temperature rises. When you get out, your temperature drops as you cool off. This cool down mimics what your body experiences naturally at bedtime when you start to feel sleepy. Hot water has relaxing properties and relieves stress and helps you unwind. It also alleviates pressure on joint and muscles leaving you feeling both mentally and physically more relaxed before bed.
But make sure to cool down after soaking and before bed time so you don’t overheat at night. And don’t forget to hydrate during and after hot tub sessions.
Connect
Without modern day distractions like cell phones and screens, hot tubs provide the perfect opportunity to be present and connect with loved ones. Just soaking together, relaxing and engaging in good conversation is a perfect way to feel a deeper connection with those you love.
It’s also a great way to connect to nature – watch falling snow, changing leaves, a beautiful sunset or star gazing. It can be an inspiring time to connect to the natural world and marvel at Mother Nature.
Note: Remember to stay hydrated when you are using a hot tub. Please seek a doctor’s advise prior to hot tub use if you have any medical conditions.