The Benefits of Hot Tub Ownership

People have different reasons for wanting a hot tub. Some look forward to physical health benefits, others are more interested in improving quality family time, and then there are those just seeking relaxation and escape from life stressors. So how can these basic benefits serve distinct people with different lifestyles, different needs, and different expectations?

Regardless of your age or lifestyle, hot tubs can actually improve life in many ways. For athletes, soaking in a hot tub after a workout can support fitness goals by helping to reduce swelling and loosen stiff joints. Older couples may find the effects of hydrotherapy comforting to relieve pain associated with arthritis and improve flexibility. And this is only the beginning.

Fitness Enthusiasts & Athletes

Relaxing your muscles and joints is an integral part of an active and healthy lifestyle; skipping this step opens the door to injuries that can prevent you from engaging in any activity at all. Whether you run marathons, practice yoga, weight lift, ski, or swim laps, hydrotherapy will relieve your discomfort after a hard workout.

In fact, one report demonstrated that hot water immersion offers "an increase in blood flow, HR (heart rate), and cardiac output, and a decrease in peripheral resistance. Benefits such as decreased muscle spasm, stiffness, and increased range of motion have also been reported following the application of heat." In another study, findings showed, "circulation to deep muscle structures is also increased significantly in water immersion, improving oxygen flow to tissues and potentially facilitating healing of muscle, bone, and joint injuries."

Empty Nesters & Retirees

They don't call it the Golden Years for nothing. So why do only three in ten adults age 75 and older consider their lives today to be better than they were 10 years ago? If you're looking to feel young again, hot tubs are an excellent place to start.

Hydrotherapy can be a great resource for easing the aches of chronic back pain and arthritis. A study by Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (ARD) found that "hydrotherapy is often recommended to patients with arthritis as water provides a range of benefits, including the reduction of edema, pain relief, and reduced loading on damaged arthritic joints."

It can also relieve the symptoms of a variety of other ailments including high blood pressure, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal distress, and a lowered immunity. By soaking in warm water, the heat helps reduce the force of gravity which can place additional stress on joints, decrease swelling, and increase blood circulation.

A spa's rehabilitation and physical therapy uses for older adults are endless. While doing strength and cardio exercises in the aquatic environment, mobility and muscle mass increase while providing less chance for injury. For those who suffer from joint and muscle pain, there are some easy, yet effective, aquatic exercises you can start doing in the comfort of your own backyard.

An added bonus? Your grandkids will love coming over to grandma and grandpa's house!

Busy Parents & Families

Studies have shown that families who spend time together have children who are happier, healthier, and perform better in school. Quality family time also fosters positive emotional health in children, which in turn correlates to less likelihood of risky behavior (and poor choices) such as drug and alcohol use.

For families who are are looking for ways to unplug and reconnect with each other, a hot tub is a wonderful option everyone is sure to approve of. For kids, there is nothing more fun than playing around in the water. And for teenagers, hot tubs take away the distraction of social media and technology. Make it a family night with games, laughter, and great conversation. Or just relish in some couples time without the kids.

If you're worried about the maintenance and expense of a spa, don't be. Hot tub maintenance is simple when you keep up on it and leading spa brands aim for optimal energy efficiency to compete. The key is to look for quality hot tub design and materials that create less friction and prevent excess heat from escaping.

High-Octane Professionals

You've come home after a long day at the office and all you can think about is putting up your feet and unwinding from the craziness of the day. Perhaps, you're planning on taking some quality alone time after the work day by soaking in your hot tub. After all, you know balancing your professional aspirations with your fitness goals (along with a healthy dose of fun) is key to being your best self.

When you can't afford to be off your game, managing your stress is key to increasing productivity. Lounging in your very own heated spa is one of the most efficient ways to relax. After a whirlwind of a day, taking the time to decompress and reconnect with yourself, your significant other, or good friends is important to your overall wellness.

Over time, elevated and rapidly shifting levels of blood pressure caused by stress can lead to damaged arteries, plaque formation, and suppressed immunity. In an article by psychologist Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D., she states how "Self-inflicted attention deficit disorder, exhaustion, lack of focus, reduced health, and burnout" result from being hounded by external pressures and information overload.

Those are opposite results from what you are trying to achieve. Warm water immersion, on other other hand, has been shown to decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure by 11%. This same research found that those who soaked in a hot tub for 10 minutes had "increased feelings of well-being and decreased state anxiety."

Try This At Home

Take some time to focus on your breathing and clear your mind through meditation. While soaking, close your eyes and focus your attention on your breath. If you're having a hard time quieting your mind, add a simple mantra or word to your meditation practice. This can be a simple "om" sound or any other of these mantras for meditation.

When it comes to hydrotherapy and sore muscle relief, heart health, and stress reduction the key factor is to listen to your body. We hope these tips and insights help you find relief, but they are not intended to replace your doctor's advice.

Read more about the benefits of owning a hot tub:
http://www.bullfrogspas.com/blog/needs-hot-tub-benefits-hot-tub-ownership/

AUTHOR - Carri Hamilton
Carri Hamilton is the Editor-in-Chief for Bullfrog Spas