Hot water bathing has been popular in many cultures for centuries. However, many people don’t release the hot tub health benefits that are on offer from a jacuzzi. Read on to find out 14 ways a Jacuzzi spa can improve your well-being from head to toe.
Benefits of a Soaking in a Hot Tub
1) Reduces blood sugar levels
Scientific research that those suffering from type 2 diabetes can lower their blood sugar levels with regular use of a hot tub
The temperature of the hot tub water increases blood flow which helps the body use insulin better and simulates physical exercise. You may be surprised to learn that a soak in a hot tub can reduce sugar levels more than say an hour’s cycling. Yes, isn’t it wonderful you are actually burning calories while you kick back and relax?
Great news if you or someone you know finds exercise difficult and for those suffering from this common and debilitating condition.
2) Prevents headaches
Do you suffer from migraines or painful headaches? You may think reaching for a packet of painkillers is the only option. The good news is; that studies have shown that regular use of a hot tub can ease and even prevent some headaches and have other excellent benefits.
So, how does soaking in a hot tub stop headaches? Let’s look at some of the common causes of a headache, like tension.
Migraine sufferers say they often experience tension headaches immediately before the onset of a migraine. A soak in a hot tub can help by relieving stress levels and relaxing muscles which can reduce the chances of a crippling, tension-triggered migraine.
Other types of headaches, which a regular soak in a hot tub can help with are the ones caused by congestion; the steaming water clears the sinuses and is a terrific way of fighting congestion, meaning these types of headaches can also be prevented
3) Pain Relief
A leisurely soak in a hot tub is fantastic for people suffering from ailments like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, back pain, fatigue, joint pain, stiffness and other aches and pains.
The buoyancy of the water creates a sense of weightlessness and circulation of the blood increases. In turn, this causes the tightness in muscles to relax resulting in reduced inflammation.
The body can experience increased flexibility in the hot tub water, which is why hydrotherapy is recommended by physiotherapists for those suffering knee, back or joint problems,
Spending time in a therapeutic hot tub can and does provide much-needed relief.
4) Are hot tubs good for your skin?
There are hundreds of creams and potions on the market claiming to improve the condition of your skin and promise younger-looking skin, but did you know that the treatment from soaking in your hot tub can have lasting benefits and can keep your skin in tip-top condition?
Anxiety and stress are two of the most common causes of breakouts and premature ageing and as we’ve already mentioned, time spent relaxing in a Jacuzzi lowers stress levels and offers relaxation which can help with both issues.
The hot water also opens up your pores and can clean any dirt or toxins that can cause spots.
Another benefit of a hot tub is; that as you unwind in the hot water, blood circulation increases meaning your body is delivering essential oxygen and nutrients more efficiently.
However, always be careful when getting in the hot tub because if you have sensitive skin, it can cause a rash through the chemicals that are in the water. This page has a great guide covering the best hot tub chemicals for sensitive skin.
5) Relieving anxiety and stress
We all lead busy lives. What with worrying about work, money and family it’s no wonder that more people than ever are admitting to feeling stressed. Consequently, we need to unwind sometimes and a relaxing soak in hot tubs is perfect for letting your cares drift away. The combination of soothing jets and reduction of pressure on the joints allow for a relaxing experience.
Stress and anxiety have been shown as contributing factors in numerous serious health issues including strokes and heart disease, along with several mental health problems such as depression.
Trying to reduce stress levels in the chaotic world we live in can be difficult but doing so has a positive effect on mental well-being.
6) Lowers Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is dangerous and is associated with several life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, kidney malfunction, strokes and hypertension. Recent studies have shown that sitting in the hot water lowers blood pressure.
This is achieved because the heat causes blood vessels to dilate resulting in increased levels of oxygen, reducing resistance in the heart,
Making a soak in a hot tub is fantastic for people who are at risk of heart disease
7) Promotes a good night’s sleep
Did you realise that almost half the population can’t get a good night’s sleep with almost 16 million of us suffering from mild to chronic insomnia? How many people have a bath before bed to ensure we can nod off?
Well, a hot tub has similar benefits. When your body is relaxed and warm, you will fall asleep faster and experience a night of much deeper sleep.
It has been scientifically proven that getting plenty of sleep has tons of positive effects on your well-being and overall health – from concentration, increased metabolism even your mood.
Your chances of not having to count sheep are much improved by a soak in a Jacuzzi, so get out there and enjoy a late-night soak under the stars with a glass of something chilled.
8) The common cold
One of the first symptoms of flu or a cold is a fever. They are your body’s defence mechanism against viruses.
Soaking in your hot tub can boost your immune system because the hot water increases your body’s temperature just like a fever and stops the cold virus from reproducing.
The steam from hot tubs also helps by easing congestion which relieves that bunged-up sensation and the massaging jets will help relax muscles and soothe the achy feeling associated with the flu. So, the next time you start to sneeze look no further than your own hot tub!
9) Are hot tubs good for your heart?
Cardiovascular disease is one of the UK’s biggest killers costing the government millions of pounds every year.
We all know that eating healthily, stopping smoking and regular exercise can improve your heart’s health but did you know immersing yourself in spas or hot tubs gives your heart a workout and has other great benefits.
This is because of the pressure the water puts on your body which in turn makes the heart beat faster, similar to jogging but without the effort.
However, the increased heart rate can cause problems for some, so it is advisable to check with your doctor first before looking at hot tubs.
10) Improves Range of Motion
With age and injuries to our body, joint pain can be an issue and we can lose certain flexibility and mobility in body parts. For some this process is gradual, whilst sudden injuries can make it swift for others. With regular use of a hot tub at least twice a week, the warm water creates hydrostatic pressure which in turn reduces the amount of inflammation around the joints and improves mobility. Your muscles also become more pliable because the hot water relaxes them and it creates almost a hot tub therapy.
Whilst in the warm water of the hot tub and near the hot tub jets, you can also do a variety of light stretches to improve flexibility.
11) Relieves Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is a common problem in society. Whether that’s acute or chronic, it can drastically affect your life depending on the severity. Normal everyday tasks such as driving, shopping and going to work can become a serious challenge.
Multiple studies over the years have shown that hydrotherapy improves lower back pain and many people report that the jets in a hot tub have a soothing effect on their back. This is one of the hot tub health benefits that can only really be tested by the individual as some have different results.
12) Improved Circulation
Cells and organs need vital nutrients and oxygen and these are carried through good circulation around the body. Lung and organ function are supported by this, as well as cell growth. Where a hot tub helps is that it increases your body temperature which will then dilate your blood vessels and allow for quicker circulation. This means less chronic pain and muscle tension and hot tubs help speed the healing process up.
13) Can Help With Fibromyalgia
One of the major jacuzzi health benefits is reducing pain. This is no more so than reducing the tension caused by Fibromyalgia. This is done by soaking in a hot tub which then increases the blood flow to stiff joints and reduces the amount of pain.
Also, some of the inflammation and swelling that has built up around those specific joints can be reduced therefore easing the pressure.
14) Clear The Head
A hot tub experience is not only enjoyable but can also improve cognitive function and offer clarity when thinking. This is due to a recent study that shows an increased blood flow to the brain when sitting in the hot tub.
This is just one of many ways that a hot tub helps improve the mind and body. From hot tub hydrotherapy to reducing sleep disorders and sometimes even weight loss. There is a whole host of hot tub benefits, the only way to find out is to test it yourself!
Are Hot Tubs Good For You?
The warm water and bubbles can have plenty of health benefits as our list shows.
If you are looking to buy a new model for the family, as a couple or even for a large group, make sure you head over to our inflatable hot tub review page for a comprehensive range of the latest models for 2023. If you are after a hot tub discount, we also have a dedicated page for deals which we update weekly.
You can view the various pros and cons of each hot tub model whilst also finding out about key features and the all-important one, price! If you need help maintaining hot tubs or a jacuzzi.
Conclusion
A soak in a hot tub is a pleasurable and relaxing experience and now you can enjoy your spa in the knowledge that it is also beneficial to your health and fantastic for your overall physical and mental well-being.
