I don’t know about you, but I am sick of the cold this winter. It’s already February – which means the worst of winter is probably over. But what better way to get away from the cold than to sit in a hot tub?
I know, most of you probably don’t have a hot tub at your house. I don’t. But the local gym is a good option – although probably half of gyms don’t have one either. If your gym doesn’t have one, I encourage you to join one that does.
The gym I go to is relatively expensive. From the spa alone, I probably reap the benefits of my membership, as I usually go relax every other day. Even during the summer. I find the hot tub therapeutic, in MANY ways:
- I seem to sleep better after soaking before I go to bed. I am more relaxed, and enter a deeper sleep.
- Stress is vastly decreased. Obviously.
- Speeds up circulation.
- Joint and muscle pain is decreased. Promotes relaxation.
- Lower blood pressure.
- Eliminates toxins through circulation. The toxins are literally sweat out from your body.
- After a workout, it is just awesome. It conditions and promotes healing after you just worked your muscles.
- Elevates heart rate, like cardio does! This is not a substitution for running on the treadmill, though…
- Relief from diabetes and arthritis. (Check with your doctor first).
Last time I was sick, I wanted to give my body a rest from working out. Instead, I soaked every day in the hot tub. I think I honestly got over my cold faster than I would have, should I have not gone to the spa. You should try this next time you’re sick, I guarantee you will feel better FASTER!
I recommend going to the hot tub every other day for 15 minutes. If you have any heart conditions or health problems, consult your doctor first. I find the best therapy is going in for 15 minutes, out for 10 minutes, and back in for another for 15 minute round – if you have a lot of free time that day. Most hot tubs are between 99-104 degrees, and my body seems to adjust to the temperature pretty quickly.
Best times to go:
- End of the day after work.
- Right after workout. You can also “prime” your muscles right before a workout. I prefer to go afterwards.
- Anytime you can allow yourself to escape. Late at night when few people are at the gym’s spa.
Take that, winter!