Benefits of Hydrotherapy (Part 2)

Part 1

     In the last installment of our Benefits of Hydrotherapy Series, I covered some of the many benefits of owning a spa. Part 1 focused on mainly the physical benefits on the body that hydrotherapy can provide. In this installment, you will be learning about the mental health benefits of owning a spa.
     Hot tubs can be extremely beneficial to one's mental health. Studies have shown that hydrotherapy greatly reduces the levels of Cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a powerful stress hormone that when released in high amounts, can cause lack of energy, decreased thinking abilities, and muscle breakdown. One way to maximize this Cortisol-blocking effect is to use your hot tub as a place of meditation. Studies show that meditation shares many of the same benefits as hydrotherapy. Combining the two could be a very powerful weapon against stress.
     Studies show that hot tubs and spas can actually prevent mental burnout. Researchers think this may be related to Cortisol, but whatever the reason, it has been shown that using a spa can keep you going strong at work or during any times of stress. I personally use my hot tub every day after work. It works very well to melt away the stresses of the day and helps me to focus more on the bigger picture.
      Did you know that owning a spa can actually increase productivity? Much like meditation, hydrotherapy has been shown to enhance mindfulness and increase productivity (and self-reported levels of happiness).  This enhanced mindfulness has been discussed in many productivity books, notably, The Productivity Project, because an increase in mindfulness is associated with less burnout, less mistakes, and less distractions. Who knew owning a hot tub could do so much for your career!
     Mindfulness is also associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety, and higher reates of self-reported quality of life. Anybody who regularly uses their spa can attest to this. When you get into a spa and experience its hydrotherapy benefits, the stress seems to melt away and the minor things no longer seem to cloud the bigger picture. Decision-making becomes easier. I personally have found that a combination of  meditation and hydrotherapy has done more towards my mental well-being than any medication has even come close to.
     Many people are experiencing first hand the mental benefits of owning a hot tub. For more information on hydrotherapy and mental health, or any questions, please leave a comment or email and I will be happy to send a reply!

​[email protected] -Mister Spas of Charlotte, NC