We have all heard the stories of healing waters and their medical benefits, along with miraculous healing properties throughout the centuries. The Dead Sea is known for its high mineral concentrations in her salty liquid bounty of buoyancy which has been the stage for many tales of healings and health benefits over the millenniums. In recent times, “taking the cure” as it was known became popular in the twentieth century with places such as Vail, Steamboat Springs, and St Moritz offering soda soaks to help arthritis, TB, and general detoxifications of the body. Can this all be myth and suggestion or is there something real to aqua therapy, something we as a quick fix give me a pill society has forgotten over time, due to the fact we can never find the time. In this blog I invite you to explore with me the scientific facts as well as the fun factor of spa enjoyment.

We have all been on vacation where they offer pool and hot tub facilities on site. yes the pool is where we send the kids to play, while we bask in the sun on the sidelines on our lounge chairs, watching them splash their cares away. As adults, the appeal of kid’s cannon balling above our heads loses its appeal and we tend to hang out on the edge of the pool only as a cool down method not really enjoying the experience. As the temperature drops, the children settle for the night, we find ourselves wondering over to a steaming pool of relaxation with its promises of tranquility, surrendering to the bliss of jets and hot water. It’s a rejuvenating experience, leaving us feeling younger, refreshed and carefree, only to be awoken from this beautiful dream with the knowledge of the drive home and a bath tub that just won’t be the same, no matter how much Mr. Bubble we use.

Let us look at the scientific observations of the powers of water, beyond the necessity of this precious commodity but the benefits we all enjoy from its purifying properties. One of the most obvious benefits of aqua therapy is the buoyancy water gives you, allowing less stress on healing bones, aching muscles or poor blood circulation. The natural resistance of water lets an individual incorporate muscle strengthening with decreased joint stress that can not be experienced on land as well as hydrostatic pressure to decrease swelling and improve joint position awareness. Soothing warmth of water relaxes strained muscles by increasing blood flow through vessels allowing injuries to heal faster. The only restrictions for aqua therapy are people with cardiac disease, fevers or infections due to the nature of injury or illness, so always consult your physician if you are considering a hot tub for therapy or fun.

Even if you may not suffer from any ailment, spas can still be beneficial to anyone young or old. Families can benefit in more than an aqua therapy aspect of hot tubs, allowing family time, conversation, and cerebral games such as I Spy or who’s that spying over the fence. Children sleep better, parents enjoy the time spent, and everyone loves that bubbling sensation bringing giggles of delight. They can be used to entertain guests on a cold winter’s night, or rekindle a spark of romance between you and your partner. Again I must caution anyone who maybe drinking alcohol while using a hot tub, as it may cause drowsiness or even sickness.
 
Hot tubs come in many different shapes and styles with many features to choose from. There are plug n plays which hook up to 110 or 220, and are very affordable to the economic consumer or self-cleaners that allow the least maintenance with the most enjoyment. So what ever models you decide remember what you will use it for therapy and fun.

Amy Carlucci Aqua Enthusiast