How often have you paused in your day to take a breath?
Unplug?
We live crazy lives and because of that, many times our health—mental, physical,
emotional, and even spiritual lives—get pushed back or forgotten.
If we live this way for too long, we can easily burn out.
Instead, it’s important to make time every day to take care of yourself and your
overall health.
One way to do this is through the healing attributes associated with hydrotherapy.
“For thousands of years, hydrotherapy—
known as “the water cure” in early times—
has been a great source of
therapeutic healing.”
In ancient times, people would travel to bathhouses and other communal spas to enjoy
the benefits of soaking in warm water.
Evidence has also shown hydrotherapy helps treat different types of soft tissue and bone
injuries which allows individuals to use the buoyancy of the water to exercise with less
stress on their joints.
For those who suffer from arthritis and other aches, hot tubs are great to practice low
impact exercises.
Some of the more popular ones are hot tub yoga and water aerobics.
Hydrotherapy and Mental Health
Stress is a natural part of our lives, and plays a major role in how we react to our
environment.
Finding ways to relieve that stress is important, not only to our mental and emotional
health, but for our physical as well.
Prolonged stress can lead to lead to cardiovascular problems, depression, high blood
pressure, and infertility.
One way to relieve stress is to soak in a hot tub or warm bath.
The soothing effects of the water can help balance your nervous system and it’s believed
that warm water immersion releases the hormone, dopamine which helps our bodies
combat the harmful effects of stress.
By taking 10-20 minutes each day to soak, you can improve your mental and emotional health.
Enrich the hydrotherapy experience by incorporating aromatherapy.
Add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, cedarwood, frankincense, or orange, into
the water.
The smells of the oil can aid in your relaxation and restore your body’s balance.
While you’re soaking, this is the perfect time to sit quietly, take deep breaths, and think
peaceful thoughts for additional relaxation and stress relief.
Water Exercises
Hydrotherapy is great for helping soothe stiff muscles and joints, reduce swelling, and
assist in your overall recovery after a tough workout.
Try some hot tub yoga and other exercises to improve your body’s overall health.
For those suffering from arthritis, back problems, or other physical pain, water exercises
are great for providing you with additional support.
The warm water helps to loosen stiff joints, improving your flexibility and mobility, and
can help with balance.
The buoyancy of the warm water can better assist those who suffer with arthritis and other
physical ailments by providing the joints with additional support for easier and unrestricted
movements.
Plus, with water exercises, you can move through your routine without the fear of falling and
causing your body any further injury.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy has other health benefits in addition to stress management and improved flexibility.
Through the hydro massage features associated with most hot tubs, hydrotherapy boosts brain
power (through meditation and visualization techniques), improves circulation, detoxifies the body,
and relieves joint pain.
According to Arthritis.org, those who suffer from arthritis and fibromyalgia found that soaking in
warm water at least 2-3 times a week reduced their pain by 40% and their physical function increased.
Remember before you begin any health regimen or new exercise program, always speak with your doctor.
About the Author
Danielle Adams is a freelance writer who works with Bullfrog Spas. When she’s not writing, Danielle
enjoys spending time doing yoga, practicing meditation, and spending time with friends.
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Have you used hydrotherapy for your health and wellness?
Share your thoughts and comments with us?
“Shared on Kind and Healthy Fridays”
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Thanks for sharing at #LetsGetRealSocial Link Party. It seems like people were moving away from baths….take too long, but there are benefits as you stated and we need to find time to slow down. Why not do it in a bath or hot tub and get the benefits of slowing down as well as the benefits from water.
Hi Karen,
You’re right, but once I get into a healthy soaking spa bath, I never want to get out. It’s such a healthy pleasure.
I seriously hate yoga, but hot tub yoga sounds amazing! Going to google it right now!
Hi Amber,
Ha Ha! I am sure hot tub yoga would be very relaxing!
Oh man, I wish i could do this right now lol!! Sounds absolutely wonderful. Thanks for sharing this on my weekly linkup!
Hi Randi,
Whenever I go to a health spa or retreat I always take advantage of their hydrotherapy treatments however we can also create a healing spa in our own homes as well.