You’ve heard it said time and again: if you’re going to use your hot tub, do it for 20 minutes, every day if possible. Why this amount of time? Well, research done by Dr. Bruce Becker of Washington State University reveals that it’s the most beneficial to the body. Here’s why:
The buoyancy of the water relieves the pressure of gravity on the joints. This is especially beneficial for someone that is physically active, such as a runner or “gym rat.” This is also a great benefit for someone suffering from arthritis or lax joint concerns. Not to mention the preventative benefits of a 20 minute Caldera hot tub soak long before these problems arise.
Our respiratory muscles work up to 60% harder under when the body is immerse, strengthening them and building breathing endurance. Water is, of course, denser than air. That means there is some pressure put on your torso while sitting in a hot tub, which requires your lungs to work a little harder to expand as you breathe. And, of course, working your muscles always makes them stronger.
Warm/hot water immersion of this time frame has the same effect on the nervous system as meditation. Studies conducted by the National Aquatics & Sports Medicine Institute revealed that the sensitivity of our fight or flight response (sympathetic nervous system) is lesson during immersions in at least 102 degrees.
“As an individual is sitting in warm water, the body regulates itself in a way to essentially to essentially increase a relaxation response and decrease a stress response,” Dr. Becker says.
It’s important to note that you can stay in your Caldera Spa much longer than 20 minutes if you like, but Dr. Becker found that the benefits don’t increase if you’re in the water longer – 20 minutes is the sweet spot when it comes to hot tub usage.
So if you’re looking to feel better, relieve stress and create margin in your life in 2017, a 20 minute hot tub soak each day may do the trick.