Mental health depends on multiple factors, ranging from your genetics to your environment. But one particular activity can have a significant impact on your mental well-being: self-care. Without investing time and effort in yourself to care for both your mental and physical health, it can be hard to encourage personal growth.

Many people have learned from experience that hydrotherapy is an invaluable form of self-care that can result in significantly improved mental health. This simple ritual could be a perfect addition to your self-care routine. Let’s take a look at just a few ways spending a little time in a hot tub can improve both your physical and mental health.

Take the time to focus on your mental health and practice self-care habits throughout 2020. Here’s how to start with an excellent self-care habit: hydrotherapy! #SpasUnlimited Click To Tweet

Burn Calories

A 2017 study suggests that soaking for an hour in a hot bath can burn about 130 calories, equivalent to going for a 30-minute walk. That’s a pretty significant comparison! As your body heats up, your heart rate increases and your body works harder to prevent you from overheating, burning more calories in the process. If you aren’t able to get in your recommended exercise, taking a long, hot bath could be a reasonable substitute.

Improved Circulation

An increased heart rate in a hot tub certainly burns more calories, but that’s not all. As your heart pumps faster, it causes better blood circulation and, consequently, lower blood pressure. With enough time spent in the hot tub, your circulation will improve more and more and allow your body to heal from the inside out.

Pro Tip: Measure your heart rate in and out of the hot tub to see what effect the heat has on you. This gives you an accurate idea of how to improve your health.

Hormone Balance

Your body releases endorphins, mood-boosting neurotransmitters, in response to warmth on your skin. Studies have shown that endorphins are produced when you’re exposed to sunlight or heat from a hot bath. And as any mental health professional knows, a healthy amount of endorphins (and knowing how to prompt your body to release them) is crucial to maintaining your mental health. Take the time to soak in your hot tub to encourage your body to produce these natural antidepressants!

Treat Yourself with a Hot Tub

While it’s still a good idea to visit a healthcare professional for in-depth mental health treatment, self-care is an excellent step in the right direction. And why not add a proven method like hydrotherapy to your self-care habits? The boost to your physical health will help your mental health improve and give you the emotional relief you need.

Join the conversation to learn more about using your hot tub for health and wellness.