After a busy day at work, all we want to do is get home and relax. There are a few things that can be more relaxing than spending some time soaking in a hot tub or sitting in a sauna. The hot environment that both provide is a comfortable way to get rid of all the stress and tension in your body, which, if not addressed, can impact your health.
Even though spas and saunas follow the same principle of using heat to provide relaxation to the body, there is a great difference in how they work. You can choose to use both or one after another, depending on your requirements and preferences. Sitting in a sauna helps your body get rid of the toxins, but for some people, the extreme heat can be really uncomfortable. Excess sweating in a sauna can also lead to dehydration and hyperthermia. A spa, on the other hand, keeps water at a particular temperature and offers features like bubble jets for massaging. Can’t decide which one to choose? Let us help you out.
Hot Tub
A pool spa is a tub filled with water that is heated with jetting to move and circulate water and air (bubbles). It is used primarily for hydrotherapeutic relaxation and gentle water massages, which can be very beneficial to your health. Hydrotherapy is good for pain relief, anxiety and stress relief. A hot tub is a great addition to any home – it is the ideal way for families or couples to spend some quality time together. Aside from being relaxing and rejuvenating, spa tubs can also kick your interior design up a notch.
Unless you are planning to build your own spa tub, installing one is easy. As long as you have the needed space and a floor that can withstand the combined weight of the tub and water in it, you can just buy one and install it wherever you want. And if you’re wondering how much maintenance is a hot tub, there are two important things to consider – efficiency and sanitation. Aside from regular water chemistry check-ups, you will also have to replace the water from time to time. The filler for the spa should also be always clean. If the spa tub is placed indoors, it is necessary to ensure proper ventilation of the room to prevent mildew and mould growth.
If you’re wondering ‘how often can I use a hot tub?’, you’ll be happy to know that you can use your spa tub every day for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Keep in mind that most of the benefits that spa tubs provide depend on your frequency of use. Consider starting your day immersed in your spa to feel more energized, positive and in a good mood. Soaking for 15 minutes before going to bed can help you wind down your body and mind and promote restful sleep.
Sauna
Spending time in a sauna will improve your circulation, lymphatic and immune system. The massive perspiration will also help you have cleaner skin. Sportsmen and fitness enthusiasts can benefit greatly from saunas. Spending 15-20 minutes in these units can flush out toxins from the body, relax your muscles, and soothe aches and pains associated with physical exertion.
When it comes to materials, a sauna is cheaper to build. This is especially true when it comes to building a traditional steam model. Maintaining it is also easier and it typically involves making sure it is clean when not in use and leaving the door open to allow air inside for it to better dry. Make sure you sit on a towel while soaking to prevent leaving perspiration marks or stains.
The biggest downside of having a sauna is the fact that it takes up more space and it is more complex to install. You will need to have enough space in your home to install a sauna. Installation can also be an issue – you will need to build a foundation for it. This means that you will most likely need a professional to do the job.
When it comes to how often you should use a sauna, it all depends on your well-being. As long as you feel good, taking a sauna bath daily is not harmful. However, one to three sauna sessions a week is ideal. Too many sauna sessions could weaken your body. After the session, make sure you drink enough water to balance out your loss of fluids.
Benefits of Hot Tubs and Saunas
When it comes to weight loss, both options are good. Spending about 20 minutes in the sauna or spa can raise your metabolism. As a matter of fact, the increase is similar to having a long walk. It is important to mention that the weight loss you experience during your time in the sauna or spa tub is temporary as it is caused by dehydration that you experience while taking a bath or sauna. Chances are, you will gain back the weight after you rehydrate. The increased metabolic rate you will experience is the greatest benefit you will enjoy for your weight loss.
Both options will help improve your sleep – just make sure to take a good long soak before going to bed. A deeper sleep will help your brain restore itself to its regular functions and process memories better. The heat from the sauna and the tub is like the one you experience when you exercise for a while, which aids the brain’s sleep centre.