Cardiovascular disease is still the leading cause of death across the globe, so prioritizing heart health is one of the best things you can do for your body. Maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and closely following your doctor’s recommendations are all foundational for the health of your heart. However, there are other things you can do to promote cardiovascular health and prevent problems in the future. One of these is the use of hot tub therapy to relax the body and promote healthy circulation. At Wind River Spas in Denver, CO, we specialize in chemical-free hot tubs to help the members of our community in Colorado unwind while supporting a healthier lifestyle.
How Hot Tubs Mimic Exercise for Heart Health
While it can’t replace exercise completely, hot tub therapy can offer many benefits that are similar to light exercise like walking or yoga. Soaking in the warm water gently raises your body temperature which dilates (or expands) your blood vessels and increases the circulation of blood throughout your body. This is similar to the process that your body goes through during physical activity and is why both of these activities are beneficial for the heart. Hot tubs can help simulate these effects while minimizing some of the strain that more vigorous types of exercise can sometimes place on the joints.
Blood Pressure Benefits of Hot Tub Soaking
Regular hot tub use can help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels by encouraging your body to relax and by improving vascular function. The heat from the water helps to lower stress hormones like cortisol which in turn may reduce constriction in your arteries. With regular use, this can help lower your blood pressure levels and offer gentle support for your heart health while also reducing many of the other symptoms that can come with high blood pressure.
Broader Health Benefits of Hot Tubs
Muscle Relaxation
When you soak in a hot tub, it can help relieve any muscle tension you have stored in your body. It does this through the warm temperatures and buoyancy. Heat is helpful for soothing tight muscles and the water’s buoyant force reduces pressure on your joints and connective tissues. By combining these two benefits, you can find relief after a long day or intense physical activity and reduce some of the stress on the body from daily life.
Improved Circulation
When exposed to warm temperatures, your blood vessels in the body dilate. After getting out of the tub and being exposed to normal temperatures again, the blood vessels contract again. This enhances blood flow throughout the body and makes it easier for oxygen and nutrients to get where they need to go. Improved circulation supports faster recovery and benefits your cardiovascular health while also helping you feel more energetic throughout the day.
Stress Relief
Stress is a major cause of health problems, affecting everything from heart health to mood and energy levels. The calming environment of your hot tub gives you space to relax physically and mentally after a hard day. The warm water and the pressure of the jets release endorphins which can counteract the stress hormones released during the day and help your body unwind. Regular hot tub use can put you in a healthier state of mind and help you manage your stress so that you don’t experience as many negative symptoms in your body.
What the Research Says About Hot Tubs and Heart Rate
A study was published in 1993 in Mayo Clinic Proceedings by Thomas G. Allison and colleagues that explores the cardiovascular effects of hot tub use. In this study, a group of men with stable coronary artery disease were instructed to spend 15 minutes in a hot tub one day followed by 15 minutes of cycling the next. After each of these sessions, the researchers monitored their health metrics including heart rate, blood pressure, and any cardiovascular symptoms.
They found that hot tub use caused lower peak heart rates and lower blood pressure compared to exercise. There were also no serious cardiovascular symptoms or complications after soaking in a hot tub. The study found that, while stress-related markers like plasma norepinephrine rose during the 15 minutes of cycling, these markers did not rise during hot tub use. This study concluded that, for men with stable heart disease, controlled hot tub use can be both safe and beneficial.
Why Heart Patients Should Consult Their Doctor Before Use
If you have a heart condition, it is always important to consult your doctor before incorporating any type of hot tub therapy into your wellness routine. Different factors like blood pressure, heart rate variability, and your overall cardiovascular health can impact how your body responds to this type of therapy. By seeking your doctor’s advice, you can enjoy your hot tub while being confident that it is safe and beneficial for you.
Safety Tips for Hot Tub Use
Limit Your Soak Time
Prolonged hot tub sessions can put unnecessary strain on your body and make you feel faint. To stay safe, limit your soaks to around 15-20 minutes once or twice per day. If you are new to hot tub therapy, take it slow and work up to a longer soaking time. This will help your body adjust to the warmth without overexertion.
Consider the Optimal Temperature for Cardiovascular Safety
The right temperature can also impact the safety and effectiveness of your soak. We recommend keeping your tub between 98℉ and 104℉. Your doctor may recommend keeping it at a slightly lower temperature for cardiovascular concerns.
Hydration and Avoiding Alcohol
You should stay hydrated both before and after your soak in the hot tub. The heat from the tub can cause your body to lose more fluids due to sweat. Keep a water bottle nearby (glass is not recommended in hot tubs), and sip it regularly to avoid dehydration. Avoid consuming alcohol while in the hot tub since this can amplify the effects of the heat and potentially lead to dizziness or other health risks.
Support Your Heart Health and Overall Wellness With the Comfort of a Hot Tub
Hot tubs can give you a blend of relaxation and health benefits, from supporting cardiovascular health to relieving stress and easing joint discomfort. If you’re looking to unwind after a long day or you are interested in exploring the potential for improved heart health, a hot tub can be a great addition to your home and wellness routine. If you’re ready to experience these benefits for yourself, contact Wind River Spas in Denver, CO, at (303) 789-2656. We’d love to help you learn more about our chemical-free hot tubs made specifically for Colorado!