Are you feeling tense and overwhelmed? Do your muscles and joints ache? Do you wish you could find a natural way to rid your body of harmful toxins? A trip to a natural hot spring may just be the very thing you need. For centuries, people all around the world have noticed therapeutic benefits from soaking in natural hot springs. While not all of these claims have been thoroughly studied, the anecdotal evidence is strong. These are just some of the health and beauty benefits of hot springs that you may experience.
Boosted Circulation
Hot springs frequently contain higher quantities of minerals, such as calcium and sodium bicarbonate. These minerals may accelerate your circulatory system, allowing you to oxygenate your body more efficiently. The increased oxygen flow throughout your body is good for your heart, your cognitive function, and will help your skin look healthy and clear.
Pain Relief
You have likely experienced pain relief from soaking in hot water at some point in your life. The soothing heat of the hot springs is boosted by the helpful minerals naturally found in the water. The hot springs allow your muscles to relax, decreasing tension and pain in muscles and tendons. The minerals in many hot springs allow you to floating more easily. Floating in the warm water can also bring relief to sore joints.
Fewer Toxins
Sweating is one of your body’s ways to naturally rid itself of toxins. By soaking in the warm water of the hot springs, your sweat levels will increase which allows your body to sweat out more of those toxins. It is often recommended that bathers do a cold plunge after a soak in a hot spring to flush off toxins and close the pores.
Soothed Skin
Those with certain skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, may see relief of their symptoms after a plunge in a mineral-rich hot spring. Even those without these conditions may see an improvement. The silica and sulfur in many hot springs can help ease inflammation in your skin, making it more vibrant and soft.
Reduced Stress
Even if your body does not respond to hot springs with increased circulation or detoxification, you can still see health benefits from the springs. The warm water will help you to relax and de-stress, which can have positive effects on your health. A trip to a hot spring can lower blood pressure, relax tense muscles, and help you get a good night’s sleep. We already know the wonderful health and beauty benefits of all these things!
Before You Go
Before you plan any change to your health routine, it is always a good idea to check with your doctor. Pregnant women and people with cardiovascular conditions should probably avoid hot springs altogether. There is also a slight risk of bacterial infections, so be sure to visit only reputable hot springs and follow their guidelines for good hygiene.
Which hot spring is your favorite to visit? We have made our own list of our favorite hot springs. Did your favorite make our list? Let us know in the comments below!