Staying cool in your hot tub

Many folks steer clear of their hot tub in the summer time when it gets hotter outside. Our big question is, “Why?” Consistent hot tub use year round is the key to keeping your body and mind healthier and happier. In fact, when we become more active in the summer months, a hot tub can absolutely be key to help ease achy muscles or joints and help you ready your body to fall asleep on those warm summer nights.

 

It may sound like an oxymoron, but there are things you can do to actually help you stay cool while you soak when it’s warmer. Just a few easy things will help you get the most out of your hot tub and keep you soaking with pleasure.

 

  • Drop the temperature. Don’t go crazy with this! Since your body is at 98.6°, dropping the temp even one or two degrees from your favorite temperature year round can make a big difference. If you drop your ideal temp down two degrees, you’ll absolutely notice the change and be able to endure the heat longer. When you get to about 100°, the water will likely feel much cooler and refreshing and still give you good hot tub soaking benefits.
  • Enter slowly, exit slowly. If the outdoor temperatures have been on the high side, entering and exiting the hot tub slowly helps your body acclimate to the temp changes. This will aide your body to adapt to the new temperature of the water and ward off any lightheadedness.
  • Hydrate! Water is obviously a good answer to keep your body hydrated. When it’s been a hot day, drink plenty of water before you even take your soak, hydrate while you soak, and continue to do so when you’re finished hot tubbing. In the summer time, other terrific non-alcoholic beverages can really be refreshing: lemonade, iced tea, San Pellegrino Italian Sparkling Sodas (Limonata or Blood Orange—yum!) are all great options.
  • Keep your forehead cool. Here’s a great idea to help regulate body temperature while soaking: take a bowl of cool water with lavender and a wash cloth to the tub. Dip the cloth in the lavender water and create a cool compress for your forehead. It will smell good, feel good and help you endure the heat!

 

Don’t let your hot tub turn into lonely garden art this summer! Take advantage of it and all of the health benefits throughout those lovely summer nights.