Can Hot Tub Therapy Help With Insomnia?

Can Hot Tub Therapy Help With Insomnia?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition where people have a hard time falling or staying asleep, or wake up feeling tired and not rested. Many people suffering from insomnia try several treatments to improve their sleep patterns from medication, relaxation techniques, and behavioral adjustments. However, have you heard that hot tub therapy may help with insomnia? While this may not be a conventional method, it is worth looking into.

Hot tub therapy is a form of hydrotherapy, which utilizes water to alleviate various aches, pains, and conditions, including insomnia. A hot tub is essentially a spa with water that is heated between 100-104 degrees Fahrenheit, and after sitting in the hot tub for some time, it can help to relax the body and mind, leading to better sleep.

In this article, we will explore the connection between insomnia and hot tub therapy and how it may help individuals who have insomnia.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

One of the main reasons hot tub therapy may be helpful in treating insomnia is that sitting in a hot tub can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Stress is one of the leading causes of insomnia. If a person’s mind is racing with stress and worry, it can be difficult to fall asleep. When sitting in the hot tub, the warmth and relaxation can help to ease the mind and body, leading to a reduction in stress levels. This peaceful state can encourage someone to fall asleep easily, rather than tossing and turning for hours.

Relaxes Muscles

A hot tub can help to relax muscles after a long day, which can also lead to better sleep. If someone is experiencing muscle aches and pains from a physically strenuous day, or just general muscle tension, the warmth of the spa can provide relief. As the body begins to relax and the muscles loosen up, it can make it easier to fall asleep, and the individual may feel less restless throughout the night.

Promotes Circulation

Hot tub therapy can also help to promote circulation, which can lead to better sleep. When sitting in a hot tub, the blood vessels in the body dilate, allowing for increased blood flow, the circulation of oxytocin and endorphins, often leading to a sense of calmness and peace. This increased circulation can help to reduce inflammation or soreness that may be causing discomfort, allowing one to sleep more soundly throughout the night.

Regulates Body Temperature

The body temperature should drop slightly before falling asleep, and hot tub therapy can help in this area. A warm soak in the hot tub 1-2 hours before bedtime may lower body temperature, and trigger the body’s response to regulate temperature by cooling off, which aids in falling asleep at night.

Readies the Body for Sleep

Many people use hot tubs before bed to improve their sleep, and there is evidence to support its effectiveness. The warm, soothing water of the hot tub paired with aromatherapy and soft music or nature sounds can create a relaxing environment that sets the body up for sleep. By spending time in the hot tub before going to bed, the body begins to calm down, leading to a more restful sleep.

How to Maximize the Benefits of Hot Tub Therapy

Hot tub therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution for insomnia, and there are specific steps one should take to receive maximum benefits of this therapy.

Stick to a Routine

It is essential to stick to the routine of using the hot tub regularly to see significant results. A routine practice of using the hot tub 30 minutes to one hour daily, and before bedtime, can lead to improved sleep patterns.

Use Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy may enhance hot tub therapy and relax the mind, leading to better sleep. Adding aromatherapy oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, may increase the relaxation experience.

Keep it Comfortable

Be careful not to overheat the body by spending excessive time in the hot tub at an insanely high temperature. Overheating can lead to more disruption of sleep cycles, which may lead to a poor night’s sleep. It’s essential to keep the water temperature below or at 104 Fahrenheit degrees for safety and optimal comfort levels.

Consult With A Professional

Before using hot tub therapy for insomnia, seek advice from a professional to determine if it’s safe for you. If you have any underlying health conditions like high blood pressure, joint pain, or any other health issues, hot tub therapy may not be suitable for you.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, hot tub therapy is a non-conventional method that people have used to alleviate insomnia, and there is scientific proof to support its effectiveness. However, hot tub therapy should not replace other sleep remedies and techniques but may be a helpful addition to your sleep routine for better sleep patterns. Utilizing the above guidelines, you could maximize the benefits of the hot tub therapy for more restful and restorative sleep.

Categorised in: Hot Tub Tips