The National Center of Sleep Disorder Research reported that around 1 out of 5 Americans suffer from sleep disorder. This problem has lead to a number of issues including accidents, medication, and more – all amounting to almost $16 billion in the health care bill every year.
Fortunately, treating sleep disorder can be as accessible than what you might think. We’re talking about soaking yourself in a hot tub. Though we mostly associate it with a place where we can soothe our aching muscles or hang out with our friends or family, turns out there are actually several benefits you can get from a hot tub – one of them is getting a better sleep.
But is it really possible? If so, how?
Does soaking in a hot tub help you sleep better?
There’s been a growing number of individuals who claimed that having an evening session in their hot tub lets them sleep better. There’s actually clinical evidence to support this claim. Our body’s internal temperature naturally wanes during nighttime and will reach a low point at around 4 AM. By getting a 15-minute session in a hot tub, you’ll be able to give your body a slight rise in temperature which is exactly what you need to kickstart the “cooling off” process, thereby allowing you to get a good night sleep.
Moreover, the National Sleep Foundation stated that you can significantly improve the likelihood of getting the best sleep possible by establishing a regular bedtime routine which includes a session in a hot tub.
How can a hot tub help with sleep?
In case you’re wondering, these are how having a hot tub session before sleeping can result in a better sleep:
It relaxes your mind
By soaking in warm water, you’ll be able to relax your mind. After all, your body needs a break after all the stresses you’ve experienced from a long day at work. Soaking in a hot tub will send calming messages to your brain, thereby reducing your overall stress levels.
It improves your body’s circulation
Having a hot tub session promotes better circulation which is important for reducing your stress levels and even lowering your blood pressure. Aside from that, it can also slow down your heart rate, allowing you to get a relaxing sleep.
It decompresses your joints
If you’re suffering from joint pains, soaking in a hot tub before sleeping can help soothe those pains. This is because the buoyancy of the warm water will decompress your joints, making it possible for you to sleep comfortably.
It increases your body’s temperature
Your body’s temperature will obviously increase by soaking in a hot tub. This is actually a good thing before you get to sleep. However, as you get into bed, your body’s temperature will start dropping, giving your body a signal that it’s about time to sleep.
What other things to consider?
Soaking in a hot tub, however, isn’t the only way you can sleep better. You can also take note of the following:
Read a book or listen to a relaxing music
For some people, reading can help them get to sleep better. However, some would prefer listening to relaxing music. Regardless, choose one which you think suits you best. Just keep in mind that you need to avoid the use of electronic sources such as a laptop or tablet as it can only keep you awake.
Maintain a cool room temperature
Another way to help you sleep better is to keep your bedroom’s temperature cool, preferably between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit. Aside from that, it should also be free of any noise or distraction.
Get regular exercise
According to the Appalachian State University, maintaining a daily morning exercise routine will reduce your blood pressure and help you get a good night sleep. Therefore, getting a regular exercise is really helpful to let you sleep better.
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