Soaking in natural hot springs has long been a cultural tradition for relaxation and healing. But recent research is revealing some surprising health benefits from this ancient practice. The hot mineral-rich water and negative ion-rich vapors of hot springs may boost your health and well-being in several ways. Here are 8 surprising health benefits of soaking in natural hot springs:
1.   Relieves Stress and Reduces Anxiety
The warm waters of hot springs soothe the body and promote relaxation. Soaking in a hot spring helps lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, while also raising dopamine and serotonin levels, the feel-good hormones. The combination of warmth and minerals leads to reduced stress and anxiety for many people.
2.   Alleviates Pain From Muscles And Joints
The buoyancy of geothermal water takes the pressure off your muscles, joints, and bones. This makes hot springs an ideal therapy for pain relief from conditions like arthritis or injuries. The warm, mineral-rich water also increases blood flow to the muscles, helping to relax them and aid in pain relief. Many hot springs near Denver and other locations see visitors with muscle and joint pain seeking natural relief.
3.   Promotes Better Sleep
A soak in hot springs before bed can help induce relaxation and raise body temperature. When you get out of the warm water, your body temperature will decrease, signaling to your body that it’s time for rest. The warming and cooling effects, combined with reduced cortisol levels, can lead to improved sleep quality and duration.
4.   Improves Respiratory Health
The moist heat and mineral particles help loosen mucus and make it easier to breathe. The sulfates in many hot springs also have an anti-inflammatory effect. This can provide relief for respiratory problems such as allergies or congestion.
5.   Improves Skin Health
The mineral-rich waters of hot springs have beautifying effects, especially waters high in silica. Silica helps strengthen collagen, softens skin, and repairs skin cells. Other skin benefits include improving hydration, increasing circulation, exfoliating dead skin cells, and relieving conditions like eczema or psoriasis. Soaking in hot springs can give you a natural glow by promoting skin health and rejuvenation.
6.   Detoxifies The Body
The minerals in hot spring water may help remove toxins from the body through sweating. The heat from the water causes vasodilation, increasing blood flow. This helps carry waste products and toxins out of the body. Sweating also releases heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and mercury from deep tissue.
7.   May Boost Immunity
Some research indicates geothermal mineral water can positively impact the immune system. The increased blood circulation in warm water carries oxygen throughout the body, which is beneficial for the immune system and various systems in the body. Mineral absorption may also play a role, with certain minerals like sulfur supporting immune function.
8.   Relieves Congestion
The moist heat and mineral particles help loosen mucus and make it easier to breathe. The sulfates in many hot springs also have an anti-inflammatory effect. This can provide relief for respiratory problems such as allergies or congestion.
To Wrap Up
The healing powers of natural hot springs have endured for good reason. While modern medicine has advanced, geothermal mineral waters still provide therapeutic benefits for wellness and relief from various ailments when used properly. A soak in hot springs provides a natural remedy for relaxation, pain relief, skin health, sleep, improved immunity, and detoxification. No spa experience can quite replicate the stress-relieving benefits of 100% natural geothermal pools. Find a hot spring near you and experience nature’s gift for total mind and body restoration.
