The 5 healing benefits of hydrotherapy

Water has long been viewed as a way to heal and soothe, as well as to hydrate. The concept of hydrotherapy is essentially using water to support recovery and promote physical wellbeing and today it’s often most accessible via a home hot tub, sauna or swim spa. If you’re keen to find out more about how hydrotherapy might contribute to your lifestyle then there are five healing benefits to note.

1. Providing immune support

Especially during the winter months our immune systems can take quite a battering. Hydrotherapy works to increase the flow of blood around the body and boost white blood cells. Lymph, which is an essential bodily fluid for the immune system that effectively removes unwanted materials, is then able to move more freely through the body, boosting the immune system so that you’re less susceptible to colds etc.

2. Getting rid of toxins

Whether you’ve had a stressful few weeks and been eating and drinking badly as a result or you’re just keen to get ready for the party season, hydrotherapy can help where detoxification is concerned. Heated hydrotherapy, such as a sauna or a steam room, makes the body sweat, triggering its most effective mechanism for removing toxins from the system. This can help with everything, from clearer skin to reducing headaches.

3. Effective pain relief

One of the biggest benefits of hydrotherapy is the fact that it triggers the release of endorphins, which have a crucial role to play in relieving pain. The weightlessness of the body in water can also take stress off tired and aching joints and muscles, reducing inflammation so that it’s much less painful to move, both in and out of the water. Hydrotherapy can be a particularly effective option if you’re recovering after a workout or looking for a way to help manage chronic pain.

4. Dealing with stress and tension

Stress is a major cause of many of the problems that we struggle with today and can have a range of uncomfortable effects that are both emotional and physical. Hydrotherapy is a great way to start managing stress differently. Regular sessions can help to reduce blood pressure and the endorphin release provided by the water can also work to reduce anxiety. Plus, warm water tends to relax us physically, which can slow down both a racing heart and a racing mind.

5. Support for injury

Hydrotherapy is commonly used by athletes and professional sports people who deal with injuries on a regular basis. It can also help to provide progress and relief for every day issues where joints or muscles have become damaged. This is because warm water will boost blood flow around the body, which will reduce pain. An increase in circulation works to rehabilitate and heal injured muscles, tissues and joints.

Especially at this time of year when wellness moves to the top of everyone’s agenda, hydrotherapy has a lot to offer. These key healing benefits are just some of the ways in which this type of physical therapy can be beneficial.