Soaking in a hot mineral spring is a form of hydrothermal therapy, used to improve health and treat disease and injury since ancient times. The website holisticonline.com notes that ancient Greeks practiced therapeutic bathing and traditional Native American and Chinese medicines use water in healing practices. Hot mineral springs found renewed popularity in the 19th century. President Franklin Roosevelt's use of mineral springs at Warm Springs, Georgia, brought international attention to mineral springs' benefits for polio patients. Soaking in the warmth of the hot mineral spring does more than just feel good. Doctors acknowledge therapeutic benefits of moist heat.
Pain relief
Doctors often recommend the application of heat (moist or dry) to relieve the pain and stiffness of arthritis. The website webmd.com notes that heat reduces muscles spasms and alters the sensation of pain. In treating arthritis pain, moist heat should be used for at least 15 minutes before exercise and then used again immediately after exercise, the website reads. Soaking in a hot mineral spring gives the effect of a nice, long moist heat application for joints and muscles in pain.
Improved blood circulation
Because heat dilates blood vessels, it stimulates circulation, an effect noted on the website webmd.com in a discussion of heat treatment for arthritis. Better circulation boosts the health of all the body's tissues, carrying oxygen and nourishment to the cells.
Stress reduction
A warm soak in a hot spring relaxes muscles, soothing the body and relieving stress. Stress is more than a mental outlook. It causes muscles to tighten up, provoking spasms. Soaking in a hot mineral spring is a pleasant way to counteract stress.
Better breathing
Breathing in steamy vapors has long been noted as a way to loosen mucus, relieve sinus congestion and open breathing passages. A long session of breathing warm vapors can even help clear out the lungs.
Not for everyone
Although there are therapeutic benefits to hot mineral springs, certain health conditions give reason for caution. Pregnant women and people with diabetes, high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease should avoid soaking in hot water because it can provoke health problems for them.
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