Immersion in warm water produces hydrostatic pressure on the body that results in reduced joint inflammation and increased mobility. The Arthritis Foundation notes, “soothing warmth and buoyancy of warm water makes it a safe, ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness.”

According to a study in the scientific journal Sleep, a drop in body temperature can also aid in easing the body into a relaxing and sound sleep. By taking a 15-minute soak in a hot tub about 90 minutes before attempting to sleep, your body temperature can drop to enable a better nights sleep naturally without the grogginess sometimes caused by prescription remedies. Sleep improvement may also be related to hot water’s relaxing properties – the buoyancy of water reduces body weight by approximately 90%, relieving pressure on joints and muscles, creating the sensation of weightlessness. The hot, swirling water leaves you feeling both mentally and emotionally relaxed.