The joy of saunas, hot tubs & pools

There can be few greater pleasures than basking in a sauna, pool or bubbling hot tub and nursing weary limbs after a full-on day on the slopes. Some may also be tempted to indulge in a relaxing massage during their week in the mountains. Of course, we all know how good it makes us feel, but there are health benefits too.

Soaking in the tub is the perfect place to unwind after a day skiing, one of the most obvious benefits of a hot tub is to ease tensions. The soothing effect of the warm water and massaging action helps relieve physical, emotional and mental stress. Water supports the body and takes weight off joints, and soaking in the tub is known to relax tense muscles, joints and tendons.

One study suggests immersion in a hot tub for 10 minutes may lower blood pressure and help metabolism. Research also suggests the relaxation gained from a soak in a hot tub can also promote deeper and more restful sleep.

Saunas have been traditionally used to produce a feeling of relaxation. As your heart rate goes up and your blood vessels dilate, there is an increase in blood flow to the skin. Saunas may also improve blood circulation. Studies show saunas provide decreased DOMs (delayed onset muscle soreness) and a better workout recovery. The act of lowering blood pressure and increasing heartrate gives your heart a workout as much as it might performing medium intensity exercise like hiking or cycling.

It is important to ensure you don’t get dehydrated using a sauna, the average person can lose a pint of sweat in just a short period of time in the sauna, so drinking lots of water is a must.

Swimming is a full body workout, it may seem like your legs and arms do most of the work, but that’s not the case. Swimming strengthens your core, raises your heart rate, and engages nearly all the muscles in your back. In general, exercise helps relieve anxiety and depression, and that includes swimming.

A gentle swim after other exercise is a great way to cool body temperature, and can be very refreshing. Simply tread water for 5-10 minutes and you will start to feel refreshed and renewed. Doing dynamic stretches in chest deep water, or varying kicking methods whilst treading water is a great way to loosen up the hips, knees and lower body muscles.

Massage is perhaps one of the oldest healing traditions. The act of manipulating muscles and other soft-tissue to improve wellbeing or health. Research indicates that massages are effective in managing: subacute/chronic low back pain; delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS); anxiety; stress; soft tissue injuries; high blood pressure and insomnia. Some of the physical benefits of massage include: reduced muscle tension; improved circulation; reduction of stress hormones; relaxation; increased joint mobility and flexibility; improved skin tone; improved recovery of soft tissue injuries; heightened mental alertness; reduced anxiety and depression.

We partner with Massage Me and Mountain Rehab for massage services in resort, both offer a choice of treatments including sports massage, deep tissue massage, and relaxing massage.

A number of our chalets have saunas, tubs or pools, but why not head to Bear Lodge in Les Arc this winter and enjoy the amazing spa facilities with pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, massage suites and exercise room. Positioned on the piste at 1950m the snow-capped alpine backdrop will make a refreshing change from your local gym.