Hot springs are a natural phenomenon found all over the world. Although there is no strict definition of what a hot spring really is, the basic idea is that it is a naturally occurring pool of water that is geothermally heated. People have been using hot springs as a way to treat a variety of ailments for centuries, and they were the only option under the advent of the modern hot tub.  

Hot Spring To Hot Tub: A Brief History

The modern hot tub was invented by one of the Jacuzzi brothers in the late 60s, which made the relaxing sensation of a hot spring more accessible. People no longer needed to travel to a hot spring now, because the wealthy could install one at home, and others could visit their local gym or pool house. Nowadays, even the best inflatable hot tub is actually quite affordable, and wouldn’t break the bank. Of course there are variations between the different experiences, but there are also many similarities. 

Mineral Content Of Hot Springs

There are several different types of hot springs, but the water in a hot spring is generally rich in minerals. For example, in some countries these hot springs are turned into sulphur baths. The water in these hot springs had a distinct sulphurous odor that some people may find offensive or overpowering. 

Another thing that you may notice about hot springs is that many are naturally carbonated. This means that the water is somewhat fizzy (like a soft drink) from bicarbonate deposits. The fizzy water provides a relaxing sensation that many people look for in hot springs. 

Modern hot tubs mimic these features by having water and air jets installed. The water in a hot tub is very bubbly, because the jets cause a whirlpool effect in the tub. 

Are The Benefits Of Hot Springs And Hot Tubs The Same

Many of the benefits of the higher temperature of a hot spring are also found in hot tubs. This includes stress relief, reducing joint pain, alleviating joint pain, improving sleep deprivation and many others. The only things that hot tubbing can compare to is the mineral content of some hot springs. Studies have shown that bathing or soaking in a hot spring with certain combinations of minerals is beneficial to health in a number of ways. There is no way to replicate the exact type of water that is in a hot spring, and it is difficult to come close to the same experience. Most people who have tried both will prefer the hot spring but will probably admit that hot tubs are far  more convenient because you do not have to travel to reach one. Also, hot tubs are considered more sanitary because hot springs cannot be cleaned nor can anyone expect that the hot spring water will always comply with standards set by a government body, which are regulations set to keep you safe. 

At the end of the day, hot tubs are a viable alternative to natural springs. They provide the same benefits while also being much safer.