How to prepare for a hydromassage in a whirlpool bath?

The terms “whirlpool bath” and “jacuzzi” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. So what’s the difference between a whirlpool bath and a jacuzzi? A whirlpool bath is smaller, lighter, and more affordable. A jacuzzi, on the other hand, is a more advanced device — heavier, requiring professional installation, larger in size, and designed for multiple users. It also has a closed water circulation system, which increases maintenance costs due to filtration and water treatment. For home use, a whirlpool bath is more than enough and fits into any bathroom where a standard bathtub would. Keep these differences in mind before making a purchase to choose the right models. Depending on the type of tub and the installed jets, you can choose between stream, bubble, or point massage, so it’s important to consider your specific needs.

An underwater massage offers numerous benefits for the body and mind, and it’s generally considered safe and pleasant. However, there are a few rules worth remembering to ensure the bath is both safe and satisfying. First, you should consider whether there are any contraindications to hydromassage. These include heart disease, varicose veins, and hypertension. People with diabetes should also avoid hydromassage. Special caution is advised for individuals with skin conditions and pregnant women — in such cases, consultation with a doctor is recommended.

To avoid discomfort and digestive issues, it’s advisable to avoid alcohol and heavy meals at least one hour before hydromassage. During the bath, remember that although hydromassage is relaxing, the session shouldn’t last too long. A single session should last between 15 and 30 minutes. If it’s your first time using a hydromassage bathtub, it’s safer to start with shorter sessions and observe how your body reacts.

Massage in a water soothes the body, but it’s a good idea to prepare your body first. In addition to avoiding food and alcohol, you should cleanse the skin. It’s recommended to take a quick shower, perform a body scrub, or use dry brushing. This not only removes dead skin cells but also improves blood circulation, making the water massage more effective.

Some specialists also recommend gently relaxing the muscles before the bath. A few stretching exercises are enough to make the water jets feel even more soothing. Don’t forget that the bath will involve warm water, so hydrating the body beforehand by drinking a glass of water is important.

Once you know how to prepare for hydromassage, it’s time to prepare the bathtub. The water level should reach above the jets so that the hydromassage of the spine and other body parts is effective. Water temperature is also important. Even those who love hot baths should be careful not to overheat the body, which could cause fainting or overheating. Safety must always come first.

The optimal water temperature is between 35 and 38°C. This temperature is close to the body’s natural temperature - it relaxes without overloading the circulatory system. Beginners, people with sensitive skin, or those with circulatory problems should start at a slightly cooler temperature, around 32°C. It’s crucial to avoid exceeding 40°C, even for experienced users of water massage.

Hydromassage is pure pleasure and relaxation, but you can easily enhance its effects by taking care of the right mood. Here are a few ideas to help you feel like you’re in a luxurious SPA resort during your bath:

• Mood lighting. Candles and soft, warm light soothe the senses, bring calm, and create the perfect conditions for rest.
• Essential oils. While not everyone appreciates the benefits of aromatherapy, the right essential oil can significantly improve your well-being. Just a few drops of natural oil - such as rose, lavender, or orange - are enough to calm the mind and relax the body. It’s important to use oils, not bath salts, as the latter can damage the jets.
• Relaxing music. A perfect complement to the pleasant scent and ambient lighting is classical or relaxing music featuring the sounds of nature.
• Additional accessories. Although not essential, consider accessories that make your hydromassage session even more enjoyable - for example, a special neck pillow.

Technically, a hydromassage session ends when you step out of the bathtub, but there are a few things you should remember afterward. They are just as important as the preparation and the massage itself. When leaving a warm bath, your body needs a moment to rest - it’s a good idea to sit down for a few minutes. Hydration is equally important.

Since hydromassage stimulates the skin and helps remove toxins, you can take advantage of this moment for skincare. Moisturizing lotions, serums, or nourishing oils will absorb particularly well after such a bath.

It’s no coincidence that most people enjoy hydromassage sessions after a long day or during relaxation time. Physical work or intense exercise right after bathing is not recommended, as the muscles are fully relaxed. Instead, it’s better to wrap yourself in a bathrobe, pick up a good book, and enjoy a cup of warm tea.

A bath in a hydromassage tub has a beneficial effect on the entire body. By following the above recommendations for preparation, as well as during and after the water massage, you can maximize the benefits while maintaining the most important safety principles.