Soak it up

Call it a spa pool, a hot tub, a Jacuzzi or even a think tank, a small bubbling hot pool can provide hours of relaxation all year round.

As they have become more popular, spa pools have found their way into more and more Kiwi homes in all shapes, sizes and materials. Sizes range from two-to four person models, up to party-size, while styles start with classic free-standing cedar options heated by stainless steel fireboxes (common off-grid) to customised in-ground versions with music, lighting and adjustable water jets.

They’re not for everyone, however, especially those with various medical conditions.

Some of the pros and cons:

Pro: soak away your stress.
Con: increased risk of heat stress.
Pro: reduced pain and inflammation.
Con: potential problems for the circulatory system.
Pro: better recovery from sport-related injuries and muscle problems.
Con: potential infection risks.