Awareness of the value of self-care and stress release has grown dramatically over the past several years. As a result, more and more homeowners are installing saunas, hot tubs, swim spas, cold plunges and massage chairs inside and outside of their own homes. The health and wellness benefits are numerous. Here’s a look at which options may be right for you.
Saunas have long been cherished for their ability to relax the mind, relieve muscle tension, and promote overall well-being. But not all saunas are created equally.
• A traditional sauna uses a heat source, such as wood, electric heaters, or hot stones, to warm the air inside an enclosed space. Temperatures typically range between 150° to 195°F and humidity levels can be adjusted.
• An infrared sauna uses infrared light to heat the body directly rather than warming the air. These saunas operate at lower temperatures, typically between 120°F to 140°F, making the experience more tolerable for those sensitive to heat.
Choosing between an infrared and a traditional sauna depends on your personal health goals and preferences:
• Traditional saunas are excellent for relaxation and stress relief thanks to their hot and humid environment. They may provide greater cardiovascular conditioning as well.
• Infrared saunas offer deeper heat penetration, making them ideal for athletes or those with joint pain. They also excel in promoting detoxification and improving skin health.
• Hybrid saunas combine the technology of both traditional and infrared saunas in a single unit, allowing users to choose between high temperature steam and low-temperature infrared therapy.
“We’ve seen the sauna market and overall consumer awareness and interest grow exponentially over the past two to three years,” says Chris Strong, president of Watson’s. “The market has become more accessible to consumers than ever before, especially as they have learned the diverse benefits saunas can provide.”
Hot tubs offer more than relaxation. Soaking can improve circulation, ease sore muscles, reduce stress, support joint health, and promote better sleep. Regular use may also boost mental clarity and social connection, making it a simple way to enhance both physical and mental wellness. The warm water, massaging jets, and sense of calm help lower cortisol levels, which reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation. The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure on joints, while the heat eases stiffness and inflammation.
Cold plunges offer an invigorating approach to mental health. This centuries-old practice has gained popularity among athletes, celebrities, and health enthusiasts. The appeal lies in their simplicity and effectiveness. By immersing your body in cold water (50-59°F), you trigger physiological responses that can lead to an improved mental state, increased resilience to stress, a greater sense of calm, and decreased inflammation. Start with durations of two to three minutes and work your way up to fifteen. If you want the best of both worlds, there are dual temp models that offer a personalized hydrotherapy experience—unwind in the soothing warmth of the hot side or invigorate your senses with brisk cold water on the cold side.
Swim spas combine the features of hot tubs and endless pools. They use powerful pumps to create a strong, adjustable current of water. This allows users to swim in place, turning a small space into an endless pool. The pumps also power the hydrotherapy jets, which can be adjusted to provide a targeted massage. Warm water increases blood flow and relaxes muscles, while cooler water can help reduce inflammation. These spas accommodate a wide range of exercises, from water aerobics to resistance training. Regular use of a swim spa can significantly improve sleep quality and offers many cardiovascular benefits.
Massage chairs offer a relaxing escape and help with muscle recovery or chronic pain. When muscles are massaged, they relax, allowing blood to flow more freely, leading to increased energy levels and overall vitality. Regular use can contribute to better posture, reducing the risk of developing chronic back pain. Massage chairs stimulate lymphatic circulation, which is crucial for the body’s ability to fight off infection and toxins. And by calming the body and mind, they help prepare for deep, restful sleep.
“Sometimes the goal for using these products is about post-workout therapy, other times it’s about spending time relaxing,” says Strong. “It’s important to remember that wellness is a journey. Start at the level you need and elements can be added over time.”
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Article originally appeared in April 2026