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Healing through knowledge: Your wellness resource
Healing through knowledge: Your wellness resource
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Wade into articles on wellness, the benefits of a therapeutic soak, best practices for your visit, and more.
Top Spring Break Activities in Dallas | Things to Do in DFW
on Feb 26, 2025 | 5 minutes
Top 5 Dallas Spring Break Activities With pleasant weather, mild temperatures, and beautiful blooming flowers, spring is the perfect time to explore Dallas. Whether you’re a visitor or a local looking to explore your city, you’re in for a treat. There are plenty of things to do in Dallas during spring break, no matter how you like to spend your free time. Here are our recommendations for spring break activities for families, friends, and solo adventurers. Things to Do in Dallas for Spring Break 1. Stop and Smell the Roses (and More) at Dallas Blooms Dallas Blooms is a highly anticipated annual event for visitors and locals alike. With over 500,000 stunning blooms on display, it’s the largest floral festival in the Southwest. Every year features a unique theme with corresponding exhibits and displays, with vibrant blooms from hyacinths and tulips to azaleas and cherry trees. Attendees can look forward to live entertainment, activities for kids, delicious dining options, beer and wine tasting, and more. The event occurs at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden from late February to mid-April. 2. Explore the Art Scene The city of Dallas has a flourishing art scene. Whether you’re interested in ancient cultural artifacts or local contemporary art, the Arts District has something for everyone. Take your time wandering the halls of the Dallas Museum of Art, exploring over 5,000 years of human history from around the world. Don’t forget to explore the thought-provoking special exhibitions on display during your spring-break visit, including “Marisol: A Retrospective” and “Return to Infinity: Yayoi Kusama.” The Arts District Heist is a fun way to experience local art, architecture, and history with the whole family while exploring downtown Dallas. Everyone can challenge themselves with witty puzzles and brain teasers while tracking down a notorious thief through Klyde Warren Park, the Dallas Museum of Art, Flora Street, and more! If you miss the heist during spring break, no problem. The heist is year-round so that you can test your sleuthing skills anytime. 3. Catch the Dallas International Film Festival The annual, week-long Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF), the largest film festival in Texas, showcases a diverse range of stories from around the world. Attend exclusive screenings and filmmaker panels and enjoy short films, documentaries, and unique stories from late April to early May. The spirit of DIFF is bringing filmmakers and audiences together to connect through the art of film and enjoy the experience as a community. 4. Indulge Your Taste Buds at the Dallas Farmers Market Support local farmers, ranchers, food artisans, and arts and crafts vendors year-round at the Dallas Farmers Market. At this open-air pavilion, you can shop for fresh seasonal produce, international and regional foods, Texas wines, naturally raised meats and dairy products, and much more. There are plenty of dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well, from fresh sushi to tasty tamales. 5. Get Wild at the Dallas Zoo Looking for fun and educational spring break activities for families? Bring the whole family to get in touch with their wild side at the Dallas Zoo. Meet more than 400 different species from around the world, from tropical birds and reptiles to apes and big cats. Your family will make lasting memories with hands-on animal experiences like giraffe feeding, keeper chats, the interactive aviary, and the wild encounters stage. Kick Off Your Spring Break Activities with a WorldSprings Getaway Start your spring break on a relaxing note with a hot springs getaway or staycation. Let a trip to WorldSprings top your list of things to do in Dallas during spring break. We have over 40 globally inspired mineral hot springs. Our pools vary in temperature and mineral balance to meet different physical and mental wellness needs. The destination also includes saunas, cold plunges, cabanas, large pools, and spa services to enhance your experience. WorldSprings offers communal settings throughout our facilities, providing opportunities to connect and interact with others. A tranquil environment is ideal to deepen bonds with your travel companions and make new friends. Improving your social wellness with positive interactions will leave you feeling more fulfilled and relaxed. Plus, the whole family can enjoy the destination. Our South Pacific Region, featuring crystal clear thermal pools and a freshwater globe pool, welcomes all ages. Traveling can be exhausting, but when you give yourself a chance to unwind and recharge at WorldSprings, you’ll feel rejuvenated and ready to start your spring break in Dallas. Book your visit today and begin your wellness journey.
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What Is the Glo2Facial? | Glo2Facial Benefits
on Jan 20, 2025 | 4 minutes
What Is the Glo2Facial? Soaking in a hot spring pool at WorldSprings is the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. But did you know that you can enhance your self-care experience and leave with a glowing, healthy complexion? The WorldSprings Spa offers a variety of treatments and experiences to enhance your visit, including the popular Glo2Facial™. Developed by Geneo, this advanced, non-invasive treatment is getting attention for its ability to improve skin’s overall health by triggering its natural oxygenation process. This treatment nourishes and hydrates from the inside out, leaving you with a gorgeous complexion that looks and feels fresh and youthful. What Is a Glo2Facial? The Glo2Facial is similar to the HydraFacial™, another popular service that works deep within the skin. Aestheticians praise the Glo2Facial for its ability to create both immediate and long-lasting results. The treatment works on the skin's inner and outer layers, triggering cell turnover and natural rejuvenation processes. Perfect for all skin types—including mature and sensitive, oily, and dry—the treatment includes three steps: oxygenation, exfoliation, and infusion. These steps work in combination and build upon each other to produce visible results. The facial starts with a consultation where you can share your specific skin concerns and choose from six customization options. The aesthetician will assess your skin and create a personalized treatment plan to address your unique needs. Exfoliation The next step is Oxfoliation™ (oxygenation and exfoliation), which involves applying the specially designed treatment capsule to your skin. The active ingredients are combined with a gel to create a chemical reaction. As bubbles form on your skin, they create a carbon dioxide-rich environment that stimulates your body’s natural oxygenation response. As oxygen-rich blood flows to your face, it helps revitalize your skin and prepare it for the rest of the treatment. Your aesthetician will then use the exclusive Geneo OxyPod to exfoliate your skin, removing dead skin cells and unclogging the pores. This process differs from other treatments (including the HydraFacial) because it’s gentle and non-abrasive, making it perfect for all skin types. Not only does it help your skin feel softer and smoother, but the exfoliation also prepares it to absorb nutrients during the infusion step. The OxyPod uses ultrasound technology to temporarily disrupt the lipid layer, creating small gaps in the skin structure. Ultrasound emits tiny oscillating heat waves, which make the skin more receptive to the active ingredients in the facial. Treatment For the infusion step, the aesthetician applies a serum specifically selected to address your skin concerns. The skin-loving ingredients, which include hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants, help address concerns like dry skin, signs of aging, and uneven or dull skin. These natural ingredients, which include green tea, willow bark, and marula and rosehip oils, help nourish and treat your skin naturally, without irritation. The oxygenation and exfoliation ensure that they penetrate deep into the inner layers of the skin, so your skin looks incredible long after you leave the spa. Massage Finally, the esthetician performs a hands-free facial massage to increase circulation and promote lymphatic drainage. The massage helps your face look slimmer and more toned, and it also supports the continued flow of oxygenated blood, which helps your skin look and feel healthier. The Glo2Facial is a quick, painless treatment lasting 50 minutes. It’s gentle and non-invasive, leaving no redness or irritation, so you can immediately resume your day with glowing, refreshed skin. Why Get a Glo2 Facial? If you are a devotee of HydraFacial or just trying to decide between the two treatments, there are pros and cons to both. The HydraFacial offers deep cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration, making it ideal for individuals with skin concerns like acne or excess oil production. The Glo2 Facial is a relaxing and soothing experience since it relies on a natural, physiological response rather than manual extraction. In fact, most people report little to no discomfort during the treatment. Additional benefits include: Better circulation and oxygenation give you a radiant and healthy-looking complexion thanks to more cell turnover below the surface. Hydrated, plump, and youthful-looking skin thanks to increased moisture levels. Customized treatments to address your unique skin needs. Long-lasting results and show cumulative benefits after multiple sessions. Both the Glo2Facial and HydraFacial can help you address your skin concerns and achieve healthy-looking skin. The Glo2Facial is your best bet for hydrating your skin and increasing its radiance and glow.. Schedule a visit to the WorldSprings Dallas Spa to experience the Glo2Facial for yourself.
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How to Keep Winter Blues Away at a Hot Springs Pool & Spa
on Jan 15, 2025 | 5 minutes
How to Keep Winter Blues Away at a Hot Springs Pool & Spa With the weather getting colder and the sun setting earlier each day, you might find yourself slipping into a melancholic mood more often. It’s common to feel sluggish, unmotivated, sad, or anxious during winter, but there are things you can do to boost your mental health. Devoting some time to self-care at a hot springs pool and spa can help you beat the winter blues and enjoy the season. What Are the Winter Blues? Everyone has days when they don’t feel like themselves and they lack the energy to do anything more than snuggle under a blanket and binge the latest Netflix series. When you feel like that more often between late fall and the return of spring, you may be dealing with a disorder known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Doctors define SAD as a type of depression that’s tied to specific seasons. It’s far more common to experience it during the winter, leading many experts to believe it’s triggered by reduced exposure to sunlight. Whatever the cause, people with winter depression often deal with physical and psychological symptoms that affect almost every aspect of their lives. Some of the most common symptoms include: A sad or down mood most days Low energy Lack of interest in their usual activities Sleeping more than normal Weight gain Cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods Lack of focus Feelings of worthlessness, despair, guilt, or hopelessness Although the symptoms of the winter blues can be extreme, most people feel better in the spring. However, doctors may recommend remedies that include psychotherapy, light therapy, and medication to help manage the symptoms. Self-care is another effective way to keep seasonal depression under control. How Visiting a Hot Springs Pool & Spa Can Help You Manage Seasonal Depression Implementing self-care strategies before your SAD symptoms disrupt your life can help you stay on track all winter. Some techniques that help include getting outdoors, exercising, spending time with loved ones, planning fun activities to look forward to, and taking care of yourself with relaxing mind-body techniques. Visiting a hot springs spa and pool can check all these boxes. These facilities offer more than just soaking tubs—you’ll find a variety of wellness options, including spa services, yoga, and saunas. What’s better than a place where you can take a restorative yoga class followed by a relaxing hot spring soak and a massage? Scheduling a visit is more than just a fun activity to look forward to, though. Spending time in the hot springs offers many valuable wellness benefits. Enjoy the Calming Effects of Hot Springs Soaks Soaking in a hot springs pool is a great way to relax. The hot water alone can help soothe your tense muscles, while the minerals offer a variety of benefits, from supporting healthy skin to improving circulation and reducing pain. Research shows that soaking in warm water helps increase endorphins, the so-called “happy hormones,” which can boost your mood and help you feel calmer and more focused. Spending time in a community hot springs pool with friends or even strangers can also help your mood by giving you a chance to build social connections. A stimulating discussion or a heart-to-heart with another person can often help you feel more optimistic. Improve Relaxation With Sauna Baths It’s a good idea to search for winter hot springs near me that offer additional amenities, like saunas. Spending some time sweating in a sauna can help you relax and increase endorphins, which can thwart depression and anxiety. The high heat can also boost your immune system and help keep your airways moist and clear, making you less likely to get sick. Boost Mental Wellness With Yoga Taking a yoga class with your hot springs soak is an excellent way to strengthen your mind and body. Whether you choose an active and invigorating class to give you an energy boost or a gentler flow that helps you relax, yoga can help improve your mood, support better sleep, and reduce your stress, all of which can help you beat the winter blues. Combat Winter Blues With LED Light Therapy Red light therapy can help ease the symptoms of the winter blues. Although typically used for treating skin conditions and related medical issues, LED light therapy can help increase blood flow and circulation, which helps reduce inflammation and pain. The treatments also help create a greater sense of wellness, which can improve energy levels and neural stimulation. Rejuvenate Your Body & Mind With Massage Therapy Few things are as relaxing as a massage; combining one with a hot springs soak can be the ultimate restorative self-care getaway. Not only do massages alleviate muscle tension and tightness—physical symptoms associated with anxiety—but different types also offer additional wellness benefits. A lymphatic detox massage, for example, helps enhance your overall well-being by reducing toxins and water retention. This can help you feel more energetic and boost your immune system. Visit WorldSprings, a Wellness Destination Globally inspired relaxation doesn’t have to involve passports and last-minute airfare. Visit WorldSprings to enjoy mineral hot springs pools where you can soak your troubles away, as well as stimulating cold plunge pools, soothing saunas, and a range of spa services. Make a reservation today.
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What is a Lymphatic Massage? | Lymphatic Drainage Massage
on Jul 6, 2025 | 3 minutes
What Is a Lymphatic Massage? Massage is a therapeutic practice that dates to 3,000 B.C.E. There are numerous reasons people choose massage therapy, from relieving muscle tension and aiding post-workout recovery to easing stress and curbing anxiety. If you’re dealing with inflammation, lymphatic drainage massage is one modality worth exploring. If this technique is new to you, you might have questions about its benefits and what you should know before booking a session at the WorldSprings Spa. This guide outlines how lymphatic drainage massage works, how you can prepare for a session, and how to take care of yourself afterwards to see the best results. How Does Lymphatic Massage Work? Lymphatic System 101 Knowing more about the lymphatic system is essential to understanding lymphatic massage. The lymphatic system is part of the immune system and includes lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, thymus, spleen, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue. Think of these vessels, organs, and tissues as open corridors through which the watery substance lymph flows. Lymph acts as a delivery system, transporting protein and nutrients to cells and tissue. The lymphatic system filters waste and abnormal cells out of the lymph fluid before they flow back into the bloodstream. Purpose of Lymphatic Drainage Massage The lymphatic system works like a fine-tuned machine, but it can still experience performance issues. Infection, genetic defects, scar tissue, tumors, cancer, and related treatments are issues that could disrupt lymph flow. Instead of reaching the intended destination, the fluid settles in the extremities, neck, genitals, or abdomen. The pooling fluid causes swelling in the affected areas. Lymphatic drainage massage redirects the fluid back to its intended course. Massage practitioners use gentle pressure to massage non-swollen areas, creating open channels for lymph to drain through. Lymphatic Drainage Massage Benefits Alleviates Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint inflammation. The associated swelling and pain can affect quality of life. Lymphatic drainage massage helps lymph drain away from joints to ease swelling and discomfort. Aids in Post-Surgery Care An operation can remove lymph nodes or damage them as a side effect of treatment. Lymph collects in other areas as a result. Lymphatic drainage massage decongests these areas to minimize post-procedure swelling. Promotes Calmness Lymphatic drainage massage can help you de-stress when paired with mindfulness techniques and a healthy sleep routine. Beyond moving lymph, the massage also gets blood flowing. Improved circulation can combat stress, and the gentle pressure of the massage can ease tense muscles to encourage relaxation. Boosts Immune System Function Eating a nutrient-rich diet and practicing good hygiene are two effective ways to fight off common infections. Add lymphatic drainage massage to the list. It is an excellent preemptive measure to avoid feeling under the weather. The massage stimulates toxin removal and lymph flow. The fluid carries immune cells to different areas to ward off infection. How to Prepare for a Session Remain Hydrated Drinking plenty of water in the day leading up to the session will encourage lymph flow and urination to help rid your body of toxins. Remember to head to the restroom to empty your bladder before the session begins. Skip Your Skincare Routine We all have our daily rituals, but you should make a few adjustments before a lymphatic drainage massage. To start, skip putting on your go-to lotions. The products cause skin to become slippery, so your massage therapist won’t be able to manipulate the skin effectively. This could limit the impact of the massage. Avoid Heavy Meals While it’s important to be well-hydrated during a lymphatic drainage massage, you don’t want to be full from a large meal. Eating something heavy beforehand can leave you feeling bloated and uncomfortable during the treatment, which can limit its effectiveness. Aftercare Tips Continue drinking water after your lymphatic drainage massage to help keep fluids circulating properly. Avoid beverages that make you dehydrated quickly, like coffee and alcohol. Short, gentle exercise sessions, like a 15-minute yoga flow or walk around the block, can also facilitate the movement of lymph after a massage. Resting after a treatment is also essential for helping the body adjust and recover. Lymphatic Drainage Massage & More at WorldSprings Visit WorldSprings to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of massage and soaking in mineral hot springs in one location. The Spa offers lymphatic massage for detoxification and reduction of water retention while boosting energy levels. Additional spa services include LED light therapy and facials. After pampering in The Spa, experience the mineral hot springs and enjoy the tranquil waters containing bicarbonate, magnesium, chloride, potassium, and other minerals that boost your sense of well-being. Plan your visit today, and prepare to feel like your best self.
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Sounds Baths Overview: What is a Sound Bath?
on Jan 1, 2025 | 3 minutes
A Guide to Sound Baths Slipping into a warm bath is a relaxing and restorative experience. You can let your stress and worries float away and feel the tension escape from your muscles. Embrace this calming ritual to relax both your body and mind. What Is a Sound Bath? For thousands of years, cultures worldwide have engaged in sound bathing as part of their meditative practices. The experience involves allowing sound waves from various instruments to wash over you, creating soothing vibrations to help listeners relax and feel less stressed or anxious. Sound baths include the use of traditional instruments to create the waves, including chimes, singing bowls, rattles, drums, and even voices. However, the experience isn’t music, per se, as it has no defined melody or rhythm. Instead, the practitioner creates a wash of sounds meant to encourage you to let go and release your tension without the need for your brain to connect with a specific pattern. Traditionally, sound baths create specific tones and frequencies that align with the energy centers of your body, also known as the qi (chi) or chakras. When these points become imbalanced, you can have issues throughout your body; for example, digestive issues may stem from an imbalance in that particular energy center. A sound bath with frequencies tuned to that area is believed to help restore balance and support healing by effectively resetting that center and getting energy moving correctly. Many people experience sound baths as part of another healing practice, like a yoga class. It’s common for practitioners to end their sessions with a short sound bath. However, a sound bath can also be a complete experience on its own, with participants lying in a reclined position while the soothing sounds wash over them. As you focus on your breathing and the effects of the sound, you can reach a deeper state of relaxation and contemplation and calm your anxiety. At the end of the session, the practitioner will lead you back to awareness. The Benefits of Sound Baths Sound baths are a respite from the demands of everyday life and stress, but devotees report that the effects last much longer than the one-hour “chill out” session. Although much of the evidence regarding the effects of sound baths is anecdotal, with limited scientific proof, participants often report feeling calmer and less stressed after a session. Other reported benefits of sound bathing include: Improved sleep Looser, less tense muscles Reduced pain Improved mood, including feeling happier and less stressed, angry, or anxious Feeling more connected to your body Lower blood pressure and heart rate It’s important to remember that sound baths are not a replacement for a physician’s care or any treatments you’re currently receiving. They are a supplementary or complementary option that can help you feel your best. Getting the Most From a Sound Bath At its foundation, sound bathing is a meditative practice, and to have the best, most beneficial session, you need to approach it with an open mind and spirit. Prepare yourself for an experience that may sometimes be emotional or even uncomfortable, in addition to relaxing and even euphoric. The sound vibrations may create different sensations throughout your body, or you might reach such a deep state of relaxation that you fall asleep or “zone out” completely. Any of these responses is acceptable. Your sound bath experience is yours alone, and you won’t have the same feelings and outcomes as anyone else. Other tips for getting the most from your sound bath include: Creating a sacred transition: Give yourself plenty of time to get to your session and settle in. Get yourself into the right headspace as you travel to the session by switching off your devices, listening to soothing music, and detaching yourself from your to-do list. Set an intention: Ask yourself what you need before the session to have a point of focus. It doesn’t have to be lofty or complicated, just an honest statement that captures your priority for health and healing. Hydrate: Drinking plenty of water or herbal tea throughout the day helps your body cleanse and repair itself during the session. A light snack can help you avoid distracting hunger, but stick with healthy, nourishing foods. A heavy meal right before the session can make you uncomfortable or sleepy. Sound baths are safe for almost everyone; only those with contraindications like a recent concussion or certain psychological disorders that can be exacerbated by meditation should avoid them. Are you looking for a sound bath near me? Check out WorldSprings’ event calendar for scheduled sound bath and floating sound bath experiences included complimentary in your soak visit
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The Top Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing
on Jan 3, 2025 | 3 minutes
The Top Health Benefits of Sauna Bathing Many people incorporate a hot shower into their daily or evening routine. The cascading water and steam can unwind your mind and relax your body. The next time you are at a wellness destination or gym, don't wait to bathe until you get home—take advantage of the onsite sauna benefits. Sauna bathing is one of WorldSprings’ amenities, and it’s a ritual worth exploring. Here’s what you should know about this wellness experience. How Do Saunas Work? Except for built-in benches, a sauna is an almost empty room typically made of wood. The interior is kept at a sizzling 170 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter. Although hot showers and saunas both produce steam, saunas are typically much drier. The Finnish saunas at WorldSprings disperse dry heat. Hot stones, electric heaters, infrared lights, and wood-burning stoves are common sources of dry heat in saunas. Water poured over hot stones creates a steamy environment, but otherwise, the humidity is kept low, specifically between 10% and 20%. The lack of moisture in a Finnish sauna can make the heat feel even more intense. These temperatures are considered extreme for the body, so people with certain medical conditions, such as heart issues or diabetes, should consult a doctor first. They might be advised to limit their time in the heat and follow a cooling-down process afterward. Individuals who have difficulty regulating body temperature might also be advised to limit or avoid sauna bathing. Sitting in a sauna will make you sweat, which can cause dehydration. To remain hydrated, drink at least one glass of water beforehand and avoid consuming alcohol, which contributes to dehydration and could make you feel overheated. Don't eat a large meal before bathing in the sauna to avoid feeling nauseated. What Health Benefits Do Saunas Offer? Improves Cardiovascular Health Sauna bathing will make your heart happier in various ways. The heat causes the body to sweat profusely. Your body tries to regulate its temperature for relief from the heat. In doing so, the heart beats faster. The quickened pace dilates blood vessels, which helps increase circulation and lower blood pressure. Research shows that downtime in a sauna can lower the levels of LDL ("bad cholesterol") while giving HDL ("good cholesterol") levels a boost. High HDL levels do a better job of filtering out the bad cholesterol, lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues. Cardiovascular respiratory fitness levels are another factor that influences whether an individual may develop heart disease. Sauna bathing can help raise these levels, which is why you shouldn’t forgo post-workout heat therapy. Reduces Stress Sauna bathing helps keep stress hormones in check to help you feel more at ease. For instance, having less of the stress hormone cortisol in the bloodstream aids immune system function. Feeling less stressed reduces inflammation and helps maintain white blood cell count to minimize the risk of infections. Alleviates Common Respiratory Issues Sauna bathing can provide relief to individuals who have chronic lung issues. Just like heat causes blood vessels to dilate, the intense temperatures can also open tight airways to make it easier for individuals with asthma and other respiratory issues to breathe. Regular sauna-bathing sessions may even keep the common cold at bay. As mentioned, sauna bathing strengthens your immune system. Sweating helps flush toxins out of the body. Sitting in a sauna also helps break up mucus to prevent congestion that affects your lungs and nasal passages. Reduces Joint Pain Sauna bathing can help alleviate the joint pain associated with arthritis. Inflammation triggers this discomfort, as the immune system sees the tissue around the joints as a foreign invader. In response, the immune system prompts the painful swelling. A respite in a sauna can provide an immune boost and lower the risk of inflammation. Sauna bathing is a great element to add to your workout routine (or after you've mowed the lawn or participated in other strenuous chores around the house) to ease muscle tension. The heat opens blood vessels to deliver oxygenated blood straight to stressed muscles. The blood helps the tears heal faster. Experience Sauna Bathing at WorldSprings When you search online for "a sauna near me" or "spa with sauna near me," you are only a few clicks away from experiencing all that WorldSprings offers. Indulge in Finnish sauna bathing in one of the birch-lined barrels or rectangular-style enclosures. The wellness destination also boasts mineral hot springs for a relaxing soak and cold plunge pools for an invigorating, icy pick-me-up. Book your visit to WorldSprings to start your wellness journey.
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How Soaking in a Hot Springs Pool Boosts Body Immunity
on Jan 6, 2025 | 5 minutes
How Soaking in a Hot Springs Pool Boosts Body Immunity Soaking in mineral hot springs is a soothing, restorative experience. But while relaxation is a major reason why springs enthusiasts keep returning for routine soaks, there are some less obvious benefits that make mineral springs ideal for whole-body wellness. Here, we explore how mineral pools can boost your body’s immunity through several key mechanisms. The importance of immunity for your health What is body immunity? The immune system is the body’s defense against pathogens, bacteria, viruses, toxins, and other potentially harmful invaders. This complex network is made up of many different components, including your organs, tissues, cells, and microbes, all of which work together to target and neutralize threats. You also have several subsets of body immunity, including: Physical barriers, such as your skin and mucosa lining The rapid-acting innate immune system The adaptive immune system, which targets specific pathogens precisely and retains memory of past infections for the future The innate immune system is your body’s way of attacking invaders indiscriminately. It’s made up of natural killer cells that act as a first line of defense. This system also triggers inflammation, an important response to injuries and infections. On the other hand, the adaptive immune system is more specialized and involves white blood cells called lymphocytes. There are several types of lymphocytes, including T-cells—which target infected cells and regulate immune response—and B-cells, which create antibodies to fight specific pathogens. Why is it important to maintain strong body immunity? Coordination between well-functioning innate and adaptive immunity ensures a robust defense against viruses, bacteria, and other illness-causing agents. At the same time, a properly functioning immune system prevents your body from going after healthy tissue through mechanisms like immune tolerance. This dynamic, multifaceted system not only protects you against illness, but also maintains your overall health. How winter affects the body’s immune system If it seems like you get sick more often or severely during the winter months, it’s not your imagination. There are multiple factors that affect immunity this time of year, including cooler weather itself. When temperatures drop, blood vessels in your skin constrict to conserve heat. This, in turn, reduces blood flow and immune cell circulation to critical areas, like your respiratory tract. Colder weather also comes with reduced humidity, which can leave your mucus membranes drier and impact their ability to trap pathogens. It then becomes easier for infections to take hold, leading to the common cold and flu. Additionally, most people tend to spend more time indoors when winter arrives. This can significantly increase your exposure to airborne viruses and bacteria, particularly in crowded areas with poor ventilation. Seasonal variations in sunlight exposure can also play a role in reduced wintertime immunity. Lower levels of sunlight may lead to a drop in the production of vitamin D, a key nutrient for immune function. This combination of environmental conditions creates the perfect storm for increased viral activity. Add seasonal stressors to the mix, and your body may become even less efficient at maintaining optimal immunity. How soaking in a hot springs pool boosts body immunity While it may not be the first reason you’re searching for “hot springs near me,” visiting WorldSprings could give your immune system an added boost. Nutrient-Rich Water Our mineral pools are loaded with immune-boosting nutrients, including: Magnesium Calcium Potassium Bicarbonate While you can certainly get some of these minerals through diet, soaking in our hot springs allows you to deliver them to your immune system through skin absorption. Soothing Heat Our mineral pools also deliver a distinct warming effect to your entire body. Heat can help strengthen your body’s immune response in a number of ways. Heat improves circulation by causing the walls of your blood vessels to relax, creating an effect known as vasodilation. When this happens, blood flow increases, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to key areas, while also supporting the removal of waste products. Increased heat also has therapeutic effects that could boost your immunity indirectly. For example, soaking in mineral hot springs reduces stiffness and discomfort in sore muscles by enhancing the delivery of oxygen-rich blood and eliminating inflammatory substances. Heat from mineral pools can promote overall body relaxation, encourage better sleep, and reduce stress, all of which support your immune system. Globally Inspired Mineral Baths & Holistic Wellness Amenities WorldSprings is home to mineral baths inspired by locations around the world, allowing guests to enjoy mind and body benefits in a serene setting. While our mineral pools are certainly a great place to start for immune support, our facilities have much more to offer. Our saunas can deliver therapeutic effects, by stimulating your body’s production of heat shock proteins, which aid in cellular repair and enhance cells’ resistance to stress. Saunas also promote vasodilation, which improves circulation and reduces inflammation. Visit WorldSprings for a true relaxation experience. Whether you prefer soaking in hot springs or the soothing heat of a sauna, you'll enjoy immune-boosting benefits and a comfortable, luxurious experience.
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HSA/FSA Eligibility at WorldSprings
on Dec 16, 2024 | 5
Book at WorldSprings with HSA/FSA Funds At WorldSprings, we believe that soaking in mineral hot springs and using saunas may help you sleep better, de-stress, and contribute to your overall health. Through our collaboration with Truemed, eligible customers can now use Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds on soak reservations, memberships, massages, and performance therapies. This means you may be eligible to soak with pre-tax dollars, resulting in average net savings of 30%. Getting reimbursed for WorldSprings purchases from your HSA/FSA is easy, follow these steps! Take a 2-minute evaluation survey from Truemed that will be reviewed by a licensed practitioner. It's just $15. If eligible, Truemed's licensed practitioners will issue you a Letter of Medical Necessity (similar to a doctor writing a prescription). The letter will cover 12 months of reimbursements at WorldSprings! (soak admission, memberships, massages, and performance therapies) Truemed will send you instructions to obtain reimbursement from your HSA/FSA administrators. Make your purchase at WorldSprings with your debit or credit card, and save your receipt for reimbursement from your HSA/FSA Find out if you qualify by filling out the evaluation survey If you have difficulty submitting a claim for reimbursement, reach out to [email protected] and Truemed will provide the information that your HSA/FSA administrator is requesting
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How Soaking in a Hot Spring Pool Can Help Prevent Cold & Flu
on Oct 2, 2024 | 5 minutes
How Soaking in a Hot Spring Pool Can Help Prevent Colds and Flu Fall might bring cooler days, brightly colored leaves, and ubiquitous pumpkin spice, but it also means the arrival of cold and flu season. As we start spending more time indoors, germs have more opportunities to spread, and it won’t be long before it seems like everyone is coughing, sniffling, and sneezing. We’ve all learned some cold and flu prevention tips over the last few years, from masking up in public to washing our hands more often. But even when you take precautions, there’s a chance you’ll get sick. When you do, visiting a hot springs facility like WorldSprings can help alleviate your symptoms and help you feel better faster. Navigating the Cold and Flu Season COVID-19 might have been the star of the show for the last few years, but that doesn’t mean the viruses that cause colds and the flu have disappeared. In fact, there are more than 200 different respiratory viruses that can cause cold symptoms, as well as dozens of influenza viruses. The viruses that cause the common cold are highly contagious. They can spread through the air, close personal contact with an infected person, or by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching a surface with the virus on it. Millions of people get colds every year. Symptoms range from mild nasal congestion and a runny nose to coughing, sneezing, a headache, sore throat, and body aches. In most cases, a cold doesn’t cause a fever; a fever is typically a sign that you have the flu or a more severe illness. Most people would rather avoid getting a cold since the virus can make them miserable, and symptoms last up to two weeks. Regular handwashing, not touching your face, and wearing a mask can help stop the spread of the nasty germs, but you can do even more to boost your immune system and get through the winter without a cold, leaving you down for the count. How a Hot Springs Pool Can Help Reduce Cold & Flu Symptoms Relaxing in a hot spring pool can do wonders for your mood and overall well-being. Soaking in warm water can help you sleep better since warm water can trigger a relaxation response. While you soak, your body temperature increases; when you leave the pool, your body temperature drops, which signals your body that it’s time to sleep. When you don’t feel well, a relaxing soak in warm water can help ease your aches and pains and provide a few additional benefits that can prevent and soothe your symptoms. Immune System Boost Slipping into a hot springs pool for a relaxing soak can give your immune system a much-needed boost to fight off infectious germs. But do hot soaks boost the immune system? They do! For starters, hot water can create a “false fever” by elevating your body temperature, which can stop cold viruses from reproducing and making you sick. If you already have a cold, warming your body can help shorten its duration. Soaking in hot water can also increase circulation, which also helps strengthen your immune system and make you feel better. Increasing your body temperature causes blood vessels to dilate, which supports better blood flow and delivers more oxygen to your organs. This can help increase production of the white blood cells that can fight off an infection. Just the simple act of relaxing in the pool can also help support your immune system. When you’re stressed, your immune system doesn’t respond as well to the stress hormone cortisol. Not only does this make you more susceptible to colds, but it can also worsen your symptoms. Adding frequent hot springs soaks to your self-care routine can help you stay healthy even when surrounded by germs. Finally, soaking in mineral springs can deliver a powerful boost of beneficial minerals that help support a healthy immune system. Your skin can absorb the minerals in the water, including immune-boosting magnesium, sulfur, potassium, iron, and zinc, which can help you fight off colds and the flu. Respiratory Benefits Research shows that dry air contributes to the spread of cold and flu germs, in some part because it dries out your nasal passages and makes them more vulnerable to viruses. Spending time in a hot springs pool with steam can add much-needed moisture, which can help you avoid getting sick and relieve congestion if you feel like you’re coming down with something. Extra moisture in the air opens your nasal passages so you can breathe easier and loosens mucus to clear out the congestion more easily. Hydration It might seem counterintuitive, but spending time in hot springs can contribute to dehydration, making you feel worse when you’re sick and leaving you more vulnerable to illness. Staying hydrated during cold and flu season is essential to prevent infection and help alleviate your symptoms. Visit WorldSprings As Part of Your Winter Wellness Plan With cold and flu season right around the corner, it’s time to start taking precautions to avoid getting sick this winter. Schedule a visit to WorldSprings to relax and give yourself the gift of a stronger immune system.
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