Relax in a surge pool or tub

Press, 26 November 1980, Page 21

Relax in a surge pool or tub

Gentle water massage in a home spa or hot tub is an idea that is rapidly gaining appeal in New Zealand. Less expensive to install than an in-ground swimming pool, the spa or tub is also easier to maintain. The hot bubbling water that massages tense and tired muscles has a therapeutic merit recognised for centuries. Enthusiasts

emphasize that the effect stimulates the flow of blood around the body so impurities are more quickly removed and problem areas more generously supplied with oxygen. This has been found to sooth aches and pains and speed up the healing of damaged tissues. The opportunity hydrotherapy offers for passive exercise is a particular boon for the physically handicapped, as it can be used to achieve more rapid improvement in muscle tone and co-ordina-tion.

More generally, a soak in a spa pool can work wonders for people otherwise under constant stress, especially if taken along with warm, non-al-coholic drinks and followed by at least half an hour’s rest. The cost need not offer additional anxiety, either, as surge pools, whirlpool baths or spas — call them what you will — range from a modification of a standard bath to the more elaborate garden spa with its own gazebo. However, if you fancy making yours a social at-

traction, there is a variety of large, fully decked and landscaped outdoor spas available. With the advent of the modern spa pool at an accessible cost, New Zealanders can enjoy many of the benefits of the famous Bavarian resorts without stirring beyond their own homes and gardens.