From stressed to refreshed: how spas can help lower your stress levels

When we find ourselves in difficult or scary situations, our body produces stress hormones such as adrenaline or cortisol. This triggers a fight or flight response, helping us to respond quickly to danger and keep ourselves safe. However, too much stress over a prolonged period can have lasting effects on our physical and mental health. It can suppress immune and digestive systems, increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke, affect sleep and lead to mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.

While stressful situations are often outside of our control, there are positive steps you can take to lower your stress levels. For example, booking a spa visit – either a Spa Day or Overnight Spa Break – can leave you relaxed, refreshed and ready to deal with whatever life throws at you. Here’s why…

You can have a digital detox

We're constantly glued to our screens these days, but mindless scrolling, constant notifications and comparing ourselves to others on social media can send stress levels soaring. A spa visit gives you the perfect excuse to leave your phone in your locker, remove distractions and truly disconnect from the outside world.

Feel the heat

Sauna bathing has been used for wellbeing for thousands of years. Dry heat helps to relax muscles, releasing tension you might not have been aware of. It improves circulation, promoting oxygen flow and nutrient delivery around your body. Saunas also trigger the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers.

women in wooden sauna looking out the window

Be soothed by steam

Steam rooms also offer numerous benefits for stress reduction. The moist heat helps to open up pores and cleanse the skin, promoting detoxification, whilst the warm, humid environment soothes tired muscles and joints. Steam also alleviates congestion and promotes easier breathing, creating a sense of calmness.

lava sauna with red lighting and tiered benches

Wash away your worries

Taking a dip in a pool is more than just exercise—it's a form of therapy. The water supports your body and relieves stress on your joints, and the heat relaxes your muscles. Doing a few gentle lengths can lower stress, as the repetitive nature of swimming encourages mindfulness, whilst hydrotherapy jets massage away tension and leave you feeling invigorated.

Let nature revitalise you

Simply spending time in nature has a calming effect on us, and it can work wonders for our mental health. Focusing on what you can see, hear and feel in the natural world around you helps you to feel grounded and present. Listen to the birdsong, watch leaves rustling in the breeze, breathe in the scent of pine and feel the bubbles on your skin.

Woman resting on the edge of an outdoor hot tub

Reconnect with your loved ones

Spas can provide a wonderful shared experience for you and your loved ones. Whether it’s mother-daughter bonding time, a couple’s retreat or a catch up with an old friend, the spa setting is an escape from the everyday that brings you closer together. Enjoy meaningful conversations, laughter and simply enjoying each other’s company, and feel instantly better.

Plan a spa escape

With five spa locations across the UK, Aqua Sana Forest Spa is home to up to 25 spa experiences inspired by the natural world, and a range of luxurious treatments and therapies. Book your Spa Day or Spa Break today.

Spa Breaks

Leave the real world behind and escape to the forest on a spa getaway with an overnight stay and two full days of spa access.

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Mother and daughter standing on a balcony looking out to the forest.

Spa Days

Whether you're spending a full day or just a few hours with us, our Spa Days include access to all of the spa experiences, complimentary robe and towel hire, use of our luxury spa products and toiletries, and the opportunity to join our free Spa Wellbeing Sessions.

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