Across our amenity spaces at our multi-family and condominium residences, we’ve incorporated 5-star spa-grade features to encourage wellness and relaxation. At 7180 Optima Kierland and Optima Kierland Apartments, our spa amenities include everything from our outdoor cold plunge pool to the hot spa, steam room, sauna and hydrotherapy area. Hydrotherapy refers to the medicinal use of waters, from hot tubs to immersive springs, infused with minerals and aromatic oils or herbs. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into hydrotherapy, from its history to its array of health benefits.

The History of Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy (also formerly referred to as hydropathy and water cure) dates all the way back to ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman civilizations. In Egypt, royalty bathed in essential oils and flowers, while in Rome, hydrotherapy was available to all in the form of communal public baths. China and Japan also have a recorded history of hydrotherapy techniques, with Japan most known for its hot springs, or onsen. 

In more modern history, hydrotherapy was the center of a spa tourism craze in 20th century UK and Europe. U.S. hydrotherapy centers have been around since the 1840s, when they were first introduced, and have since been involved into the modern iterations we know now. One modern form of hydrotherapy is cryotherapy, or cold water immersion, used by athletes and rehab clinics. 7180 Optima Kierland and Optima Kierland Apartments both feature cold plunge pools so residents can enjoy easy access to this treatment. There are countless other modern methods of hydrotherapy, used for both medicinal and recreational purposes, spanning from hot tubs to jet pools to mineral baths and beyond.

Health Benefits 

While hydrotherapy can be enjoyed recreationally, its medical origins mean that the treatment brings with it several health benefits. It’s known to increase blood circulation, which includes the important circulation of white blood cells in the body’s immune system. In addition to enhanced circulation, it also boosts endorphin production, resulting in strengthened immune systems, reduced inflammation, the healing of injured tissues and an overall boost in energy and wellbeing. The practice is also proven to reduce pain, inflammation and stress, and to improve sleep.

Wellness and health are important to us at Optima — and we know they’re important to our residents too. Whether you’re looking for a little healing power or a day of relaxation, we’re proud to offer spa amenities at each of our communities. Stay tuned for more spotlights on our other wellness-focused amenity spaces!