Heat Isn’t All Bad; The Benefits of Thermal Springs | Ep.45

Today, I had the opportunity to enjoy Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort.  I am not sure how many of you have ever gotten the chance to do something like this but, I highly recommend it. It’s kind of a funny experience. I have never been in a creek that was 109 degrees before so it threw my senses for a loop.  Anyone that knows me, knows I am a baby when it comes to cold water. I’m normally “that guy” squealing like a little girl when jumping in the water. Not the case today.  This place was unreal.

When we say thermal, we are really just saying hot.  In the sports world we often stray away from heat, scared of causing whatever our coaches and gym teachers warned about. However, besides helping to lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and decrease joint pain, there is a host of additional benefits. Check them out.

Thermal spring water facilitates healing in a number of important ways:

• Bathing in hot springs gradually increases the temperature of the body, thus killing harmful germs and viruses.

• Thermal bathing increases hydrostatic pressure on the body, thus increasing blood circulation and cell oxygenation. The increase in blood flow also helps dissolve and eliminate toxins from the body.

• Hot springs bathing increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, bringing improved nourishment to vital organs and tissues.

• Bathing in thermal water increases body metabolism, including stimulating the secretions of the intestinal tract and the liver, aiding digestion.

• Repeated hot springs bathing (especially over three- to four-week period) can help normalize the functions of the endocrine glands as well as the functioning of the body’s autonomic nervous system.

• Trace amounts of minerals such as carbon dioxide, sulfur, calcium, magnesium, and lithium are absorbed by the body and provide healing effects to various body organs and system. These healing effects can include stimulation of the immune system, leading to enhanced immunity; physical and mental relaxation; the production of endorphins; and normalized gland function.

• Mineral springs contain high amounts of negative ions, which can help promote feelings of physical and psychological well-being.

• The direct application of mineralized thermal waters (especially those containing sulfur) can have a therapeutic effect on diseases of the skin, including psoriasis, dermatitis, and fungal infections. Some mineral waters are also used to help the healing of wounds and other skin injuries.

 Today’s Prescription:

1. Relax…. Stow away this info, and use when appropriate

2. Continue Pull-up Program… Don’t forget about it… only 10 mins of your day!

Haven’t Started Yet?!?!?!? …… How To Begin The 30 Day Pull-up Challenge:

• If you’re using a band: Use a band setting that allows your max effort to be 8-9 reps (you found this yesterday) and begin at week 1.
• If your strict pull-up max is above 9 rep: Subtract 3 reps from your max effort and begin at the corresponding week (max effort 17 reps – 3 = 14; Begin at week 12: Rep scheme 14,9,8,8,7)
• Perform 5 sets separated by a comfortable rest (1-3 minutes).
• Perform each day, Everyday.  CONSISTENCY IS KEY!!!
• If you are failing consistently (2+ days in a row): DROP BACK 2 WEEKS and continue.