Travel Tip: Little Secrets About Soaking in Hot Springs You Should Know

Written/Compiled and Reported by Chen Guanxin, MOOK Scenic Spots Travel Life Network

 

As autumn winds blow, the cool weather ushers in the hot spring season. Whether you're planning to conquer all the hot springs in Taiwan or embark on a hot spring trip in Japan, the refreshing, cozy feeling you get after soaking is what everyone looks forward to the most. But how can you soak in hot springs in a healthy way? The following will introduce little secrets about soaking in hot springs that you should know, and show you how to enjoy a comfortable and healthy soak.

Although soaking in hot springs can relieve stress when you're physically tired, the timing of your soak shouldn't be taken lightly. First, it's common to plan a hot spring session after hanging out with friends, but you should avoid soaking right after a meal or drinking alcohol, as it may lead to indigestion or even cerebral hemorrhage. Additionally, soaking on an empty stomach, after staying up late, while hungover, after intense exercise, or when overly fatigued is not advisable, as it could cause dizziness, fatigue, shock, or insufficient blood supply to the brain.

 

When soaking in hot springs, many people compete to see who can stay in the longest or believe that the longer they soak, the better the effect. In reality, when you first start soaking, it's best to limit your time to 5–10 minutes. When you start to feel a bit sweaty, get out and relax by the pool before getting back in. As your body gradually adapts to the water temperature, you can slowly increase the soaking time—but it’s still best to keep it within 10–15 minutes. If the hot spring is very hot, you should reduce the soaking time. If you feel unwell during the soak, you should slowly get up, wait until you’ve adjusted, and then leave immediately—don’t continue soaking.

 

Soaking in hot springs causes your body to lose moisture, so it's important to drink water at appropriate times to replenish fluids.

 

Soaking in hot springs is generally thought to promote blood circulation and improve health, but it's not suitable for everyone. People with skin wounds, fungal infections, or contagious diseases should not soak in hot springs. Those with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, lung disease, or other chronic illnesses, as well as women before or after their menstrual period and pregnant women, are advised to consult a doctor first and follow medical advice when bathing. Additionally, seniors and those in poor health should soak with a companion rather than alone to avoid accidents.

 

 

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Travel Tip: Where Are Taiwan’s Four Major Hot Springs?

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