1. Fatigue is Not Suitable
When you feel fatigued, the most important thing is to get proper rest. Soaking in a hot spring immediately may actually increase the burden on your heart and lungs. Also, it is not advisable to soak in a hot spring within one hour after a heavy meal or drinking alcohol, when sleep-deprived, or after strenuous exercise.
2. Time is Limited
Since the water temperature of hot springs is mostly between 38°C and 42°C, slightly higher than body temperature, the soaking time should not exceed 10–15 minutes, and no more than three times a day, to avoid overloading the heart. Moreover, when in an environment below 30°C, the body can still dissipate heat through convection, radiation, and sweating. But once the temperature reaches above 36°C, the body can only rely on sweating to cool down. However, when submerged in water, sweat cannot evaporate, making it difficult for body heat to dissipate. Soaking for too long may lead to heatstroke.
3. Enter the Pool in Order
When entering a hot spring pool, do so gradually to allow your body to slowly adjust. Wet your body beforehand: dip your hand 30–40 cm into the spring to test the temperature, then ladle the spring water onto your legs, arms, and torso. When getting into the pool, stand and soak your legs first, then slowly immerse the lower part of your body (below the heart). Once you’ve adapted, gradually submerge the upper part of your body (above the heart) fully into the pool.
4. Exit the Pool Slowly
When leaving the pool, move slowly as well. Stand up gradually and wait until your body has adjusted before exiting the hot spring.
5. It’s Best to Take a Shower Afterwards
Although most hot spring operators recommend not showering immediately after soaking to allow the minerals in the water to remain on the skin for their skincare benefits, in reality, these minerals cannot penetrate the skin, so their lingering effect is minimal. Hot spring water varies in acidity or alkalinity depending on the geological region. To avoid skin irritation from acidic or alkaline substances in the water, it’s best to take a shower afterward.
6. Dry Your Body
After soaking, all your skin pores will be open and you will sweat profusely. At this time, you should quickly dry off your body and hair to avoid catching a chill.
7. Replenish Fluids
In a high-temperature environment, the body easily loses fluids. After soaking in a hot spring, you must drink plenty of boiled water to replenish lost liquids.
8. Rest for a While
After soaking in a hot spring, your metabolism speeds up, so you should not immediately engage in other activities, or consume alcohol or a large meal, as this may increase the body’s burden or cause indigestion. Instead, take some time to rest and relax to recover your energy.
The ingredients in alpha hydroxy acid skincare products may react adversely with hot spring water, so they should be used only after thoroughly cleansing your body.